Like many other car-related expenses, the price of Nissan vehicle service will change depending on where you live and the mechanic you choose. Plus, the price of a Nissan tune-up varies greatly by model.

The

Rogue

is one of the more affordable cars, with a tune-up costing around $304

The larger

Pathfinder

costs nearly double at $528 per tune-up

How to find the cheapest rate: Do a little comparison shopping and get quotes from at least three different mechanics before making your choice. Or, if you’d prefer a tune-up where you know your mechanic will only be using Nissan-certified parts, you can always head down to your

local Nissan dealership

A Nissan tune-up usually focuses on the engine

This service is intended to help your engine run smoother and for longer. Here’s what you can generally expect from your tune-up:

Inspection and replacement of spark plugs, ignition wires, and ignition coils

Inspection and replacement of engine fluids

Engine vacuum test to check for air leaks

Engine oil and engine filter change

Inspection and replacement of engine belts, hoses, and fluid lines

A battery voltage check

Exhaust emissions check to make sure that your car complies with EPA standards

An OBD scan for fault codes

Although tune-ups are primarily intended to help your engine, some mechanics may also offer tire rotations and non-engine-related services during a tune-up.

Additional services may include:

Air filter replacement

Brake fluid top up

Coolant top up

Transmission fluid check

Brake pads visual check

Ask about these extra services if you want them—and be aware these extras will likely be reflected in your bill.

MORE:

Complete car tune-up checklist

How often should I get a Nissan tune-up?

Frequency: Every 5,000 miles or every six months, whichever comes first

Staying on top of your Nissan’s recommended

basic car maintenance schedule

is the best way to not only help your car drive longer but nip any more extensive (and expensive!) repairs in the bud. Confirm this service schedule in your owner’s manual.

But the six-month rule is by no means written in stone. Sometimes, you may need to take your Nissan in for a tune-up a little ahead of schedule if your car is telling you there’s a problem.

Signs you may need a tune-up:

An illuminated

check engine light

Decreased fuel economy

Less pickup when accelerating

Trouble starting your car or other problems with your car’s electrical system

Weird noises from underneath the hood

MORE: How to tune up a car yourself

Tuning your Nissan improves performance and prevents major problems

There are three key reasons to get a tune-up:

Improve performance: The better you take care of your engine, the more it can do for you. You’ll get better gas mileage, for one thing, and greater power when driving.

Prevent major breakdowns: Sure, it can feel like a pain in the rear to take your car in for tune-ups twice a year, but it sure as heck beats the cost you’d have to pay for a brand-new engine.

Stay safe: If your engine is regularly being checked on by a pro, the less likely it is you’ll suffer a car breakdown away from home.

How much does it cost to maintain a Nissan?

Cost: $500 annual maintenance cost

According to RepairPal, the average Nissan owner spends $500 a year on maintenance and car repair costs. That’s a cool $152 lower than the industry average of $652 per year!

Although some Nissan models skew above the $500 average, all of Nissan’s five most popular 2022 models are below the industry average for yearly maintenance costs:

Nissan Altima

: $526

Nissan Versa

: $456

Nissan Sentra

: $491

Nissan Pathfinder

: $542

Nissan Rogue

: $467

What’s covered under Nissan’s complimentary maintenance plan?

Every new Nissan comes equipped with a factory warranty that includes:

3-year/36,000-miles limited bumper-to-bumper warranty.

5-year/60,000-mile limited powertrain warranty

3-year/36,000-mile roadside assistance

If you’re looking for extra added peace of mind—and protection for your Nissan—you can always purchase an extended warranty to keep your car protected for longer.

MORE: How to decide if you need a bumper-to-bumper car warranty

How to keep Nissan maintenance costs down

Nissan service yearly maintenance costs are already fairly low, but here are some of our favorite tips to help keep them that way:

Practice safe driving: Careful driving makes for a cared-for car! You can keep your tires, engine, and suspension in prime condition by accelerating slowly, making careful turns, and avoiding bumpy roads.

Keep up with maintenance: It can be a little irksome to pay for a series of smaller repairs, but it’s much cheaper in the long run than total engine failure.

Learn a few DIY repairs: A repair shop might charge you around $50 for an oil change, but with the right car tools and supplies and a little determination, you can do it for free in your garage.

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