To most old-timers a tune up meant change the spark plugs, distributor cap, coil, rotor and points, and adjust the carburetor and engine timing. Well, most modern vehicles don't have most of these things to worry about and the Engine Control Module (ECM) handles most of the heavy lifting when it comes to how the engine runs. “Tune Up” simply means making "any" adjustments to make sure the entire vehicle operates at peak efficiency. A car tune up at Saskatoon Auto Connection is all about taking care of your car’s overall health so that it runs smooth on the road. Regular scheduled tune ups and maintenance is the best way to protect your investment.

If you tell us that you want a tune up then we will ask you about any problems and symptoms that you are facing with your car before advising any repair or service to you. This process is no different than a visit to the doctor. Auto Connection technicians are really vehicle doctors and surgeons and we will expertly recommend the appropriate remedy. We are able to provide all other auto repair services in Saskatoon and also perform out-of-province inspections. We are an SGI accredited inspection station.

When do you need a tune up?

It basically depends on your vehicle. First thing you should do is to check your owner’s manual for information about the recommended maintenance schedule. If you are unsure, or do not have an owner's manual, give us a call and speak to one of our knowledgable service advisors.

Most vehicles on the road today are modern fuel-injected vehicles with computer chips, high-tech sensors and advanced diagnostic and engine management systems. The remaining older vehicles still in use that do not have an electronic ignition system should have a tune up service every 19,000-22,000 kms or every year whichever comes the first.
There are some modern vehicles can go up to 48,000-160,000 kms without a tune up but it is still essential for them to have a tune up service at regular intervals to avoid problems.

Spark Plugs

A spark plug is a critical component for running your engine. If your spark plug is worn out then it is going to misfire your engine. Spark plugs have a metal tip on the top which wears down over time due to electrical current and high amounts of heat. Whenever replacing the spark plugs it is highly recommended to use original equipment with excellent build-quality.

Ignition Wires and Cables

Ignition wires are the wires that connect the ignition coil and distributor to the spark plugs to complete an electrical circuit. If your vehicle is an older one and equipped with spark plug wires or ignition wires, then it is recommended to check them every time you replace spark plugs. Ignition wires will break down over time and simply fail. Once your ignition wires fail, then you may encounter significant performance loss and rough idle. The experts mechanics at Saskatoon Auto Connection can tell you when it's time to replace the ignition wires.

Engine Air Filter

Air Filters are important to change frequently for better fuel efficiency, engine health and your health. The engine air filter will filter thousands of litres of air for every litre of fuel used. Replacing your engine air filter is simple and relatively inexpensive for most vehicles. Call and make an appointment at Saskatoon Auto Connection for an engine air filter replacement and our technicians will take care of it. Clogged Air Filters can reduce fuel mileage by 2-6% and increase harmful emissions at the tailpipe.

Cabin Air Filter

Most newer cars are equipped with a cabin air filter which helps control dust, pollen, mold spores and pollutants from entering the vehicle cabin. If the cabin air filter is clogged, then it may allow these harmful things to enter the cabin and your lungs and make you feel unwell. It can also make the HVAC system less efficient and have to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. Replacing the cabin air filters take around 20 minutes or less (some vehicles have more than one). Make an appointment at Saskatoon Auto Connection for cabin air filter replacement. We recommend having them replaced at least every 12 months or sooner.

Fuel Filter

Fuel filters makes sure that the fuel going into your engine is clean. Due to dirt and other impurities in fuel, the filter clogs up over time. It can contribute to premature fuel pump failure. Call and make an appointment at Saskatoon Auto Connection for a fuel filter replacement.

PCV Valve

The Positive Crankcase Ventilation Valve (PCV) will get clogged by carbon buildup over time. Sometimes results in a higher air/fuel ratio. It is easy to replace and only takes a short time to do in most vehicles. Call and make an appointment at Saskatoon Auto Connection to have your PCV valve checked and replaced.

Belts, Idlers, Pulleys and Tensioners

Belts transfer all the energy from the engine to other useful components like the air conditioner compressor, water pump, power steering pump, alternator and so forth. If the belts wear out or fail then all components driven by them will fail to function. Idlers, pulleys and tensioners align, guide and ensure proper travel and tension of the belts as they wind around the driven components. Over time belts, bearings and tensioner springs wear and they need to be changed immediately to prevent any damages to the other components. Make an appointment at Saskatoon Auto Connection to get these checked and replaced as necessary.

Hoses

Hoses transfer all the major fluids in your vehicle's systems. If hoses fail to work, then the important fluid transfer also fails and may cause damage. Call and make an appointment at Saskatoon Auto Connection to have your hoses checked and replaced.

Fluids

There are many different fluids that your vehicle relies on to keep it operating safely and at peak efficiency. Engine oil, coolant, power steering fluid, brake fluid, automatic transmission fluid (ATF), washer fluid and AC refrigerant are all critical to the operation of the vehicle. All of these fluids have limited lifespans and will require changing or replacement at some point. Call Saskatoon Auto Connection to have your fluids checked and maintained or replaced as necessary.

And remember VIP members receive generous discounts on labour and parts which means a significantly lower repair bill when compared to competing shops.