We recommend regular vehicle maintenance if you don’t already commit to routine servicing near Tumwater. This will prevent the need for expensive auto repairs down the line. The following auto maintenance tips are good advice to heed in order to get the most out of each service appointment.

Track Mileage Checkpoints

You should schedule auto servicing whenever you reach certain mileage points on the odometer. The exact mileage points will differ based on the model and year. The vehicle user manual should specify what these mileage intervals are.

Make an Appointment Every Season

It’s also a good idea to arrange for maintenance at least once per season. we especially recommend this during the summer and winter seasons. Due to the extreme temperatures, your vehicle may be more susceptible to damage during these times of the year. Even relatively minor temperature shifts can tax vital car components.

Change Drivers

Another good tip is to let someone else drive your car. You can do this by asking a trusted friend or neighbor to drive the vehicle around the block. Car problems arise gradually over time. If you drive your car every day, then you may not quite notice them, whereas problems will be immediately noticeable to someone driving your car for the first time.

Auto Maintenance Tips for All Car Owners Near Tumwater

These auto maintenance tips near Tumwater ensure that problems don’t arise to the level where they require expensive repairs or rebuilds. Contact Interstate Automotive Inc. in Olympia to make an appointment today. Our many specialties include RV repair and diesel engine servicing. We have the industry knowledge to perform all work to strict protocols. Make routine maintenance sessions a regular affair to ensure automobile health and longevity.

Auto Maintenance Tips Near Tumwater

Serving Olympia, Lacey & Tumwater

Posted on September 20, 2022 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

Do you own a vehicle with mileage at or near the six-digit range? This makes your vehicle a high-mileage automobile. The good news is that most modern vehicles can still operate reliably even as you rack up the miles. However, in order to maintain solid performance, you have to adhere to yearly auto maintenance at a certified auto service center. Here is a list of services that should be addressed by a technician for your high-mileage car.

Brakes

Failing brakes can be a grave safety liability. A mechanic should perform an annual check of the brake components, which includes parts like the rotors, pads, and brake fluid. Compromised brakes put you and the people you share the road with in a dangerous peril.

Battery

Older cars also have older batteries if you don’t frequently replace them. A yearly check should include a visual inspection of the terminals for corrosion. An auto repair center can also replace the battery if a voltage check reveals low power. 

AC System

Older cars are more likely to have AC troubles, which can make summer commuting borderline hellish. A mechanic will perform an inspection of integral AC parts like the compressor, condenser, and evaporator coil.

Schedule Yearly Auto Maintenance Near Lacey

Do you have a vehicle that has quite an amount of miles under its belt? This makes it more imperative that you follow a yearly auto maintenance routine near Lacey. Begin by contacting the pros at Interstate Automotive for a professional assessment of your automobile. We also perform maintenance of high-mileage RVs and diesel vehicles. Whatever the case, if your vehicle has accrued miles ranging in the six-digit range, don’t hesitate to contact us for an appointment.

Yearly Auto Maintenance Near Lacey

Serving Olympia, Lacey & Tumwater

Posted on August 20, 2022 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

Do you suspect you may need a car battery replacement? The battery will usually give you signs it’s on the brink of failure. To avoid a dead battery, bring your vehicle in for auto service in Olympia if you notice the following symptoms.

Engine Cranks Slowly

When you turn the ignition, is it taking longer than normal to crank? If you notice a sluggish engine, the battery may be low on power. Bring your vehicle to an auto repair shop to perform a voltage test on the battery. If the cranking causes the battery to die altogether, then you’ll need to arrange for towing to get the car to an auto shop.

Check Engine Light is On

Did the check engine light come on? The check engine light can indicate a number of problems, among which is a dying battery. A technician will need to perform a diagnosis to determine the underlying problem. 

Battery Case is Swelling

Does the battery case appear swollen or bulging from the sides? This is a clear giveaway that you need a new battery. A swollen battery case is especially common during temperature extremes in the summer and winter. This is a sign of molecular changes taking place within the fluids inside the battery cell.

Need a Car Battery Replacement in Olympia?

Is your battery exhibiting signs of low juice? It’s time for an appointment with the pros at Interstate Automotive Inc. in Olympia. A car battery replacement is essential to ensure your car doesn’t fail to start in the most inopportune moment. We can perform a voltage check; based on the results, we can charge the battery or replace it. Leave it to us to get your car back on the road in no time.

