Your car's suspension system is responsible for keeping your vehicle stable and enabling a comfortable driving experience. However, like any other part of your car, the suspension system can eventually develop issues, and it’s best to get to the shop at the first sign of trouble. At Lloyd’s Automotive & Transmission Specialists, we provide expert suspension repair in the greater Olympia, WA area. Here’s a look at five warning signs of a suspension problem. Bumpy or Rough Ride A healthy suspension system should provide a smooth ride. If you start experiencing a bumpy or rough ride, it's a clear indication that something is wrong. Worn-out shocks or struts can cause your vehicle to bounce excessively over bumps and uneven surfaces, compromising both comfort and control. Don't dismiss a rough ride as normal wear and tear – have your suspension system inspected by the mechanic. Pulling or Drifting During Turns When your suspension system is functioning properly, your car should remain stable and well-balanced during turns. However, if you notice your vehicle pulling or drifting to one side when cornering, it could indicate suspension issues. This could be caused by worn-out suspension components, such as control arms or sway bar links, or problems with your steering system. Excessive Noise Squeaking, creaking, or clunking noises when going over bumps or rough roads could indicate worn-out suspension components or loose parts. These noises may be caused by damaged bushings, worn-out shocks or struts, or loose sway bar links. Ignoring these noises may lead to further damage and compromise the safety and performance of your vehicle. Uneven Tire Wear If you notice that the tread on your tires is wearing out unevenly, it could indicate issues with your suspension. Uneven tire wear is often caused by misaligned wheels or worn-out suspension components, such as bushings or ball joints. Ignoring this issue may affect your vehicle's handling and safety. Uneven Ride Height Your vehicle's ride height should remain consistent under normal conditions. If you notice one corner of your car sitting lower than the others, it could indicate suspension problems. Worn-out springs or damaged suspension components can cause uneven ride height, affecting both the aesthetics and the performance of your vehicle. Suspension Repair in Olympia, WA When you need auto repair in Olympia and the surrounding area, contact Lloyd’s Automotive & Transmission Specialists at (360) 357-7422. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment for your vehicle’s repair or maintenance needs!

Transmission fluid lubricates moving parts, dissipates heat, and facilitates gear shifts. This makes it very important that you’re driving with the right amount. Recognizing the signs of low transmission fluid is essential to prevent potential damage and promote the longevity of your vehicle. At Lloyd’s Automotive & Transmission Specialists, we provide top-quality transmission service in Olympia, and our local mechanics are experts at addressing issues related to transmission fluid. Here are four warning signs that your transmission fluid is too low. Delayed or Rough Shifting If you experience delays in gear engagement or notice that your car is shifting more roughly than usual, it could be an indication that the transmission fluid is insufficient to provide proper lubrication and hydraulic pressure. You should check your transmission fluid on a monthly basis—even if you don’t suspect an issue. If the fluid is low or looks burnt, it’s time to take action. Unusual Transmission Noises Healthy transmission systems operate quietly, but low fluid levels can lead to increased friction and wear between metal components. If you start hearing strange noises—such as whining, clunking, or grinding—it might be a red flag for low transmission fluid. Ignoring these noises could result in serious damage to the transmission, leading to costly repairs. Transmission Overheating Transmission fluid plays a crucial role in dissipating heat generated during the operation of the transmission. When the fluid level is low, it cannot optimally carry out this function, potentially causing the transmission to overheat. An overheated transmission can lead to fluid degradation and damage to internal components. A burning smell is one sign of an overheating transmission. Fluid Leaks Transmission fluid is typically bright red with a somewhat sweet smell. If you notice red puddles or spots beneath your parked vehicle, it could be a sign of a transmission fluid leak. A leaking transmission can result in low fluid levels, leading to diminished performance and potential damage. Such leaks should be brought to the mechanic's attention ASAP. Transmission Service in Olympia When you need transmission service in Olympia and the surrounding area, contact Lloyd’s Automotive & Transmission Specialists at (360) 357-7422. At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!

