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 360-639-7112. Feel free to give us a call to make 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!