tune up
Mechanic's routine service
A tune-up is maintenance performed on an engine to restore optimal performance—adjusting timing, replacing spark plugs, checking filters.
The term extends to any preparatory adjustment: The orchestra tuned up before the concert.
To tune up can also mean to begin singing or playing, or to warm up before physical activity.
Replacing engine lubricant
- spark plugsDevices creating engine combustion
- timing beltEngine valve regulator
- filterPorous separation device
- brakesDevices for stopping motion
coolant · transmission · diagnostics · inspection · mechanic · garage · service · fluids
Frequency of sound
- scalesPlates or weighing devices
- practiceRepeated work toward mastery
- rehearsalPre-performance practice session
- intonationPitch variation in speech
voicing · instrument · strings · ear training · tempo · arpeggios
Adjusting for measurement accuracy
- tweakingSlight adjustment process
- regulationOfficial rules governing conduct
- synchronizationAligning timing across systems
- optimizationMaximizing efficiency or performance
alignment · balancing · correction · modulation · configuration · trimming · customization · setting
Increase in quality
- upgradeRaise to higher standard
- refinementElegance of manner
- optimizationMaximizing efficiency or performance
- boostUpward push or increase
revitalization · restoration · overhaul · rejuvenation · renewal · conditioning · preparation · sharpening
oil change
Replacing engine lubricant
- spark plugsDevices creating engine combustion
- timing beltEngine valve regulator
- filterPorous separation device
brakes · coolant · transmission · diagnostics · inspection · mechanic · garage · service · fluids · air filter
pitch
Frequency of sound
- scalesPlates or weighing devices
- practiceRepeated work toward mastery
- rehearsalPre-performance practice session
intonation · voicing · instrument · strings · ear training · tempo · arpeggios
calibration
Adjusting for measurement accuracy
- tweakingSlight adjustment process
- regulationOfficial rules governing conduct
- synchronizationAligning timing across systems
optimization · alignment · balancing · correction · modulation · configuration · trimming · customization · setting · recalibration
enhancement
Increase in quality
- upgradeRaise to higher standard
- refinementElegance of manner
- optimizationMaximizing efficiency or performance
boost · revitalization · restoration · overhaul · rejuvenation · renewal · conditioning · preparation · sharpening · readiness
- car repairoil change, brake job, spark plugs, brake pads, tire rotation
- car talkpedal to the metal, hit the gas, step on it, floor it, burn rubber
- travel idiomshit the road, in the same boat, miss the boat, end of the road, crossroads
- improvementget better, improvement, do better, enhance, make progress
- preparationprepare, preparing, ready, readies, readiness
- upgradesupgrade, enhancement, boost, improvement, advancement
tune upbreak down
Fail mechanically or emotionally
fall apart · deteriorate · malfunction · wear out · go to pieces
up, tune, tuning, tunes, tuner, tuned, tune-up, attuned, tuners