Modern engines have very different needs than the engines of yesteryear. Once, a truck tune-up was a frequent need to keep your engine working at top performance. Today, the computer takes care of many of these systems for you, making truck tune-up less essential. The computer monitors the fuel mixing, the idle speed and the ignition timing. Now, if you want your engine to run better, you may need to have your spark plugs changed periodically, but the meaning of a truck tune-up has changed.
If you have someone who manages your fleet maintenance, these are some of the things they will probably do to make your engines run better:
- Check the oxygen sensors and change when needed.
- Monitor the fluid levels, look at any hoses and belts and replace as needed.
- Periodically change fuel and air filters.
- Perform computer diagnostic tests to check systems and correct any issues that are indicated.
- Replace spark plugs to improve engine starting, gas mileage and engine power.
- Check the voltage of your battery and replace as needed.
With modern engine performance analysis capabilities, much of this checking will involve scanning for fault codes and using a computer to evaluate system components like the idle speed and engine timing. Gone are the days when a mechanic would drive your truck around listening to how it sounded to make a diagnosis. This can save you money because you can pinpoint the exact problem before you start replacing parts. Of course, the computer can also malfunction, so if you are concerned about your truck, take it to a professional for diagnostics and repair right away.