Car tune-up checklist

Motor oil lubricates moving parts, reduces friction, and prevents overheating in your engine. However, motor oil breaks down and loses its effectiveness with time. To prevent wear and tear on the engine, regularly check the motor oil and replace it when necessary.

Most cars require an oil change every 8,000 to 12,000 km, but check your owner’s manual for the specifics on your model.

To check the motor oil, use the dipstick to inspect the oil level and colour. If the oil is dark and gritty, it’s time for a change.

Depending on climate and engine type, you will need either conventional, synthetic, or high mileage motor oil. Since synthetic oil performs better and is recommended for most Canadian climates.

Filters play a vital role in keeping your engine and cabin clean. Nobody wants a clogged filter: it reduces airflow. For cabins, this means stale air and possible issues with the car’s HVAC system. For engines, dirty filters reduce performance.

Engine air filters require a change every 15,000 to 25,000 km, more frequently in dry climates. The cabin air filter should be replaced every 20,000 to 30,000 km to keep the heater and AC working.

Winters can be tough on spark plugs. Warning signs of a faulty spark plug include rough idling, sluggish acceleration, difficulty starting up in winter, or increased fuel use. On average, spark plugs need replacing every 50,000 to 100,000 km, depending on your vehicle. Iridium and platinum spark plugs perform best in extreme temperatures, lasting longer for Canadian drivers.

In addition to motor oil and windshield washer fluid, plenty of other fluids keep your vehicle operating safely. During your car’s tune-up, check in on the following fluids for peak performance and safety.

To check the coolant, wait until the engine is cool, and locate the coolant reservoir. This fluid should be between the minimum and maximum lines. Next, inspect the colour: if it’s a rusty brown or sludgy colour, replace the coolant.

In most vehicles, check the transmission fluid while the engine is warm and running. Remove the transmission dipstick, usually located at the rear of the engine, wipe it clean, and slowly re-insert it all the way.

Remove the dipstick again and inspect the fluid level and colour:

• The dipstick will have markings for “full,” “low,” and “fill.” If you need to top up your transmission fluid, use only what the manufacturer recommends.
• Healthy fluid will be a bright, red or pink colour. Dark, brown, or black colouring can indicate it’s time for a transmission fluid change.

Should your fluid have a healthy colour but lower levels, you may have a leak in the transmission system. Have it assessed by a professional right away.

Locate the brake fluid reservoir and inspect the colour and fluid level. A dark or dirty fluid indicates a need for replacement. If the fluid level is below the minimum line, top it up.

Examine the power steering reservoir, inspecting for colour and fluid level. Power steering fluid should appear a light amber or red. Dark and dirty fluid will need replacement.

Checking in on your brakes during a tune-up can help prevent accidents and improve safe stopping. Replace your brake pads if they’re under 4 mm thick, examine the rotors for deep grooves and warping, and, as previously mentioned, flush any dark brake fluid to stay in control of your brakes.

If a tire’s tread depth is below 1.6 mm, replace all four tires. Using 7°C as a benchmark for your seasonal tire changes is crucial for tire lifespan and road safety. Summer, all-season, and winter tires use different compounds, making each type more suitable for its respective season.

Cold weather can drop your tire pressure, and summer heat can cause overinflation. Check your tire pressure once a month and top up your tires with air as needed.

Change your motor oil, replace air and cabin filters, top off fluids, inspect brakes, and keep an eye on your tires’ condition and pressure. A regular tune-up helps you stay on top of many important issues. The benefits? Improved safety, engine efficiency, and cost of ownership.

Have questions? Our NAPA Auto Store  technicians are always happy to share advice on regular car maintenance.