Your vehicle's cooling system plays a critical role in maintaining optimal engine temperature and preventing overheating. Ignoring signs of cooling system trouble can lead to serious engine damage and costly repairs. This makes it important to alert the mechanic at the first sign of cooling system trouble. At Lloyd’s Automotive & Transmission Specialists, we provide expert cooling system repair in the greater Olympia area. Here’s a look at four warning signs of a cooling system problem. Rising Temperature Gauge One of the most obvious signs of cooling system trouble is an increasing temperature gauge on your dashboard. If you notice the needle creeping into the red zone or consistently running higher than usual, it's a clear indication that your engine is overheating. This could be due to a malfunctioning thermostat, a coolant leak, or a failing water pump. Low Coolant Levels Regularly check your vehicle's coolant levels to ensure they remain within the recommended range. A sudden drop in coolant levels could suggest a leak in the system. Coolant is crucial for absorbing and dissipating heat generated by the engine. A decrease in levels may lead to insufficient cooling, ultimately causing the engine to overheat. Visible Coolant Leaks Keep an eye out for any puddles or stains beneath your parked vehicle. Coolant is commonly green or orange, and its presence on the ground indicates a leak in the system. Leaks can occur in various components, such as hoses, radiator, or water pump. Identifying and fixing the source of the leak promptly can prevent further damage. Steam or Smoke from the Engine Compartment If you observe steam or smoke emerging from the engine compartment, it's a clear indication of an overheating issue. Pull over to a safe location immediately and turn off the engine. Continuing to drive with an overheating engine can cause severe damage. Once you’re in a safe spot and your engine is off, you can call up the shop to explain exactly what’s happening and seek guidance. Cooling System Repair in Olympia, WA When you need auto repair in Olympia, WA and the surrounding area, contact Lloyd’s Automotive & Transmission Specialists at (360) 357-7422. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment for your vehicle’s repair or maintenance needs!

It’s always best to get to the shop as soon as you notice that your engine isn’t starting as easily as it typically does. This will give you the best chance to identify and resolve the problem before it gets worse and leaves you stranded. At Lloyd’s Automotive & Transmissions Specialists, our local mechanics are highly experienced with diagnosing and fixing issues that cause hard-starts and no-starts. Here are five common reasons that cars struggle to fire up. Dead or Weak Battery The battery is the heart of your vehicle's electrical system, providing the necessary power to start the engine. If your battery is malfunctioning, it can easily lead to no-start. When you suspect a battery problem (and know it’s not because of something like leaving your lights on), you can check for corroded terminals and loose connections. But batteries also die because they simply grow old after a few years and reach the end of their life expectancy. Faulty Starter Motor The starter motor is responsible for cranking the engine when you turn the key. A malfunctioning starter motor can prevent your engine from starting. Listen for a clicking sound when you turn the key, as this could indicate a faulty starter. If you hear the click but the engine doesn't turn over, the starter may need replacement. Fuel System Issues Your engine needs a proper mixture of fuel and air to combust and run efficiently. If there's a problem with the fuel system, such as a clogged fuel filter or a malfunctioning fuel pump, your engine may not receive sufficient fuel to properly fire up. Faulty Alternator While the alternator doesn't directly start the engine, it plays a crucial role in keeping the battery charged. If the alternator malfunctions, the battery can drain, leading to a failure to fire up. Signs of alternator trouble include an illuminated dashboard warning light, as well as flickering headlights. Ignition System Problems A malfunctioning ignition system can also be a culprit. Problems with the ignition switch, spark plugs, and ignition coils can disrupt the spark needed to ignite the fuel-air mixture. Replacing worn-out spark plugs or a faulty ignition coil can often resolve this issue. Auto Repair in Olympia, WA When you need auto repair in Olympia and the surrounding area, contact Lloyd’s Automotive & Transmission Specialists at (360) 357-7422. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment for your vehicle’s repair or maintenance needs!

