The term tune-up comes from a time when engines needed regular adjustment of points, timing and carburettors. Modern cars do not need tuning in that sense, but they do need scheduled maintenance, and timing it well keeps your car reliable and avoids inconvenient breakdowns.
What a tune-up means today
Today a tune-up usually refers to a service that includes items such as spark plugs, filters, fluids and a thorough inspection, along with a scan for fault codes. On most modern vehicles these items are built into the manufacturer’s service schedule rather than done as a separate job. Our log book servicing covers them at the right intervals for your model.
Follow your service reminder
The best time to service your car is when the manufacturer says it is due. Many Mercedes-Benz models display a service reminder that calculates the interval from time and distance. Booking as soon as the reminder appears, or slightly before, is ideal. Leaving a service well overdue is what causes problems.
Before summer
Melbourne summers put extra load on cooling systems and air conditioning. Late spring is a good time to have the coolant, hoses and air conditioning checked, so you are not caught out on the first hot day.
Before winter
Cold mornings are hard on weak batteries. Having the battery tested, wipers replaced and lights checked before winter helps avoid a flat battery on a cold morning.
Before a long road trip
If you are planning a long drive, book a check a week or two before you leave. That gives time to order parts if anything needs replacing. We check tyres, brakes, fluids, the battery and cooling system, and scan for stored faults.
When you notice a change
Do not wait for the next scheduled service if you notice rough running, a warning light, reduced fuel economy, new noises or a change in how the gearbox shifts. Early diagnosis usually means a smaller repair.
Before buying or selling
If you are selling, an up to date service history adds value. If you are buying, a pre-purchase inspection tells you what the car needs before you commit.
Book at a time that suits you
SS Autoworks in Truganina specialises in Mercedes-Benz and European vehicles. We are open Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm and Saturday 9am to 2pm. Call 0425 149 004 to book.
