Olympia Auto Repair

You turn on your vehicle to go about your day and look at the dashboard to see that the check engine light has turned on. We understand this dreaded feeling, and how scary it can be not knowing what the issue could be or whether or not it is severe. Even worse, you see the light is flashing. What does it mean when the check engine light is blinking and does it indicate a serious problem? The first thing every driver should know is that a flashing check engine light means trouble. This is a sign to get your vehicle into our shop right away for an inspection. But what exactly does a blinking check engine light indicate?  A flashing check engine light typically means that you have a catalytic converter issue. The catalytic converter has a really important job in your vehicle's emissions system because it is the component that converts harmful gas emitted from the engine into less harmful gases before they are released into the atmosphere.  If you see the check engine ligh ... read more

When it comes to the summer, many drivers don't realize that the intense heat can take a toll on our vehicles. This is for a number of reasons, including the temperature increase, traffic, and using our vehicles more frequently. It's also common for vehicle owners to have trouble starting their cars during the summer. However, can the heat actually drain your car battery?  Your vehicle's battery is important because it helps power your vehicle upon start-up and helps to keep your electrical components running. The anatomy of the battery is much like a battery you use at home like a AA battery in the sense that your battery runs on battery acid. Without battery acid, the battery doesn't work anymore and loses its "juice".  What happens is, the warmer weather actually causes battery acid to evaporate quicker. This decrease in battery acid can cause a decrease in the battery's overall function and eventually lead you to need a new battery.  ... read more

As a vehicle driver, you're probably familiar with the term "driving stick", which refers to driving a car with a manual transmission. While both automatic and manual transmissions are efficient when it comes to moving your vehicle, there are specific differences and pros and cons for both types of transmissions.  The job of the transmission is to essentially create torque by transferring power from the engine to your vehicle's wheels. The higher speed that your vehicle is traveling, the higher gear required. When driving an automatic transmission vehicle, the gear will automatically shift, while the manual transmission requires the driver to use a clutch to shift gears.  There are a few different reasons why some drivers prefer a manual transmission to an automatic transmission. For one, some believe it enhances the driving experience. It makes you feel more involved when driving, and gives the driver full control over the gears. Manual transmissions can ... read more

Getting stuck without a working air conditioning in your vehicle seems to always happen on the day warmer days when you need it most. Driving with the windows down isn't the end of the world, but your comfort while driving is significantly decreased. Understanding what symptoms you are experiencing can help you identify what could be the cause of your issues and how quickly you need to get it fixed.  There are many different working components in your vehicle's air conditioning system, much like the one you might have at home. These components include a compressor, condensor, evaporator, metering device, hoses or lines, and refrigerant. All work together seamlessly with help from the electrical systems to keep you cool while driving. Here are some of the common symptoms of a faulty air conditioning system: Air doesn't blow out cool No air comes out of vents Noises when A/C is running Mold or mildew smell coming from vents No air coming out of the vents can indica ... read more

Here at Olympic Transmissions & Auto Care, we know that times are uncertain with the rapid spread of the COVID-19 virus throughout the state of Washington. As a community, we are all doing our part to stay home and use proper precautions to prevent further spread of the virus and ensure the health of ourselves and our families.  While there is currently a shelter in place order here in Washington, auto repair is considered an essential service and we are still open to serve you. Many of those in Olympia work in healthcare or other essential fields and still need to travel to work every day. Also, you may still need a reliable vehicle to get you to the store to get the food and necessities that your family needs. This is why staying open is so important, so that you can maintain a working vehicle during these tough times.  At Olympic Transmissions & Auto Care, our team is committed to doing our part in protecting the health and safety of our community. We w ... read more

You see the warning light above illuminate on your dashboard and wonder - do I get three wishes? Just kidding. Although this warning light may look like a Genie's lamp, it is actually a very important warning indication. This light indicates low oil, which is one of those warning indicators that you should never ignore. Actually, when you see this light on, it is vital to stop your engine and avoid driving. Here's why! Your vehicle requires oil to run - that is a given, considering you have to get your vehicle's oil changed every 3 to 6 months. Without the proper levels of oil, your engine is at risk for some serious damage. This is because engine oil has the important job of lubricating the engine and its parts to reduce the wear of working components and ensure that the engine temperature is regulated. When you take the engine oil away, you get metal to metal contact and and overheating engine - and a very sad wallet.  Typically, this warning light will come on whe ... read more

You're driving along on your merry way when suddenly you feel that drop on one side of your vehicle and a harsh pull from the hole - you've hit a pothole. Potholes in the road aren't only an annoyance, but can also cause damage to our vehicles. Sometimes they can't be avoided, especially when they are dead set in the path of your tires.  How does a pothole form? A pothole happens when soil beneath the road pavement weakens. It usually happens after winter when water and ice finds its way underneath the pavement. This weakens the soil beneath and when cars drive over these areas in the spring, potholes begin to form.  If you do end up hitting a pothole, be sure to check the following parts for any signs of damage:  Tires - the tires are at the forefront of the impact, so typically they take the biggest blow. Damage to the tires from potholes can include bulges, tread separation, tears, and more.  Wheels - a pothole can put a dent in your wheels an ... read more

We know that leaving your house in the morning during the winter time can be stressful when you see that your car's windshield is completely frozen over. Plus, you don't have the extra time to sit and wait for your defroster to do the work. The following hack is a smart way to fast track your windshield's defrosting process and get you back on the road quickly.  Here are the steps to take for our quick defrosting hack:  You'll need to have rubbing alcohol on hand. The solution is two parts alcohol and one part water. Make sure that the water you use is not hold. Room temperature or cold water will work well. Hot water can crack your windshield due to the difference in temperature between the hot water and cold windshield.  Before putting the solution on your windshield, protect your hands with rubber gloves.  Put the alcohol and water solution into a spray bottle.  Spray the mixture onto your windshield. Continuing adding the solution until ... read more

Happy Thanksgiving from all of us here at Olympic Transmissions & Auto Care! The holidays around this time of year mean that many people will be traveling to and from to visit friends and family. While traveling can be fun, making sure that your vehicle is in good condition before you leave is the most important thing you can do. This will not only guarantee that your vehicle is reliable, but it will ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road.  A pre-road trip inspection during the holidays is very important to have completed before you embark on your trip. Be sure to have your vehicle inspected by the experts here at Olympic Transmissions & Auto Care before you hit the road. Getting stuck on the side of the road can ruin your vacation and cost you thousands depending on the situation. We want to keep you safe and secure throughout your journey.  We recommend the following travel tips this winter:  Make sure you check the weather forecast of your ... read more

It's that time of the year when our favorite football teams go head to head and we as fans get to show our pride for our teams. If you're planning on attending a one or two games this season or are a season ticket holder, remembering a few car safety tips when it comes traveling to the game can help ensure that you arrive there and back safely and that you have a great time!  Make sure you have cash on you, just in case. Many football or sports games will require paying for parking, and usually only cash is accepted.  Know your route - be sure to know where the parking is and how to get there. Often times looking up directions to a stadium won't take you to parking, so looking up surrounding parking will save you time and stress.  Bring lots of water and some snacks for the car ride. If its a big game, chances are you may find yourself in the car for an extended period of time.  If you're planning on tailgating, make sure you are prepared with ev ... read more