Interstate Automotive Blog

Regular oil changes are one of the most important aspects of vehicle maintenance. Motor oil keeps the engine running smoothly by lubricating its moving parts and reducing friction. Over time, oil breaks down and becomes less effective, which can lead to serious engine problems. Staying current with oil changes helps ensure that your vehicle runs efficiently and lasts longer. At Interstate Automotive, we provide oil changes in the greater Olympia area. Here are four reasons why keeping up with oil changes is essential. Prevents Costly Engine Damage Engine components move at high speeds and generate significant heat. Without clean and effective oil, these parts can wear out quickly due to increased friction. Old, dirty oil loses its lubricating properties and can lead to overheating and engine failure. The cost of an oil change is minimal compared to the expense of repairing or replacing an engine. Staying on schedule with oil changes helps protect one of the most vital and expensive parts of your vehicle. Improves Fuel-Efficiency When oil becomes old and sludgy, the engine has to work harder to perform its functions. This extra effort means the engine consumes more fuel, leading to decreased gas mileage. Clean oil allows the engine to operate efficiently, helping you get the most out of every gallon of fuel. By keeping up with regular oil changes, you can save money at the gas pump. Enhances Engine Performance A well-lubricated engine runs more smoothly and efficiently. Over time, dirt, debris, and sludge build up in the oil, causing the engine to work harder and reducing performance. Fresh oil keeps internal parts cleaner, allowing them to function better. This leads to smoother driving and improved vehicle performance. Keeping up with oil changes helps ensure that your engine operates at its best for as long as possible. Maintains Warranty and Resale Value Many vehicle warranties require regular oil changes as part of the maintenance agreement. Failing to follow the recommended service schedule could void your warranty, leaving you responsible for costly repairs. Also, if you ever plan to sell your vehicle, a well-documented maintenance history, including regular oil changes, can increase its resale value. Prospective buyers are more likely to pay a higher price for a car that has been well cared for. Oil Change in Olympia, WA For auto maintenance 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!

Your vehicle's suspension system plays a critical role in enabling smooth and safe driving. It absorbs shocks from the road, maintains tire contact with the pavement, and supports proper steering control. But as they get older, components of the suspension system can wear out or get damaged, leading to noticeable issues. Recognizing the warning signs early can prevent more significant problems. At Interstate Automotive, we provide expert suspension repair in the greater Olympia area. Here’s a look at five signs of suspension trouble. Excessive Bouncing or a Rough Ride If you start feeling every bump and dip in the road, your suspension may be to blame. A properly functioning suspension system should settle quickly after bumps. Worn-out shocks or struts can make your vehicle feel excessively bouncy or unstable, especially when driving over uneven surfaces. Drifting or Pulling During Turns When your car leans heavily to one side during turns, it’s often a sign of worn-out suspension components. A failing suspension system can no longer keep the vehicle stable, making it harder to maintain control during sharp turns, which can pose a safety risk. Uneven Tire Wear When the suspension system isn't holding the car evenly, it can cause inconsistent tire contact with the road. This can lead to one side of the tire wearing out faster than the other. If you notice unusual tread patterns or bald spots on your tires, it’s time to have your suspension checked. Nose Diving When Braking If the front end of your vehicle dips excessively when you hit the brakes, it’s a sign of worn shocks or struts. A healthy suspension system should keep your car balanced during sudden stops. Nose diving can increase stopping distances and reduce braking efficiency, putting you at greater risk of accidents. Strange Noises When Driving Over Bumps Unusual noises—such as clunking, knocking, or squeaking sounds—are often associated with suspension problems. These sounds usually occur when driving over rough terrain and may indicate worn-out bushings, broken springs, or damaged shock absorbers. Suspension 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 for car care in Olympia!

The alternator is a vital component of your vehicle’s electrical system, responsible for keeping the battery charged and powering essential systems like the headlights, radio, and air conditioning. When the alternator starts to fail, it can lead to a host of issues that compromise your car’s performance. At Interstate Automotive, we provide expert alternator replacement and auto electric repair in the greater Olympia area. Here are five common signs that your alternator is malfunctioning. Dashboard Warning Light If your alternator is failing, a warning light shaped like a battery or labeled ALT or GEN may illuminate. This light commonly means that the alternator is not supplying sufficient power to the battery. While it might seem like a minor issue, ignoring this warning can lead to a total loss of power, leaving you stranded. It’s best to have your alternator inspected when this light appears. Dimming/Flickering Lights Since the alternator powers the vehicle’s electrical system, a failing alternator may struggle to keep the lights at full brightness. You might notice your headlights dimming or flickering. Interior lights may also be affected, becoming noticeably weaker than usual. These lighting issues indicate that your vehicle is not receiving enough electrical power, and it’s a sign that the alternator may need attention. Weak or Dead Battery A weak or dead battery can often be traced back to alternator problems. While batteries do wear out over time, if your battery dies frequently or struggles to hold a charge, the alternator may be to blame. The alternator is responsible for charging the battery while the engine is running, and a failing alternator will eventually leave the battery drained. Electrical Accessory Problems A failing alternator can cause various electrical components to malfunction. You might notice that power windows move slower than usual, the radio cuts out intermittently, or the air conditioning doesn’t work as efficiently. These issues occur because the alternator is no longer providing enough power to keep all the electrical systems functioning properly. Unusual Noises Strange noises coming from under the hood can be a sign of alternator trouble. Grinding or whining sounds may suggest that the bearings inside the alternator are worn or that there is an issue with the belt. Paying attention to any unusual sounds and addressing them promptly can often prevent more extensive damage. Alternator Replacement & Auto Electric Repair in Olympia, WA For auto repair in Olympia and the surrounding area, contact Interstate Automotive at  360-505-7292  . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

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!