Auto Sport North

If you have the space and the skills, it is an excellent idea to perform a regular tune- up on your car. Most manufacturers recommend a tune up, or major service, every two years or 30,000 miles, whichever comes first. The following operations are usually recommended:

• Visual inspection of the braking system
• Visual inspection of the wheels and suspension components
• Engine coolant strength check
• Brake fluid check
• Engine oil and oil filter replacement
• Air conditioning pollen filter replacement
• Check the condition and tension of driving belts
• Check battery fluid level in the case of non-sealed batteries

By maintaining your car properly you may prevent many problems from arising. For example, worn spark plugs can cause the engine to misfire, and filters can become clogged and slow the flow of air or fuel to the engine. You probably already have many of the tools you will need for the tune up but some specialised equipment will simplify and speed up your project.What equipment do I need to do to tune up my car?

1. Ratchet and socket setNeeded to loosen and remove spark plugs. Halfords have an excellent selection of socket sets and ratchets.
2. Set of screwdriversUsed for loosening and retightening screws on items that need to be removed and then replaced.
3. Torque wrenchYou will need this to tighten spark plugs and other items to the manufacturer’s specifications.
4. Electrical GreaseAs the name implies, this conducts electricity and is used to prevent electrical contacts from rusting.
5. Extendable mirrorSet on a flexible wire rod, this mirror allows you to see into all areas of the engine.
6. Cordless LED magnetic lampYou can clamp a magnetic lamp to the underside of the car bonnet to illuminate the engine area clearly. take a look at the range from the RAC shop.
7. Vehicle moverWhen you are working in a confined space, a vehicle mover makes moving your car both easier and safer. Ergonomically-designed vehicle movers mean that you can move large vehicles without the need to start them, even when working single-handed.
8. Tablet or laptop with cameraThe internet is a useful resource to research vehicle manuals, and a camera is handy to take photos of your car engine as you dismantle parts. You can then refer to the photos when putting everything back to ensure things go in the right order.