How much is a tune-up???

[Jenny]

I have a stick shift, 1997 Ford Contour (smaller version of a Taurus) and it failed my state's inspection. It failed on catalytic efficiency. So, I went and got a quote from a guy who does catalytic converters and he said it'd be about $420. But, he said a tune-up might fix the problem (if the computer is just reading out the error and something else is messed up instead). He didn't give me an estimate on a tune-up because he doesn't do them. My car has 230-300k miles on it (but it runs well and gets descent mileage). Anyone have an idea of what a tune-up might cost?

[CarlosM]

well i took mine and it cost me around $1500, but that really depends on the car... i have an 1989 Acura Integra LS

[mitcht]

It varies, but if you do it yourself you would only be out about 30-45 dollars for parts. A lot of oil change places will also do a tune up for a small amount. Parts and labor should be around 100-150 dollars, at least where I live.

[LC]

Thats a fare price if it includes wires and spark plugs

[HungN]

try do it yourself save a lot of money.

[badspeller]

tune-up roun 200.00

[DruM]

Screw the tune up. Get the catylitic convertor if it needs it (bout 90 to 150) but let me tell you aside from that what will help. Obviosly the cars computer settings are a little off. Disconnect the battery for a couple of hours. Thus it will have to relean good operation manners (such as propper combustion) but NOT BEFORE adding 3 ounces of KLEAN STRIP ACETONE per ten gallons and 3 ounces of KLEAN STRIP XYLENE (see Home Depot). Also get PRI-G fuel treatment. For emmisions the stuff is unreal. www.priproducts.com / and buy it at http://www.nitro-pak.com/product_info.php?products_id=1038 Youll fly past the emission test!!! Gaurenteed~

[mblov87]

Starting around $150 dollars, but no more than $275. I don't think the tune up will cure the problem. Replace the cat Converter. Look for another place, $420 is too much. You shouldn't pay more than $325

[BOOM88]

O2 sensors could be out. Don't get new catalytic converters. Not worth the money.  Let the environmentalist cry and go hug some more trees.  Or better yet make them do the labor. Sorry, back to the point.  If you haven''t had a tune up for a while then go ahead and get one. Shop around some places to get the best deal.  There is ways around it if none of the less expensive stuff works.  There is no reason to spend alot of money because some tree hugger like (Al  Gore) people wanna cry.  I'm just trying to say there are ways to get it past inspection (at least get the slip).

[bigmikeumpire]

Take this car to Midas and have them install a new catylatic converter.......just had one installed on a 94 cavalier last fall parts and labor $240.00......Midas is reasonable and very reputable.....

Dont trust any mechanic who guesses on how to fix your car!!!!!

[Feels]

I assume you really means 300k miles, and not 300k km. This does implies the age of catalytic converter might need to change. However, if you would like to start cheap, try check and change the following in sequence:

1. Engine oil and oil filter, if you have not change after 3k miles. Flush the engine

2. Air filter. Ensure it is clean. Replace if dirty

3. Spark plug. Check and replace if require

4. Clean distributor cap. Ensure not crack and fully functional

5. Spark plug cable. Ensure no crack and current leak

6. Acetone suggested by Dru M can clean up fuel system indirectly as well. Try add in and drive for half tank. Cost is about $6

7. If all done, and still failed catalytic efficiency, replace catalytic converter. Save the environment is every human being's responsibility



My 1992 Honda Prelude nearly fail catalytic efficiency as well. Tried all 6 solution above, and finally replace it with high flow catalytic converter