Car Battery Replacement in Olympia

Serving customers in Olympia, Lacey & Tumwater

Posted on July 20, 2022 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

Is your vehicle in need of service? Finding a reliable auto repair service in Tumwater isn’t always easy, considering there are dozens of automotive shops in the area. It’s hard to identify which shops provide excellent quality. To simplify your search, here are some tips to help you locate a reputable auto service.

High Customer Satisfaction Rating

A good way to identify a high-quality shop is to read reviews from past customers. Avoid shops that have too many negative reviews or have no reviews at all. Auto shops with zero reviews are likely still new. Shops with too many bad reviews likely have quality assurance issues. 

Free Estimates

An auto shop should be able to provide an estimate at no cost or for a very low fee. Some companies do charge a small price especially if inspections require removing and reinstalling parts to locate the problem. Whether you need transmission repair or a spark plug replacement, never agree to repairs without acquiring an estimate in writing.

Parts and Labor Warranties

Inquire whether repairs come with a warranty or a money-back guarantee. This is especially important in repairs requiring replacement parts. This is a financial safety net in the event the same problem arises not long after repairs. 

Need Reliable Auto Repair Near Tumwater?

Have you been scouring the Web for reliable auto repair near Tumwater? The above tips will help you find a company that you can trust and rely on time and again. Contact Interstate Automotive Inc. in Olympia to make an appointment for an initial vehicle inspection. We examine all vehicle types, including RVs and diesel trucks. Our shop is equipped with industry-standard equipment. Rest assured our team will provide accurate and timely diagnosis and repairs.

Reliable Auto Repair Near Tumwater

Serving customers in Olympia, Lacey & Tumwater

Posted on June 20, 2022 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

Are you searching for auto repair in Lacey, Washington, at a low cost? Perhaps you need general maintenance or specific services like transmission repair. Either way, it’s important that you avoid overpaying for auto repair. However, this can be easier said than done since price ranges can be all over the place. This is why you should always perform research before settling with an auto shop. Here are some tips to guide you along your search.

Look Up Local Averages

Research the cost for the maintenance or repairs you need in your specific locality. Price points can vary even between neighboring counties. If you need diesel repairs, for example, then research the cost of this service within your county. Don’t look up the cost in a city two counties over.

Schedule Consultations

An estimate over the phone is not the most reliable. The only way to get an accurate quote is to schedule an appointment at a shop. Once the mechanic performs an inspection, he/she will be able to determine the labor and parts required. The shop will then be able to provide the estimate in writing. The initial inspection should be free or available for a small fee.

Compare Your Options

Even though the goal is to look for affordable auto services, you shouldn’t necessarily go with the shop with the lowest cost. If company A has a more solid reputation than company B, then it may be worth choosing company A even if it charges slightly more than company B.

Are You Overpaying for Auto Repair Near Lacey?

Were you or have you been overpaying for auto repair near Lacey? It may be time to switch to another automotive shop. Contact Interstate Automotive Inc. in Olympia for vehicle service that’s reliable and affordable. Our services are diverse and include RV repair and other specialty work among others.

Avoid Overpaying for Auto Repair Near Lacey

Serving customers in Olympia, Lacey, & Tumwater

Posted on May 20, 2022 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

Are you searching for a reputable auto shop in Olympia, Washington? Perhaps you require auto maintenance or auto repair services. Either way, it’s essential to adequately prep for the pending appointment. Here are some repair preparation tips to follow to ensure a smooth process at the auto maintenance shop.

Clean Out Your Vehicle

As your appointment nears, be sure you clean the vehicle cabin. It doesn’t have to be spotless, but you should actively remove clutter. This is the courteous thing to do and makes the mechanic’s job easier. Remove anything in the seats, dash, or floor that may get in the way.

Have Questions Ready

You’re likely to have questions regarding your vehicle’s problems. Prepare your questions in advance. Often, people have multiple questions and end up forgetting to ask some of them. Writing your questions down ensures you get all of your inquiries answered by a qualified professional at the shop.

Ask for an Estimate

Most shops provide an estimate free of charge. However, it’s also acceptable for shops to charge a small fee, especially if the technician has to remove some parts to diagnose the issue. In any case, you should always get a quote in writing with a breakdown of the cost according to parts, labor, etc.