If your check engine light flashes on, it doesn’t automatically mean that your engine is on the cusp of disaster. Still, you should promptly visit the shop for diagnostics so the issue can be pinpointed and resolved before it escalates. At Lloyd’s Automotive & Transmission Specialists, we provide expert check engine light diagnostics and repair in the greater Olympia, WA area. Here are five common check engine light triggers. Faulty Oxygen Sensor One of the most common culprits behind an illuminated check engine light is a malfunctioning oxygen sensor. Oxygen sensors play a crucial role in regulating the air-fuel mixture in your engine. When they fail, it can lead to decreased fuel-efficiency and increased emissions. Loose or Damaged Gas Cap Believe it or not, something as simple as a loose or damaged gas cap can trigger the check engine light. The gas cap is a crucial part of your car's emissions system, ensuring that fuel vapors don’t escape into the atmosphere. If it's loose or damaged, it can disrupt this system, causing the check engine light to illuminate. Spark Plug or Ignition Coil Issues Your engine's spark plugs and ignition coils are responsible for igniting the air-fuel mixture in the cylinders. When these components fail, it can lead to misfires and a rough-running engine, triggering the check engine light. Mass Airflow Sensor Problems The mass airflow sensor (MAF) measures the amount of air entering the engine, helping the engine control unit (ECU) adjust the air-fuel mixture. When the MAF sensor malfunctions, it can lead to poor engine performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and an illuminated check engine light. Catalytic Converter Issues The catalytic converter is a critical component in your vehicle's exhaust system, responsible for reducing harmful emissions. Over time, it can become clogged or damaged, leading to decreased engine performance and increased emissions. If your check engine light is on due to catalytic converter problems, it's important to promptly address the issue. Check Engine Light Repair in Olympia, WA When you need auto repair in Olympia and the surrounding area, contact Lloyd’s Automotive & Transmission Specialists at (360) 357-7422. At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!

To stay safe on the road, it’s crucial that your brakes are functioning strongly. When a roadway hazard suddenly emerges, you need to be able to trust your brakes to slow your car down as safely as possible. When you first notice a symptom of brake trouble, it’ll be best to get to the shop for an inspection. At Lloyd’s Automotive & Transmission Specialists, our local mechanics are highly experienced with brake repair in the greater Olympia area. Warning Signs of Brake Trouble An especially dangerous sign of brake failure is that your vehicle begins pulling to one side when you hit the brake pedal, which may happen if corrosion has caused a caliper to freeze up. Because this puts you and other drivers in harm’s way, you shouldn’t drive your car in this condition. Rather, you should get towed to the shop. In some instances, the ABS (anti-lock braking system) warning light is the first sign of trouble. This light sometimes turns on due to troubling signals from wheel sensors. It might also come on if there is low fluid in the reservoir. In the event that you have a brake fluid leak, you have a major safety hazard that puts you at high risk. When brake fluid is leaking, it can often be found next to a tire or underneath the master brake cylinder. Problems with brake pads often lead to signs of brake trouble. If you hear a loud squealing noise, then you’ve got a sign that the small piece of metal attached to the brake pad has started to rub against the rotor. Worn-out brake pads can also lead to grinding. This can then put your rotors at risk of damage. Brake pads often need to be replaced by 30,000 miles, but this can vary quite a bit depending on how hard you are on your brakes. There’s also cause for concern if your brake pedal quickly sinks down to the floor when you step on it with a normal amount of force. This could be happening because there’s a problem related to air or water in your braking system. Brake Repair in Olympia, WA When you need auto repair in Olympia and the surrounding area, contact Lloyd’s Automotive & Transmission Specialists at (360) 357-7422. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment for your vehicle’s repair or maintenance needs!

Your vehicle’s transmission is composed of numerous moving parts that work in unison to transfer power to wheels. When a symptom of transmission trouble becomes apparent, you’ll want to be proactive about addressing it. If you delay, the issue could soon escalate to the point that costly repairs are needed. Or, you may even need a full-on rebuild. At Lloyd’s Automotive & Transmission Specialists, we provide top-quality transmission rebuilding in the greater Olympia, WA area. Signs that You May Need a Transmission Rebuild A sign of serious transmission trouble that could potentially require a rebuild is that your car won’t shift into a specific gear---or into any gear whatsoever. This could mean you’re dealing with worn-out gear teeth that are preventing your transmission from properly engaging. Abnormal sounds that come from your transmission could also mean that you need a rebuild. A grinding sound while in neutral is one indication of potentially serious transmission trouble. In some cases, this issue can be resolved with a transmission flush. However, there is also a chance that this is a symptom of a more complicated problem such as worn-out bearings or reverse idler gear trouble. Another reason that transmissions sometimes need to be rebuilt is that they suffer damage from overheating. Your transmission could be overheating if you notice an odor like burnt plastic, which suggests that transmission fluid is burning. If your car is leaking transmission fluid, you’ll want to fix the problem ASAP. Unaddressed transmission fluid leaks can lead to damage that necessitates a rebuild. Common sources of transmission fluid leaks include falling seals, damaged transmission lines, and a worn-out transmission pan gasket. Transmission Rebuilding in Olympia, WA When you need transmission service in Olympia and the surrounding area, contact Lloyd’s Automotive & Transmission Specialists at (360) 357-7422. At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair or maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment! And be sure to check out our current special offers !

