Don’t Overlook these Common Warning Signs of Engine Trouble

Interstate Automotive • September 20, 2025
Car in auto repair shop, hood open, beige car in foreground, mechanic in background.

Your car’s engine is its heart, and when something starts to go wrong, the sooner you recognize the signs, the better. Ignoring potential engine trouble can lead to breakdowns, costly repairs, or even complete engine failure. While modern vehicles are built to be durable, they still need prompt attention when problems arise. At Interstate Automotive, we provide expert engine repair in the greater Olympia, WA area. Here’s a look at four common warning signs of engine trouble that you shouldn’t ignore. 


Strange Noises

Engines are designed to run smoothly, so if you begin hearing unusual sounds such as knocking, grinding, or ticking, it’s a red flag. Knocking noises often signal worn-out bearings, while grinding may indicate a lubrication problem. Any strange or persistent sound under the hood deserves prompt attention from a mechanic to prevent more serious damage.


Warning Lights

The check engine light is one of the most common indicators of a problem, but other dashboard lights may also point to engine issues. While it can sometimes be triggered by something minor, such as a loose gas cap, it often signals issues with components like the oxygen sensor, catalytic converter, or ignition system. Ignoring warning lights can allow small problems to escalate into costly repairs.


Discolored/Excessive Exhaust Smoke

Your exhaust can tell you a lot about your engine’s health. Blue smoke may indicate oil burning, white smoke can signal internal coolant leaks, and black smoke often means too much fuel is being burned. Any unusual or excessive exhaust is a clear warning sign that your engine needs professional attention.


Rough Idling 

Engines should idle smoothly, so if your car shakes, sputters, or stalls when stopped, there may be an issue with the fuel system, spark plugs, or airflow sensors. While it might start as a minor annoyance, rough idling can lead to more serious engine problems if ignored.


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 make an appointment!

4 Maintenance Tips for Keeping Your Engine in Great Long-Term Health

By Interstate Automotive • August 21, 2025
Keeping your engine in great condition is essential for reliable performance and long-term value. Neglecting engine maintenance can lead to costly repairs, poor fuel-economy, and even complete engine failure. Fortunately, consistent care can keep your engine running smoothly for many miles to come. Here are four basic maintenance tips that will help preserve your engine’s long-term health. Change the Oil and Filter Regularly Oil is essential for lubricating the engine’s moving parts and preventing excessive wear. Over time, oil breaks down and becomes contaminated with dirt and debris, which can cause friction and damage. Following the manufacturer’s recommended oil change schedule is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your engine. Always replace the oil filter during each oil change to ensure your engine receives clean, effective lubrication. Replace the Air Filter When Needed Your engine needs a clean air supply for efficient combustion. A clogged or dirty air filter restricts airflow, making the engine work harder and reducing fuel-efficiency. Replacing the air filter at regular intervals helps maintain optimal performance and protects your engine from harmful contaminants. Stay on Top of Spark Plug Maintenance Spark plugs ignite the air-fuel mixture inside the engine’s cylinders, playing a vital role in engine operation. Worn or fouled spark plugs can cause misfires, rough idling, and reduced fuel-economy. Depending on your particular vehicle and spark plug type, spark plugs typically need to be replaced somewhere between 30,000 to 100,000 miles. Keeping them in good condition helps ensure efficient combustion and smooth engine performance. Address Warning Signs Early If your check engine light comes on, your engine starts making unusual noises, or you notice a drop in performance, don’t ignore the symptoms. Small issues can quickly become major problems if left unchecked. Regular inspections and timely repairs are key to keeping your engine running strong for years to come. Engine Repair & Maintenance in Olympia, WA For an experienced mechanic 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!