At Legacy Automotive, we often hear customers in Boulder say: “I think my car needs a tune-up.” It’s a phrase that’s been around for decades, but here’s the truth—the traditional tune-up doesn’t really exist anymore.

Back in the days of carburetors and distributor caps, tune-ups were a regular part of keeping a car running. But with today’s technology, things have changed. Modern vehicles are more reliable, computer-controlled, and require different kinds of care.

The Old-School Tune-Up

Years ago, a tune-up often included:

• Replacing spark plugs and ignition points
• Adjusting ignition timing and dwell angle
• Cleaning or rebuilding the carburetor
• Setting fuel and air mixtures

This was routine every 12,000–20,000 miles. But now, electronic fuel injection and onboard computers handle most of those adjustments automatically.

The Modern “Tune-Up” at Legacy Automotive

When Boulder drivers ask for a tune-up today, what they really need is scheduled maintenance. Here’s what that looks like at Legacy Automotive:

• Spark plugs: Replacement at 60,000–100,000 miles, depending on manufacturer specs.
• Ignition system checks: Coils and wires inspected and replaced if failing.
• Fuel system service: Cleaning injectors and intake valves to prevent carbon buildup—especially important at Colorado’s high altitude.
• Filters: Engine air filters and cabin air filters replaced regularly to keep engines breathing and cabins comfortable.
• Fluid services: Oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and more replaced on schedule.
• Battery & charging system: Tested for reliability in Colorado’s hot summers and freezing winters.
• Computer diagnostics: Checking for trouble codes and ensuring sensors like O2 and MAF are performing correctly.

In short, it’s less about “tuning” and more about comprehensive maintenance that keeps your vehicle running at peak performance.

Why People Still Say “Tune-Up”

The word has stuck around because it’s a simple way to say: “My car isn’t running quite right, and I think it needs some attention.” At Legacy Automotive, when you ask for a tune-up, we translate that into a full inspection and a personalized maintenance plan for your vehicle.

The Legacy Automotive Difference

Here in Boulder, we understand how Colorado’s unique driving conditions—altitude, steep canyon roads, cold winters, and hot summers—affect your vehicle. That’s why our approach to maintenance is tailored to local conditions.

So, while the classic tune-up may be a thing of the past, at Legacy Automotive, we make sure your car gets the modern service it needs to stay reliable, efficient, and ready for every Colorado adventure.

👉 Schedule your modern tune-up—aka preventative maintenance—at Legacy Automotive in Boulder today, and keep your car running strong for the road ahead.