Is my car leaking transmission fluid? Don’t ignore these 5 warning signs

Interstate Automotive • March 22, 2025
A close up of a car 's shifter with a wooden handle.

Your vehicle’s transmission relies on fluid to keep its components lubricated and running smoothly. When a transmission fluid leak occurs, it can lead to serious mechanical issues, costly repairs, and even complete transmission failure if left unchecked. At Interstate Automotive, we provide expert transmission fluid leak repair in the greater Olympia, WA area. Here are five signs that your vehicle may be losing transmission fluid.


Puddles of Red Fluid Under Your Car

One of the most obvious signs of a transmission fluid leak is a puddle of red or brown fluid forming beneath your vehicle. Transmission fluid is typically bright red when fresh, but it can turn darker brown as it ages. If you notice an oily spot in your driveway or garage, it’s important to determine whether it’s transmission fluid or another type of automotive fluid. If you suspect a leak, have a professional inspect your vehicle to locate and repair the source of the problem.


Difficulty Shifting Gears

Low transmission fluid levels can lead to sluggish, rough, or delayed gear shifts. Transmission fluid plays a vital role in creating hydraulic pressure for smooth gear changes, so difficulty in shifting could be a warning sign of a possible leak.


Burning Smell Coming from the Engine

If you detect a strong burning odor while driving, it could be due to overheating transmission fluid. When fluid levels drop due to a leak, the remaining fluid may overheat as it struggles to keep the transmission cool and lubricated. If this issue is not addressed quickly, it can cause severe damage to the transmission.


Unusual Noises While Driving

A healthy transmission should operate smoothly and quietly. If you begin to hear whining or grinding sounds, it could be a sign that your transmission fluid is low due to a leak. These noises typically indicate that metal components within the transmission are not receiving adequate lubrication, leading to increased wear and tear. 


Transmission Slipping or Hesitation

Transmission slipping occurs when the transmission fails to stay in the correct gear, causing a sudden loss of power or erratic shifting. This can be especially dangerous when driving at higher speeds or merging onto highways. When transmission fluid leaks, the hydraulic pressure needed for proper gear engagement diminishes, leading to slippage or hesitation. 


Transmission Repair in Olympia, WA

For transmission 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!