Don’t Ignore these 5 Indications of Alternator Trouble

Interstate Automotive • December 22, 2024
A black truck is sitting on a lift in a garage.

The alternator is a vital component of your vehicle’s electrical system, responsible for keeping the battery charged and powering essential systems like the headlights, radio, and air conditioning. When the alternator starts to fail, it can lead to a host of issues that compromise your car’s performance. At Interstate Automotive, we provide expert alternator replacement and auto electric repair in the greater Olympia area. Here are five common signs that your alternator is malfunctioning.


Dashboard Warning Light

If your alternator is failing, a warning light shaped like a battery or labeled ALT or GEN may illuminate. This light commonly means that the alternator is not supplying sufficient power to the battery. While it might seem like a minor issue, ignoring this warning can lead to a total loss of power, leaving you stranded. It’s best to have your alternator inspected when this light appears.


Dimming/Flickering Lights

Since the alternator powers the vehicle’s electrical system, a failing alternator may struggle to keep the lights at full brightness. You might notice your headlights dimming or flickering. Interior lights may also be affected, becoming noticeably weaker than usual. These lighting issues indicate that your vehicle is not receiving enough electrical power, and it’s a sign that the alternator may need attention.


Weak or Dead Battery

A weak or dead battery can often be traced back to alternator problems. While batteries do wear out over time, if your battery dies frequently or struggles to hold a charge, the alternator may be to blame. The alternator is responsible for charging the battery while the engine is running, and a failing alternator will eventually leave the battery drained.


Electrical Accessory Problems

A failing alternator can cause various electrical components to malfunction. You might notice that power windows move slower than usual, the radio cuts out intermittently, or the air conditioning doesn’t work as efficiently. These issues occur because the alternator is no longer providing enough power to keep all the electrical systems functioning properly.


Unusual Noises

Strange noises coming from under the hood can be a sign of alternator trouble. Grinding or whining sounds may suggest that the bearings inside the alternator are worn or that there is an issue with the belt. Paying attention to any unusual sounds and addressing them promptly can often prevent more extensive damage.


Alternator Replacement & Auto Electric 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 schedule an appointment!

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!