Your vehicle’s braking system is crucial for safe driving, and when it begins to show signs of trouble, it's essential to address them quickly. Ignoring brake problems can lead to costly repairs, or worse, put you and others on the road at risk. At Interstate Automotive, we provide expert brake repair in the greater Olympia, WA area. Here are five common signs of a brake issue that mean it's time to visit the mechanic. Squeaking or Squealing Noises One of the first signs of a brake problem is a high-pitched squeaking or squealing noise when you apply the brakes. This is often caused by a worn-down brake pad, which includes a small metal indicator designed to create this noise as a warning. Grinding Sounds If you hear a grinding noise when you press the brake pedal, it’s typically a sign that your brake pads have completely worn away, and the metal parts of the brakes are now rubbing against each other. This not only reduces braking efficiency, but can also damage the rotors, leading to more costly repairs. Grinding sounds should be addressed immediately to prevent further damage. Vibrations when Braking When you press the brake pedal and feel a vibrating or shaking sensation, it often points to warped rotors. Warped rotors create an uneven surface, causing the brakes to pulse when you slow down. This vibration can affect your control over the vehicle, so having the rotors resurfaced or replaced will help ensure smooth and safe braking. Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal A soft or spongy brake pedal, one that sinks closer to the floor when pressed, can indicate an issue with the brake fluid or the brake lines. This can happen if air gets into the brake lines or if there’s a leak in the brake fluid system. Without sufficient fluid pressure, your brakes won’t be as effective. This is a serious safety concern and should be checked immediately by a professional. Car Pulls to One Side When Braking If your car pulls to one side when you apply the brakes, it may be due to a stuck caliper. A vehicle that doesn’t stop in a straight line can be difficult to control and increases your risk of an accident, making it important to address this issue ASAP. Brake Repair in Olympia, WA For auto repair in Olympia, WA and the surrounding area, contact Interstate Automotive at  360-505-7292  . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

Proper wheel alignment is essential for maintaining control over your vehicle, optimizing fuel-efficiency, and promoting even tire wear. Misalignment can result from regular driving, hitting curbs or potholes, or after an accident. Ignoring the warning signs can lead to bigger issues, so it’s important to promptly address misalignment. At Interstate Automotive, we provide expert wheel alignment in the greater Olympia area. Here are four signs that it’s time for a wheel alignment. Your Car Pulls to One Side One of the most noticeable signs of misalignment is when your car consistently pulls to one side of the road. If you're driving on a flat, straight surface and you have to keep adjusting the steering wheel to stay in your lane, your wheels may well be misaligned. This pull can be subtle or strong, depending on how severe the alignment issue is. Uneven Tire Wear When your wheels are out of alignment, it affects how your tires contact the road. Misaligned wheels often cause uneven tire wear, meaning one side of the tire will wear down faster than the other. Regularly checking your tire tread can help you spot this early. Uneven wear can lead to reduced tire life, meaning you'll need replacements sooner than expected. Steering Wheel Is Off-Center Your steering wheel should naturally return to a straight, centered position when driving straight. If you notice that your steering wheel is crooked or off-center even when driving on a straight road, it’s a good indication that your wheels need alignment. This issue not only affects your driving comfort, but also your vehicle's overall handling. Vibrating Steering Wheel A misaligned suspension or wheels can cause your steering wheel to vibrate. While a vibrating steering wheel can also indicate other issues, alignment should be checked if this symptom arises. Wheel Alignment in Olympia, WA For wheel alignment in Olympia and the surrounding area, contact Interstate Automotive at  360-505-7292  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly address your car’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!