Why it’s Worth Having Your Vehicle Professionally Inspected Before a Road Trip

Interstate Automotive • May 20, 2025
A woman is driving a car down a highway with mountains in the background.

A road trip can be one of the most enjoyable ways to explore new places and spend quality time with loved ones. However, before you hit the highway, it’s essential to make sure your vehicle is ready for the journey ahead. Even if your car seems to be running fine, a pre-trip inspection by a mechanic can help prevent unexpected problems and keep your adventure on track. At Interstate Automotive, we provide expert auto maintenance in the greater Olympia area. Here are four reasons to schedule a vehicle inspection before heading out on a road trip.


Prevent Unexpected Breakdowns

It’s very frustrating to be stranded on the side of the road in an unfamiliar area. The mechanic can spot potential issues—such as worn belts, low fluids, or battery problems—that might lead to a breakdown. Catching and fixing these problems early can save you from major inconveniences, tow truck expenses, and delayed travel plans. 


Maximize Road Safety

Safety should always be the top priority when planning a long drive. A professional inspection includes checking critical systems such as the brakes, tires, suspension, lights, and steering. These components are vital to keeping you and your passengers safe on the road. Even minor issues like uneven tire wear or low brake fluid can pose a danger when traveling at high speeds or on unfamiliar terrain. A mechanic’s trained eye can help ensure everything is working as it should.


Improve Fuel-Efficiency

When your vehicle is properly maintained, it runs more efficiently. A pre-trip inspection can uncover simple fixes that improve fuel-economy, such as replacing a dirty air filter or inflating the tires to the correct pressure. These small adjustments can make a big difference over a long journey, helping you save money at the gas pump and reduce your environmental impact.


Helps You Enjoy a Stress-Free Trip

One of the best reasons to have your car inspected before a road trip is the peace of mind it provides. Knowing that a professional has looked over your vehicle and given it a clean bill of health allows you to enjoy your journey without constantly worrying about what could go wrong. With your car in reliable condition, you can focus on making memories and enjoying the ride.


Auto Maintenance in Olympia, WA

For auto maintenance in Olympia and the surrounding area, contact Interstate Automotive at 360-505-7292. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

5 Warning Signs that It’s Time for Alternator Replacement

By Interstate Automotive • November 21, 2025
Your vehicle’s alternator plays a crucial role in keeping the electrical system running smoothly. It charges the battery and powers essential components like the headlights, dashboard lights, and power windows while the engine is running. When the alternator begins to fail, your car can quickly experience electrical issues and even lose power completely. At Interstate Automotive, we provide expert alternator replacement and auto electric repair in the greater Olympia area. Here are five common signs that it may be time to replace your alternator. Problems with Lights One of the most common signs of a failing alternator is dim or flickering lights. You might notice your headlights or dashboard lights growing noticeably weaker. Since the alternator powers your vehicle’s lighting system, inconsistent brightness often points to irregular power output. Weak or Dead Battery While batteries can wear out on their own, a weak or frequently dead battery can also be a symptom of a failing alternator. If you’ve replaced your battery recently but it continues to lose charge, your alternator may be the real problem. The mechanic can test your charging system to confirm whether the alternator is functioning properly. Unusual Sounds Under the Hood A failing alternator can produce unusual noises that indicate trouble. Grinding or whining sounds may come from a worn-out bearing or a belt issue in the alternator. Having the alternator inspected at the first sign of unusual noise can potentially prevent bigger problems. Warning Light on the Dashboard Modern vehicles often feature a dashboard warning light shaped like a battery or labeled ALT or GEN. When this light turns on, it’s a signal that your charging system isn’t working correctly. While this warning could indicate a battery problem, it frequently points to a malfunctioning alternator. Don’t ignore the light—have your vehicle checked by a professional to diagnose the issue before it worsens. Electrical Accessories Malfunctioning If your power windows, radio, or air conditioning begin to behave erratically, it could be due to inconsistent power supply from a bad alternator. The alternator may not be generating enough electricity to support all systems, especially when demand is high. When multiple accessories start acting up at once, it’s a warning sign that your alternator is no longer keeping up with your vehicle’s electrical needs. 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 make an appointment!

4 Signs that Your Car Needs Brake Repair Now

By Interstate Automotive • October 24, 2025
Your vehicle’s brakes are one of its most critical safety systems, and any issue with them should be taken seriously. When brakes start to fail, stopping distances increase, handling becomes unpredictable, and the risk of accidents rises dramatically. Recognizing early warning signs can help you avoid costlier repairs and stay safe on the road. At Interstate Automotive, we provide expert brake repair in the greater Olympia, WA area. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it’s time to schedule professional brake service immediately. Strange Noises Unusual sounds coming from your brakes are one of the most common indications of trouble. A high-pitched squealing noise usually means the brake pads have worn thin. If the sound is more of a harsh grinding, it could mean the pads are completely worn out, and metal is scraping against metal. Continuing to drive with grinding brakes can damage rotors, so prompt attention is essential. Soft Brake Pedal If your brake pedal feels soft, spongy, or sinks quickly toward the floor when pressed, that’s a warning sign of a problem in the hydraulic system. This may be due to air in the brake lines or a fluid leak. A soft pedal means your brakes aren’t generating proper pressure, putting you at serious risk if you need to stop suddenly. If your car is leaking brake fluid, it’s a major safety hazard and best to get towed to the shop. Vibrations When you press the brake pedal and feel vibrations or pulsing, it often indicates warped rotors. This can happen from excessive heat buildup and uneven wear. Pulsing brakes reduce stopping efficiency, so it’s best to have a technician diagnose and resolve the issue as soon as possible. Warning Light on the Dashboard If your brake warning light appears on the dashboard, it’s your car’s way of alerting you to a potential issue. Even if the brakes feel normal, an illuminated light should never be ignored. A technician can run diagnostics to determine the exact cause and prevent a small issue from becoming a major one. Brake 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!