Interstate Automotive Blog

Keeping your engine in great condition is essential for reliable performance and long-term value. Neglecting engine maintenance can lead to costly repairs, poor fuel-economy, and even complete engine failure. Fortunately, consistent care can keep your engine running smoothly for many miles to come. Here are four basic maintenance tips that will help preserve your engine’s long-term health. Change the Oil and Filter Regularly Oil is essential for lubricating the engine’s moving parts and preventing excessive wear. Over time, oil breaks down and becomes contaminated with dirt and debris, which can cause friction and damage. Following the manufacturer’s recommended oil change schedule is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your engine. Always replace the oil filter during each oil change to ensure your engine receives clean, effective lubrication. Replace the Air Filter When Needed Your engine needs a clean air supply for efficient combustion. A clogged or dirty air filter restricts airflow, making the engine work harder and reducing fuel-efficiency. Replacing the air filter at regular intervals helps maintain optimal performance and protects your engine from harmful contaminants. Stay on Top of Spark Plug Maintenance Spark plugs ignite the air-fuel mixture inside the engine’s cylinders, playing a vital role in engine operation. Worn or fouled spark plugs can cause misfires, rough idling, and reduced fuel-economy. Depending on your particular vehicle and spark plug type, spark plugs typically need to be replaced somewhere between 30,000 to 100,000 miles. Keeping them in good condition helps ensure efficient combustion and smooth engine performance. Address Warning Signs Early If your check engine light comes on, your engine starts making unusual noises, or you notice a drop in performance, don’t ignore the symptoms. Small issues can quickly become major problems if left unchecked. Regular inspections and timely repairs are key to keeping your engine running strong for years to come. Engine Repair & Maintenance in Olympia, WA For an experienced mechanic 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!

It’s incredibly frustrating to turn your key, only to find that your car is struggling to fire up. A car that struggles to start is not only inconvenient, but can also be a warning sign of underlying mechanical issues that need immediate attention. At Interstate Automotive, our local mechanics are experts at diagnosing and resolving problems that cause no-start. Here are four common reasons why cars struggle to start. Weak or Failing Battery One of the most frequent causes of startup issues is a battery that’s low on power or nearing the end of its life. Batteries tend to degrade over time, especially in extreme weather conditions. If you hear a clicking noise or the engine cranks slowly, your battery may not be delivering enough voltage to start the car. Corroded terminals or a loose battery connection can also prevent proper power flow. Testing and replacing the battery when needed is a simple and cost-effective way to restore reliability. Worn Out Starter Motor The starter motor is responsible for turning over the engine when you initiate ignition. If the starter motor is faulty, your engine may not crank at all. This issue often presents as a single click or no sound at all when you try to start the car. Since the starter is essential for engine ignition, a malfunctioning unit will likely require replacement to get your car back on the road. Fuel Delivery Issues Without proper fuel delivery, your engine can’t start. Problems with the fuel pump, clogged fuel filter, or a failing fuel injector can prevent the engine from getting the fuel it needs to smoothly fire up. If your car cranks but doesn’t catch, or it starts and immediately stalls, a fuel system issue may be to blame. Ignition System Problems Faulty spark plugs, ignition coils, or wiring issues in the ignition system can interfere with your engine’s ability to ignite the air-fuel mixture. If spark plugs are worn or misfiring, the engine may crank but fail to start smoothly or consistently. Keeping up with scheduled spark plug replacements and inspections helps maintain a dependable ignition system. Auto 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!

Your vehicle’s transmission is one of its most important components, responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. If the transmission isn’t properly maintained, it can lead to costly repairs or even a complete failure. Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to help extend the life of your transmission and keep your vehicle performing at its best. Shift Smoothly and Responsibly One of the easiest ways to protect your transmission is to shift gears carefully. Whether you're driving a manual or an automatic, avoid aggressive acceleration or sudden shifts from drive to reverse or vice versa. Abrupt gear changes put unnecessary stress on internal components and can cause premature wear. If you drive a manual, be sure to match your engine speed with the correct gear to reduce strain. Avoid Overloading Your Vehicle Overloading your vehicle can significantly increase the strain on your transmission. Towing more than your vehicle’s rated capacity or hauling heavy loads on a regular basis makes the transmission work harder to deliver power. Excessive weight increases heat and pressure, which can lead to overheating. Always follow the manufacturer’s weight limits to avoid putting your transmission under undue stress. Keep an Eye on Warning Signs Your transmission will usually give you clues when something isn’t right. If you notice delayed shifting, slipping gears, grinding noises, or unusual vibrations, these could be early signs of a problem. Addressing transmission issues early on can often prevent more extensive damage and costly repairs. Stay on Top of Fluid Changes Transmission fluid plays a critical role in lubricating moving parts, regulating temperature, and enabling smooth gear shifts. Over time, the fluid can become dirty, reducing its effectiveness. Check your owner’s manual for the recommended service interval and have the fluid changed as needed. Schedule Regular Inspections Even if your vehicle seems to be running fine, it’s wise to have the transmission inspected during regular maintenance appointments. Mechanics can identify potential issues before they become serious and ensure that fluid levels, seals, and filters are in good condition. Preventive care can help your transmission last beyond the average lifespan. Transmission Service in Olympia, WA For transmission service in Olympia and the surrounding area, contact Interstate Automotive at  360-505-7292  . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment !

A road trip can be one of the most enjoyable ways to explore new places and spend quality time with loved ones. However, before you hit the highway, it’s essential to make sure your vehicle is ready for the journey ahead. Even if your car seems to be running fine, a pre-trip inspection by a mechanic can help prevent unexpected problems and keep your adventure on track. At Interstate Automotive, we provide expert auto maintenance in the greater Olympia area. Here are four reasons to schedule a vehicle inspection before heading out on a road trip. Prevent Unexpected Breakdowns It’s very frustrating to be stranded on the side of the road in an unfamiliar area. The mechanic can spot potential issues—such as worn belts, low fluids, or battery problems—that might lead to a breakdown. Catching and fixing these problems early can save you from major inconveniences, tow truck expenses, and delayed travel plans. Maximize Road Safety Safety should always be the top priority when planning a long drive. A professional inspection includes checking critical systems such as the brakes, tires, suspension, lights, and steering. These components are vital to keeping you and your passengers safe on the road. Even minor issues like uneven tire wear or low brake fluid can pose a danger when traveling at high speeds or on unfamiliar terrain. A mechanic’s trained eye can help ensure everything is working as it should. Improve Fuel-Efficiency When your vehicle is properly maintained, it runs more efficiently. A pre-trip inspection can uncover simple fixes that improve fuel-economy, such as replacing a dirty air filter or inflating the tires to the correct pressure. These small adjustments can make a big difference over a long journey, helping you save money at the gas pump and reduce your environmental impact. Helps You Enjoy a Stress-Free Trip One of the best reasons to have your car inspected before a road trip is the peace of mind it provides. Knowing that a professional has looked over your vehicle and given it a clean bill of health allows you to enjoy your journey without constantly worrying about what could go wrong. With your car in reliable condition, you can focus on making memories and enjoying the ride. Auto Maintenance in Olympia, WA For auto maintenance in Olympia and the surrounding area, contact Interstate Automotive at  360-505-7292  . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!