Make Auto Repair Preparation in Olympia

Do you notice issues in your vehicle that requires professional diagnosing? Make an appointment with Interstate Automotive Inc. in Olympia today. Our services are expansive and include transmission repair and diesel engine maintenance among others. Our crew has the qualifications, hands-on experience, and the tools of the trade to perform all repair work to the highest industry standards. Some repair preparation on your end will also make the process run more smoothly for all parties involved. 

Auto Repair Preparation in Olympia

Serving customers in Olympia, Lacey, & Tumwater

Posted on April 20, 2022 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

Spring is in full bloom. This means a shift in weather. This is a time of year to make new changes. Make this the season of car care by bringing your vehicle in for spring auto maintenance. Here are some auto services that we recommend as part of spring vehicle care.

Fluids Check

Fluids gradually evaporate even when not in use. They may also leak through an opening in the hoses. Schedule maintenance with a mechanic to examine your fluid levels and top them off if low. It’s especially a good idea to perform a motor oil check and a possible oil change before summer.

Tire Inspection

Tire health is especially important now that temperatures are rising. A mere 10-degree increase in temperature is enough to affect tire pressure. Check the psi of each tire to confirm they’re at least within five psi of the manufacturer’s recommended psi. Be sure to also check the treads for excessive wear and balding.

Battery Check

Have a technician perform a voltage check on the battery. Temperature fluctuations can stress the battery fluids. With winter over and spring in full swing, the battery may abruptly fail, especially if you had it for several years. Battery care can offset major auto repairs. It also ensures you don’t end up stranded because your car refuses to start.

Need Spring Auto Maintenance Near Tumwater?

Are you ready to schedule spring auto maintenance for your car or truck near Tumwater? Make an appointment with Interstate Automotive to bring your vehicle to our shop. Our technicians will perform the appropriate examinations and perform tune-ups where necessary. Aside from conventional automobiles, we also perform repair work on diesel vehicles. Make this spring the season to give your car the extra attention it deserves.

Spring Auto Maintenance Experts Near Tumwater

Serving customers in Olympia, Lacey, & Tumwater

Posted on March 20, 2022 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

How familiar are you with your car or truck Near Everson, Washington? More specifically, if there was a malfunction, would you be able to address the issue? You don’t have to have the degree of mechanical knowledge as a professional technician. However, you should be able to take care of fundamental automotive tasks at least to some degree on your own. Here are some of these tasks motorists of all backgrounds should know.

Changing a Tire

All it takes is driving over a nail or sharp object to end up with a flat tire. Do you know how to remove the flat tire and replace it with a spare tire? If you have never changed a tire, or it has been years since the last time you did it, take some time to practice in your garage. Not being able to change a tire may result in having to call a tow service.

Replacing Windshield Wipers

Most parts replacements should be left to an auto service. However, windshield wipers are one of the items that car owners can replace themselves. Windshield wipers are also inexpensive and available at your local auto store. Most wipers have changing instructions on the package. Practice removing the existing wipers and putting them back in place. Continue Reading →

An overheating engine mid-commute can happen suddenly and be a distressing situation in Olympia, Washington. If smoke is blowing out of the hood, then the vehicle clearly needs attention from an auto technician. However, what do you do at the moment right as you begin noticing smoke? Learn how to properly respond when the engine gets too hot.

Turn the Car Off

The first thing to do is to pull over when safe to do so and turn off the car. Preferably, this should be at a parking spot, though you may have to settle for the side of the road. Some people may be tempted to locate the nearest auto service station. However, don’t do this if it means driving longer than necessary. Continue Reading →

Do you suspect your vehicle may have a worn transmission? Depending on the age of your vehicle, it may need an entire transmission replacement. Continuing to drive with a worn transmission can result in further damage, not to mention it’s a serious safety liability. Bring your vehicle in for auto repair near Ferndale, Washington, the minute you spot the signs of a failing transmission. Here are the signs to watch out for.

Slipping Clutch

If you own a vehicle with a manual transmission, then you’re familiar with operating the clutch and how it works. This mechanism is what enables drivers to change gears when picking up or decreasing speed. When the clutch fails, or “slips,” shifting gears won’t feel as smooth. In some instances, repairs are doable, though in other instances, the entire transmission needs to be replaced. Continue Reading →