5 Symptoms of a Brake Problem that You Shouldn’t Ignore

Interstate Automotive • November 19, 2024

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!

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Does my car need a wheel alignment? Watch out for these signs

By Interstate Automotive • January 22, 2026

Proper wheel alignment plays a major role in how your car handles, how evenly your tires wear, and how safe your vehicle is on the road. But over time, potholes, curb impacts, and rough road conditions can cause alignment issues. At Interstate Automotive, we provide expert wheel alignment in the greater Olympia area. Here are four indications that it’s time for a wheel alignment. Your Vehicle Pulls to One Side One of the most noticeable signs of wheel alignment trouble is your car pulling to the left or right while driving on a straight, level road. If you find yourself constantly adjusting the steering wheel just to keep your vehicle moving straight, misaligned wheels may be the cause. This pulling can make driving tiring and unsafe, especially at higher speeds or on long trips. Uneven or Rapid Tire Wear Improper alignment often causes uneven tire wear. You may notice the inner or outer edges of your tires wearing down faster than the rest of the tread. In some cases, one tire may wear much more quickly than the others. Uneven wear not only shortens tire life, but also reduces traction. Crooked Steering Wheel While Driving Straight A steering wheel that sits off-center when you’re driving straight is another common warning sign. If your wheel is tilted even though the car is moving in a straight line, it usually means the alignment angles are off. This can affect steering precision and make it harder to react quickly to sudden changes in traffic. Steering Wheel Vibrations Although vibrations can stem from several issues, misaligned wheels are a frequent contributor. If you feel consistent vibrations through the steering wheel, particularly at higher speeds, it may indicate alignment problems. Wheel Alignment in Olympia, WA For wheel alignment in Olympia and the surrounding area, contact Interstate Automotive at 360-505-7292 . At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly address your car’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Common Indications that Your Vehicle Needs Its Shocks to Be Replaced

By Interstate Automotive • December 16, 2025

Healthy shocks absorb bumps, help maintain tire contact with the road, and promote proper handling in various driving conditions. Over time, shocks wear out from constant use, and when they do, the effects can impact everything from comfort to safety. Recognizing the warning signs early can prevent costlier repairs and dangerous situations on the road. At Interstate Automotive, we provide expert suspension repair in the greater Olympia area. Here are four warning signs that it’s time to replace your shocks. Excessive Bouncing While Driving One of the most noticeable signs of worn shocks is excessive bouncing. If your vehicle continues to bounce after hitting a bump or pothole, the shocks may no longer be able to absorb the impact effectively. This can make your ride feel rough and unstable, especially at higher speeds. Nose-Diving During Braking When shocks begin to fail, the front of the vehicle may dip or “nose-dive” when you apply the brakes. This happens because the shocks can no longer properly support the vehicle’s weight during deceleration. Nose-diving not only reduces braking efficiency, but can also increase stopping distance, putting you at greater risk during emergency situations. Replacing worn shocks helps restore proper braking stability and keeps you safer on the road. Poor Handling/Steering Response Worn shocks affect the way your vehicle handles, especially during turns or lane changes. You may notice that the vehicle feels less responsive, sways more than usual, or leans excessively when cornering. This makes driving more unpredictable and can compromise your control over the vehicle. Shocks that no longer function properly allow too much body movement, potentially creating a dangerous imbalance that should be addressed immediately. Uneven Tire Wear When shocks are worn, they can no longer keep the tires firmly planted on the road. This causes the tires to bounce excessively, leading to uneven tread wear. Uneven wear reduces tire lifespan and can increase the risk of blowouts. If you notice unusual wear patterns on your tires, it’s a potential indication that your shocks are failing and need to be replaced to protect both your tires and your safety. Suspension 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 make an appointment for car care in Olympia!