All cars must be put through some general preventative maintenance steps to ensure they stay in good operating condition long into the future. So how do you know if your BMW needs a tune-up?
First, it’s important to specify what we mean by a “tune-up,” as the term itself is rather vague and doesn’t always include the same types of services. You can expect any tune-up offered by a BMW auto mechanic in Albuquerque, NM to include most of the basic services you need to check on the operation of your vehicle and to make sure there are not any big issues that might put you in need of more significant repairs. Tune-ups often do not include more significant maintenance—they generally include oil changes, new filters, replacing worn spark plugs, adding fluids and other minor tasks, though some mechanics also include routine maintenance on other parts of the vehicle.
So how do you know if your BMW needs a tune-up, especially if it’s not due for scheduled maintenance? Here are a few signs to look out for:
- Dips in your fuel economy: There are many factors that could cause poor fuel economy in a vehicle, and most of them can be resolved by simple vehicle maintenance steps you’d receive during a tune-up. Even just installing a new air filter can do a lot to improve the efficiency of your engine—allowing the engine to breathe and not have to work as hard will go a long way toward improving your fuel economy.
- Rough idling: Rough idling is usually characterized by sputtering noises or feelings in the engine. It might sound like the engine is about to die. You can check out the tachometer and watch the engine speed when you hear this noise, and the dial may quickly rise and fall. If you’re having problems with rough idling, then there’s a good chance you need to have some of your sensors cleaned, or have your spark plugs and wires replaced.
- Stalling: Does your engine suddenly turn off when you’re at a red light? This is obviously a very dangerous issue, as it prevents you from being able to drive your car and get it off the road. Other people sharing the road with you may not see you stalled in the middle of the street, which poses a high risk of an accident. If this happens to you, make sure to get your vehicle in for a checkup as soon as possible.
- Hard starts: If you have problems with starting up your car, you’ll want to make sure you have a skilled BMW auto mechanic in Albuquerque, NM take a look at the vehicle, as there are many issues that could be at the root of the problem, including bad starters and clogged fuel filters.
For more information about how you can tell if you need a tune-up for your BMW, we encourage you to contact Hans Wittler’s Automotive today. Our team is ready to get to the bottom of any issue with your BMW and have your vehicle running as good as new in no time.
