Car Tune-Up Service
Keep your Ford running at peak performance with comprehensive tune-up services from our factory-trained technicians using genuine Motorcraft parts.
Proudly serving Brevard, Asheville, Hendersonville, Waynesville & Canton NC
Our Tune-Up Services
A proper tune-up restores engine efficiency, improves fuel economy, and prevents costly breakdowns down the road. At Mahon Ford, our Ford-certified technicians specialize in the complete range of Ford powertrains, including EcoBoost turbocharged engines, the 5.0L Coyote V8, and the 6.7L Power Stroke Diesel. Whether you drive an F-150, Explorer, Expedition, Ranger, Maverick, Bronco, Escape, Mustang, or Super Duty, we have the training and equipment to keep your engine performing at its best.
Spark Plug Replacement
Spark plugs are the foundation of reliable ignition. Our technicians install the correct plug type for your specific Ford engine. EcoBoost engines (2.3L, 2.7L, and 3.5L) require specialized iridium spark plugs designed to withstand higher combustion pressures from turbocharging. Naturally aspirated engines like the 5.0L Coyote V8 use platinum or copper plugs matched to factory specifications. Worn spark plugs cause misfires, rough idle, reduced fuel economy, and sluggish acceleration.
Ignition Coil Service
Modern Ford engines use a coil-on-plug (COP) ignition system with an individual coil mounted directly on each spark plug. Our Ford-certified technicians use advanced diagnostics to identify failing ignition coils that cause engine misfires, check engine lights, and power loss. We test each coil for proper resistance and output, replacing any weak or failed units with genuine Motorcraft ignition coils to restore smooth, complete combustion across all cylinders.
Fuel System Cleaning
Fuel system deposits rob your Ford of power and efficiency. EcoBoost engines with gasoline direct injection (GDI) are particularly susceptible to carbon buildup on intake valves, since fuel is sprayed directly into the combustion chamber rather than across the valves. Our fuel system cleaning service addresses carbon deposits, clogged fuel injectors, and dirty fuel rails. We restore proper fuel atomization and flow for improved throttle response, better fuel economy, and reduced emissions.
Throttle Body Service
The electronic throttle body controls airflow into your Ford engine and is critical for smooth idle and responsive acceleration. Over time, carbon deposits and oil vapors accumulate on the throttle plate and bore, causing rough idle, stalling, and hesitation. Our technicians perform thorough electronic throttle body cleaning followed by an idle relearn procedure using Ford diagnostic software to recalibrate the system for smooth, consistent idle and precise throttle response.
Tune-Up Maintenance Checklist
Every tune-up at Mahon Ford includes a thorough inspection of key ignition and fuel system components. Our Ford-certified technicians follow factory-recommended service procedures for your F-150, Explorer, Expedition, Ranger, Maverick, Bronco, Escape, Mustang, or Super Duty.
- Spark Plug Inspection & Replacement — Check electrode wear, gap measurement, and carbon fouling. Replace with correct Motorcraft iridium, platinum, or copper plugs per your Ford engine specifications.
- Ignition Coil Testing — Coil-on-plug resistance and output testing on all cylinders. Identify weak or intermittently failing coils before they cause misfires or catalytic converter damage.
- Fuel Injector Cleaning — Professional cleaning to remove deposits and restore proper fuel spray pattern and atomization. Essential for maintaining power and fuel economy on EcoBoost and Coyote engines.
- Throttle Body Cleaning — Remove carbon buildup from the electronic throttle body and perform idle relearn calibration using Ford IDS diagnostic tools for smooth, stable idle.
- PCV Valve Check — Inspect the positive crankcase ventilation valve for proper operation. A stuck PCV valve can cause oil leaks, increased oil consumption, rough idle, and elevated emissions.
- Engine Air Filter Replacement — Inspect and replace the engine air filter with a genuine Motorcraft filter. A clean air filter ensures proper air-to-fuel ratio, protecting turbochargers on EcoBoost engines and maximizing performance.
EcoBoost Direct Injection & Carbon Buildup
If you drive a Ford with an EcoBoost engine (2.3L, 2.7L, or 3.5L), you should be aware of a condition unique to gasoline direct injection (GDI) technology. In traditional port-injection engines, fuel is sprayed onto the back of the intake valves, which naturally cleans carbon deposits as the engine runs. However, in GDI engines like the EcoBoost, fuel is injected directly into the combustion chamber, bypassing the intake valves entirely. Over time, oil vapors from the PCV system and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) can leave carbon deposits on the intake valve stems and ports.
