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

Interstate Automotive • November 19, 2024
A close up of a brake caliper on a car.

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!

Why is my car struggling to start? Here are 4 common culprits

By Interstate Automotive • July 21, 2025
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!

Helpful Tips for Keeping Your Transmission in Excellent Health

By Interstate Automotive • June 21, 2025
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 !