It’s important to take action as soon as you notice a sign of a transmission fluid leak. Signs of a transmission fluid leak include red fluid on the ground where you’ve been parked, as well as a concerningly low reading on your transmission dipstick. Transmission fluid provides lubrication, fluid pressure, cooling, and rust prevention. So if transmission fluid is leaking, then very expensive problems could follow. When you need transmission repair, be sure to entrust the work to a shop that specializes in this field. At Lloyd’s Automotive & Transmission Specialists, our local mechanics have extensive experience with identifying and flawlessly fixing transmission problems. Don’t hesitate to give us a call if you notice any signs of transmission trouble . Common Locations of Transmission Fluid Leaks Transmission fluid leaks often arise due to pan gasket issues. The pan gasket forms the seal between the bell housing and transmission pan. Standard wear and tear can cause a leak to eventually form at this gasket. Degraded transmission lines are another common source of leaks. Your transmission lines do the critical job of transporting fluid between different transmission components. Sometimes, transmission lines start to crack, and then a leak ensues. There are a number of seals in your transmission that could become the source of leaks. Worn-down rubber on a seal can lead to misalignment, which could in turn result in the formation of a leak. Issues with valves and solenoids can also potentially lead to leaking transmission fluid. Because valves/solenoids serve an integral purpose in successfully directing fluid through your transmission, problems with them should be promptly brought to a mechanic’s attention. Transmission Repair in Olympia, WA When you need transmission repair in Olympia and the surrounding area, contact Lloyd’s Automotive & Transmission Specialists at (360) 357-7422. At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair or maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment! And be sure to check out our current special offers !

At Lloyd’s Automotive & Transmission Specialists, it’s our mission to make our customers happy by consistently providing top-quality repairs at fair prices. Whether you need a transmission rebuild or an oil change, our ASE-certified technicians will work diligently to do the job right the first time. And we’re always thankful when our customers offer feedback about the work that we did for them. Here’s a look at some of our latest customer reviews. “Great experience. Morgan was very communicative and helpful getting my transmission rebuilt. Truck is driving great!” —Ben S. “Very knowledgeable and trustworthy. I am very pleased with how my car drives now. I brought my car in for a safety check. They discovered that my right and left control panel for my brakes was cracked. Without pressuring me they gave me a quote and I decided it would be wise to bring the car back in to be fixed. Very happy with the results. I will definitely bring my car back to Lloyd's Automotive for issues big and small.” —Heather C. “Lloyd's was great to work with on my 2019 Yukon XL! I called frantic because I just got my 90k service, but it was still acting funny when accelerating. They got me in right away, got me a diagnosis, and got the work done within a matter of days! They communicated clearly on exactly what they were doing and how much it would cost. I was surprised how fast it was ready. My Yukon is running so smoothly, which is such a relief - because like everyone my vehicle is my lifeline to my work, to my family and to get me safely back home. Thank you Lloyd's!” —Sharlaine L. “Wonderful company. I traveled a long way and I would do it again to feel so taken care of. I felt the price was very fair.” —Jackie H. “Had my 94 F-250 in for some hydraulic issues and they took awesome care of me and my truck. Wonderful customer service, cost, and labor times.” —Eric B. Auto Repair in Olympia, WA When you need auto repair in Olympia and the surrounding area, contact Lloyd’s Automotive & Transmission Specialists at (360) 357-7422. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!