Auto Repair & Maintenance, Transmission & Engine Services in Olympia, Tumwater, & Lacey, WA and the Surrounding Areas

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Auto Repair & Maintenance, Transmission & Engine Services in Olympia, Tumwater, & Lacey, WA and the Surrounding Areas

SERVICE REQUEST >

We provide expert full-service auto repair in Olympia.

SERVICE REQUEST >

Comprehensive car care to keep your vehicle in excellent condition.

SERVICE REQUEST >

Our local mechanics specialize in fixing complex engine and transmission issues.

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• Full-Service Auto Repair

• Brake Repair

• Exhaust Repair

• Suspension Repair

• Scheduled Auto Maintenance

• Oil Changes

• Electrical

• Check Engine Lights

• Diesel & Gas Engine Repair

• Transmission Repair & Rebuilding

• Clutch Repair & Replacement

• RV Chassis Service & Repair

Full-Service Auto Repair Shop

Interstate Automotive is a full-service auto repair shop in Olympia, WA that specializes in engine and transmission services in South Puget Sound. Our expert technicians have extensive experience with a variety of routine automotive services, such as factory maintenance, tune-ups, and oil changes. We’re also highly skilled with more complex tasks, such as engine repair, transmission repair and rebuilding, and RV chassis service and repair in the greater Olympia area. Our local auto shop is equipped with top-quality diagnostic and repair equipment so we can handle every job efficiently. Our computerized diagnostic tools allow us to quickly identify the issue so we can get right to work on fixing it. We understand how important it is for you to get your car back as soon as possible, and we strive to complete every job promptly without ever compromising on quality. As proud members of the Olympia small business community, it’s our mission to do right by our neighbors and complete every task to the highest standards.

Get the Job Done Right the First Time

From oil changes to intricate transmission rebuilds, our local mechanics work diligently to get the job done right the first time. At Interstate Automotive, we’ve been serving the Olympia area for over 42 years. We know that our customers rely on their cars, trucks, vans, SUVs, and RVs to keep them safe as they navigate daily commutes and memorable road trips. That’s why our Olympia mechanics are meticulous about identifying and addressing any issues that could compromise safety or performance. With a long list of satisfied customers, you can count on us to provide top-quality auto repair and maintenance in Olympia, Tumwater, and Lacey, WA. When you need car care in South Puget Sound, don’t hesitate to give our team at Interstate Automotive a call at 360-505-7292 to make an appointment. Our team looks forward to providing you with expert auto repair at fair rates!

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Interstate Automotive Reviews

Interstate Automotive Blog

Why it’s Worth Having Your Vehicle Professionally Inspected Before a Road Trip

By Interstate Automotive • May 20, 2025
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!

What caused my check engine light to come on? Here are 5 common triggers

By Interstate Automotive • April 16, 2025
Seeing your check engine light illuminate on the dashboard can be alarming, but it doesn’t always mean your car is about to break down. The check engine light is designed to alert you to potential issues that range from minor to major. Addressing the problem early can prevent more costly repairs and keep your vehicle running smoothly. At Interstate Automotive, we provide expert check engine light diagnostics and repair in the greater Olympia area. Here are five of the most common reasons your check engine light may turn on. Faulty Oxygen Sensor Your car’s oxygen sensor monitors the level of unburned oxygen in the exhaust and helps regulate the air-fuel mixture. A failing oxygen sensor can lead to poor fuel-efficiency and increased emissions. Replacing a faulty oxygen sensor as soon as possible helps maintain fuel economy and engine performance. Malfunctioning Mass Airflow Sensor The mass airflow (MAF) sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine and helps adjust fuel injection accordingly. A malfunctioning MAF sensor can cause poor acceleration, rough idling, and reduced fuel-efficiency. If the sensor fails, the car may even stall or have trouble starting. Worn or Failing Spark Plugs and Ignition Coils Spark plugs and ignition coils play a crucial role in igniting the fuel mixture in your engine. When these components wear out, your car may experience misfires, rough idling, or difficulty starting. Replacing spark plugs and ignition coils at the recommended intervals helps ensure smooth engine operation. Failing Catalytic Converter The catalytic converter reduces harmful emissions by converting pollutants into less toxic gases. A failing catalytic converter can lead to poor fuel-efficiency and reduced engine performance. With a bad catalytic converter, you might notice a smell similar to rotten eggs. Loose or Faulty Gas Cap One of the simplest and most overlooked reasons for a check engine light is a loose or faulty gas cap. The gas cap helps seal the fuel system. If it’s loose or missing, fuel might evaporate before your engine gets the chance to run on it. Check Engine Light Repair in Olympia, WA For engine 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!

Is my car leaking transmission fluid? Don’t ignore these 5 warning signs

By Interstate Automotive • March 22, 2025
Your vehicle’s transmission relies on fluid to keep its components lubricated and running smoothly. When a transmission fluid leak occurs, it can lead to serious mechanical issues, costly repairs, and even complete transmission failure if left unchecked. At Interstate Automotive, we provide expert transmission fluid leak repair in the greater Olympia, WA area. Here are five signs that your vehicle may be losing transmission fluid. Puddles of Red Fluid Under Your Car One of the most obvious signs of a transmission fluid leak is a puddle of red or brown fluid forming beneath your vehicle. Transmission fluid is typically bright red when fresh, but it can turn darker brown as it ages. If you notice an oily spot in your driveway or garage, it’s important to determine whether it’s transmission fluid or another type of automotive fluid. If you suspect a leak, have a professional inspect your vehicle to locate and repair the source of the problem. Difficulty Shifting Gears Low transmission fluid levels can lead to sluggish, rough, or delayed gear shifts. Transmission fluid plays a vital role in creating hydraulic pressure for smooth gear changes, so difficulty in shifting could be a warning sign of a possible leak. Burning Smell Coming from the Engine If you detect a strong burning odor while driving, it could be due to overheating transmission fluid. When fluid levels drop due to a leak, the remaining fluid may overheat as it struggles to keep the transmission cool and lubricated. If this issue is not addressed quickly, it can cause severe damage to the transmission. Unusual Noises While Driving A healthy transmission should operate smoothly and quietly. If you begin to hear whining or grinding sounds, it could be a sign that your transmission fluid is low due to a leak. These noises typically indicate that metal components within the transmission are not receiving adequate lubrication, leading to increased wear and tear. Transmission Slipping or Hesitation Transmission slipping occurs when the transmission fails to stay in the correct gear, causing a sudden loss of power or erratic shifting. This can be especially dangerous when driving at higher speeds or merging onto highways. When transmission fluid leaks, the hydraulic pressure needed for proper gear engagement diminishes, leading to slippage or hesitation. Transmission Repair in Olympia, WA For transmission 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!
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