Skip to content
Open 7 days · 11 AM – 10 PM
Tire & LubeNorth York · Toronto
Mechanic using a ratchet on an engine

Maintenance

Tune-Up

Spark plugs, ignition coils, filters and a code scan to sort out rough idle, misfires, hard starts and falling fuel economy.

Time in the shop
Usually 1–2 hours for most four-cylinder engines, longer for some V6s
How often
By your owner's manual
Before we start
Written quote, your approval

A tune-up on a modern car isn't what it was 30 years ago. There are no points to set or carburetors to adjust, and the engine computer handles timing and fuel mixture. What's left is replacing the parts that wear: spark plugs, and often ignition coils, air filters and the PCV valve.

We start by scanning for stored codes and checking live data such as fuel trims and misfire counts. That tells us whether the engine has a specific problem, not just old parts. Then we replace what's due by kilometres or condition, following your manufacturer's schedule.

Some V6 engines have the rear spark plugs under the intake manifold, which adds labour. We'll tell you up front if yours is one of them.

Why it matters

01

Easier starts in the cold

Worn plugs need more voltage to fire. On a −20 °C morning with a tired battery, that can be the difference between starting and not.

02

Misfires damage the converter

Unburned fuel from a misfiring cylinder overheats the catalytic converter. A weak coil or plug costs far less to fix than a converter.

03

You notice it at the pump

Worn plugs, a clogged air filter and carbon on the throttle body each cost a little fuel. Over a year of commuting it adds up.

Signs it's time

  • Rough or shaky idle
  • Hesitation or stumbling when you accelerate
  • Hard starting, especially on cold mornings
  • Check engine light, steady or flashing
  • Fuel economy has dropped
  • Spark plugs past the interval in your owner's manual

What's included

  • Code scan and live data check
  • Spark plugs replaced to manufacturer spec
  • Ignition coils and boots tested, replaced if failing
  • Engine air filter replaced
  • Cabin air filter checked
  • Throttle body cleaned where needed
  • PCV valve checked or replaced where serviceable
  • Test drive to confirm the fix

How often

By your owner's manual

Spark plug intervals range from around 50,000 km to over 150,000 km depending on the engine and plug type. Air filters usually need replacing more often.

Tune-Up questions

Book tune-up in North York

Book a time online and we'll call to confirm, or just come by — we're open every day until 10 PM.

Open 7 days · 11 AM – 10 PM

CallBook appointment