These carbon deposits restrict airflow into the cylinders, leading to rough idle, misfires, reduced power, poor fuel economy, and hesitation under acceleration. Left unaddressed, severe buildup can trigger check engine lights and cause significant drivability problems.
At Mahon Ford, we recommend periodic intake valve cleaning for EcoBoost-equipped vehicles. Our service options include walnut shell blasting, which physically removes hardened carbon deposits from the intake valves, and chemical cleaning treatments that dissolve lighter buildup. Our Ford-certified technicians will assess your engine's condition and recommend the most effective approach to restore full airflow and performance to your F-150, Explorer, Bronco, Ranger, Maverick, Escape, or Mustang EcoBoost engine.
Why Choose Mahon Ford for Your Tune-Up
Ford-Certified Technicians
Our service team holds Ford factory certifications and receives ongoing training on the latest Ford powertrains and diagnostic procedures. From the 2.3L EcoBoost in the Ranger and Bronco to the 5.0L Coyote V8 in the F-150 and Mustang, our technicians know your engine inside and out.
Genuine Motorcraft Parts
We use genuine Motorcraft spark plugs, ignition coils, filters, and components for every tune-up service. Motorcraft parts are engineered specifically for Ford vehicles and meet the same quality standards as the original parts installed at the factory, ensuring proper fit, function, and longevity.
Advanced Engine Diagnostics
Our service center is equipped with Ford IDS diagnostic tools capable of performing in-depth analysis on EcoBoost, Coyote, and Power Stroke engines. We can read Ford-specific fault codes, monitor live engine data, perform injector balance tests, and run automated system checks that generic scan tools cannot access.
WNC Mountain Driving Expertise
Driving through the mountains of Western North Carolina puts extra demands on your Ford's engine. Steep grades, elevation changes, and winding roads around Brevard, Asheville, and the Blue Ridge Parkway cause engines to work harder, accelerating spark plug wear and carbon buildup. Our technicians understand these local driving conditions and tailor tune-up recommendations accordingly.
Related Services
Explore more service options available at Mahon Ford to keep your vehicle running strong on the roads of Western North Carolina.
Service Center
Visit our full-service Ford service center for all your maintenance and repair needs, from routine oil changes to major engine work.
F-150 Oil Change
Regular oil changes with Motorcraft synthetic blend or full synthetic oil keep your F-150 engine protected between tune-ups.
Diesel Repair
Specialized 6.7L Power Stroke diesel service including fuel system maintenance, turbocharger inspection, and diesel exhaust fluid service for Super Duty trucks.
Schedule Service
Book your tune-up appointment online at your convenience. Choose a date and time that works for your schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I get a tune-up on my Ford?
Ford recommends spark plug replacement at intervals ranging from 60,000 to 100,000 miles depending on your specific engine and plug type. EcoBoost engines with iridium spark plugs typically follow a 60,000-mile replacement schedule due to the higher combustion pressures and temperatures of turbocharged operation. The 5.0L Coyote V8 with platinum plugs may go up to 100,000 miles. However, if you frequently drive in mountainous terrain around Brevard, Asheville, or Hendersonville, tow heavy loads, or make many short trips, your spark plugs and ignition components may wear faster. Our Ford-certified technicians can inspect your plugs and recommend the right interval for your driving habits.
What are signs my EcoBoost engine needs a tune-up?
Common signs that your EcoBoost engine needs a tune-up include rough or unstable idle, engine misfires or hesitation during acceleration, reduced fuel economy, a noticeable loss of turbo boost or power, and an illuminated check engine light. EcoBoost-specific symptoms of carbon buildup on the intake valves include a rough cold start that smooths out once the engine warms up, a slight stumble or surge at low RPM, and gradually declining performance over time. If you notice any of these symptoms in your F-150, Explorer, Bronco, Ranger, Maverick, Escape, or Mustang with an EcoBoost engine, schedule a diagnostic appointment at Mahon Ford.
Do you use genuine Ford/Motorcraft parts for tune-ups?
Yes. Every tune-up performed at Mahon Ford uses genuine Motorcraft parts, which are the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts designed and tested specifically for Ford vehicles. This includes Motorcraft iridium and platinum spark plugs, Motorcraft ignition coils, Motorcraft engine air filters, and Motorcraft PCV valves. Using genuine parts ensures proper fit, optimal engine performance, and maintains your Ford factory warranty coverage. Aftermarket parts may not meet the same specifications, which can lead to premature wear, misfires, or check engine light codes.
Mahon Ford — proudly serving Brevard, Asheville, Hendersonville, Waynesville & Canton NC.
Created August 4, 2026 by MM Dealer Advocates