How often does a 1996 Ford Mustang need a tune up?

Question

My last tune up was at 125K, and I am now at 169K. 

Also, when I attempt to accelerate onto an expressway, I usually hear a rattling sound coming from the engine block area.  My car is also sluggish when trying to merge onto the expressway.  What could that rattling sound and the sluggishness be a symtom of, and how much would it cost to fix?  If it makes any difference, my last oil change was about 3K ago. Thanks!

ruskinflgator · Accepted Answer

It has platinum plugs, they should be replaced every 60, 000 miles. Fuel filter should be changed annually, and if it starts to restrict fuel flow, it can cause the engine to ping up[on acceleration. Also, the MAF sensors tend to get dirty and can be cleaned. Check the data stream out of the PCm,if the BARO PID reads anything different from the normal barometer reading for your area, most likely the MAF is contaminated. 
Another common problem for the pinging and lack of power is a DPFE sensor out of range. Have THAT PID checked also. Going down the road, it should read over 2.5 volts, depending on the amount of "on" time the computer is demanding of the EGR valve. That sensor bad is also a major cause of engine ping on acceleration.

Anonymous · Answer

Of course you need a tune up. It sounds like your spark plugs and wires are just about to die..

We change our plugs and wires every 20k miles which is about every year.. Your car is sluggish because your spark plugs are burnt up. and they cant provide the right amount of power or "spark" to give you that brisk acceleration that Mustangs offer

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How often does a 1996 Ford Mustang need a tune up?

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