5 Signs That Your Car Needs Engine Repair

Interstate Automotive • September 20, 2024
A car with its hood open in a garage

Engine issues often escalate quickly, making it important to get to the shop at the first sign of trouble. At Interstate Automotive, we provide expert engine repair in the greater Olympia area. Here’s a look at five warning signs that you need engine repair.


Check Engine Light Is On

One of the most common signs that your car needs engine repair is when the check engine light comes on. This light serves as an early warning system that something isn't right under the hood. While it doesn't necessarily mean there's currently a catastrophic issue, ignoring it could lead to more severe damage, so it's important to get your vehicle checked as soon as possible.


Strange Noises

If you start hearing unusual sounds coming from your engine, it's often a sign of trouble. Knocking, tapping, or grinding noises can indicate a variety of engine issues, including worn-out bearings or insufficient lubrication. These noises are a strong indication that your engine needs professional attention.


Discolored/Excessive Exhaust Smoke

The color and quantity of your car's exhaust smoke can give you valuable clues about your engine's health. Blue smoke indicates that oil is burning. White smoke suggests an internal coolant leak, and could mean you have a blown head gasket. Black smoke commonly points to the engine burning too much fuel. Any unusual exhaust smoke should be checked out by the mechanic right away.


Poor Performance and Reduced Power

If you notice that your car is struggling to accelerate, feels sluggish, or has lost its usual power, there could be an engine problem at play. Poor performance can result from a variety of issues, including fuel system and ignition system problems. Regardless of the cause, a drop in performance is a red flag that your engine needs attention.


Engine Stalling or Misfiring

Frequent engine stalling or misfiring can be a sign of a serious problem. These issues could be caused by faulty spark plugs or fuel delivery problems. If your engine stalls when you're driving or misfires regularly, it's crucial to get it inspected. 


Engine 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!

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!