These days an automotive tune-up isn't a big deal, but they still charge big money for it $300-600+ in most places.  Here is the dirty secret-- Modern vehicles are pretty much self tuning based on their computers. So what is a modern car DIY tune up?  Pretty much the following:

• New spark plugs-- $3 per plug on the low end
• New spark plug wires-- $25 for the set on the low end
• New ignition coils (If equipped)-- $25-100 each (May not need frequent replacement, but you will usually need half as many of the number of cylinders)
• New distributor rotor and cap (If equipped)-- about $15 on the low end

My advice is always read your owner's manual and recommended service schedules and follow them to a tee.

So if it is time for a tune-up here is what you need:

• Correct type and number of spark plugs
• Correct wire set
• Ignition coils or distributor parts
• Socket/torque wrench and possibly extenders
• Spark plug sockets
• Spark plug wire grippers
• Spark plug gap coin
• Tube of anti-seize dressing
• Tube of dielectric grease
• Masking tape and a marker
• Disposable gloves
• Old work clothes
• Rags

Next:

• Turn off vehicle
• Open the hood
• Disconnect the battery
• Use the tape and marker to label the wires (1 thru "x" number of cylinders) at the plugs while they are still connected to the coils or distributor cap
• Check that the spark plugs are gapped correctly using the gap coin
• Use the spark plug wire grippers and one by one remove the wire and remove and replace the spark plugs
• Treat the threads of each new spark plug with a little of the anti-seize dressing (This will help you the next time your replace the plug)
• Put a dab of dielectric grease in the holes on either side of the wires (non-conducting moisture protectent) firmly seat them
• Swap out the coils or distributor cap and be sure the wires have been labeled and correctly placed
• Reconnect the battery
• Close the hood
• Put away the tools

Now go for a test drive (The first time you drive the car it may act a little funny as the computers reset the various systems-- don't get worked up, it won't be long (5-15 miles) before it runs better than before).

It is VERY important not maintain the wiring order-- I can't emphasize this enough.

The entire job should run 30-90 minutes, barring any major complications getting at some spark plugs. My in-line engines (I4 and I6) are easy 30-45 minute jobs, my wife's mini-van, a V6, requires the removal of the wipers and wiper tray which adds 30-45 minutes to the job (I hate that vehicle! It goes before the end of 2012).

There are a few other items that you might replace in a tune up, but I will address them in another post on "Check Engine" lights.

Assuming you don't need coils, the cost of this tune up is under $100 in parts and about one hour of your time.

Finally, I highly recommend you become familiar with your owner's manual and strongly recommend getting the Haynes Auto Repair and Maintenance manual for your vehicle.