Are you looking for a new Lacey auto repair shop? Handing your car over to a mechanic isn’t something we do without some trepidation. It’s important to feel confident that your vehicle is in good hands. So how can you be reasonably certain when you’re choosing a new mechanic? Start by asking a few key questions.

What are My Repair Options?

Most car issues have more than one solution. Some mechanics, however, may choose the most expensive one by not fully explaining your other choices. Ask about all potential options, and make sure the mechanic explains each one thoroughly. Don’t feel embarrassed if you end asking lots of questions. It’s your mechanic’s job to help you understand the ins-and-outs of your car and help you make the most informed decision.

What Certifications Do the Technicians Have?

Reputable technicians will have certification from the National Institute for Automobile Service Excellence (ASE). ASE-certified technicians have shown proof of expertise and experience in their field, and they’re re-tested regularly to ensure they’re on top of the industry’s ever-changing technology. 

Are Warranties Offered on Labor & Parts?

Before the car repair shop begins work on your car, ask them about warranty options. Shops that are confident in their mechanics and the services they perform will provide guarantees.

Looking for a New Auto Repair Shop in Lacey for Your Vehicle?

When you need to find a new auto repair shop in Lacey, contact us at Kohout’s Automotive & Alignment Center to schedule a risk-free consultation today. We’ve served the area for many years. Our ASE certified and experienced auto specialists consistently provide honest advice and quality workmanship. We also offer expert wheel alignment services, RV repair and classic car repair.

Experienced, Recommended Lacey Auto Repair Shop 

Serving Lacey, JBLM, Tumwater & Olympia

Posted on June 8, 2022 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

Are you up to date with your RV service schedule in Olympia? As an RV owner, you already know regular maintenance will extend the lifespan of your RV. Taking care of your vehicle now will help ensure that it stays on the road longer. Keep the following maintenance recommendations in mind.

Engine Oil & Oil Filter Change

Whether your vehicle is old or new, it’s imperative that you schedule regular engine oil and oil filter changes. Most RV service centers recommend using high-quality, energy conserving oil of the right viscosity and changing it every 3,000 miles driven.

Cooling System Service

It’s also important to schedule cooling system RV service on a regular basis. Ideally, you should make an appointment to drain, flush and refill your system with coolant every two years. Service at mile markers 24,000 and 48,000 are recommended.

Air Cleaner Element Replacement

Similarly, a technician should replace the air cleaner element every 24,000 and 48,000 miles driven. You’ll need to schedule this RV service more frequently, however, when driving under dusty conditions.

Transmission Service

Additionally, transmission fluid should be changed every 15,000 miles driven under 8600 GVWR, while it should be changed every 12,000 miles driven over 8600 GVWR. Service is particularly important for vehicles driven in heavy traffic, on hilly terrain and with frequent trailer-pulling.

Time for RV Service in Olympia?

Is it time to schedule service in Olympia? Contact us at Kohout’s Automotive & Alignment Center in Lacey with questions or to schedule a risk-free consultation. We work hard to solve some of the most common problems RV owners face, as well as more complicated repairs. We also provide superior classic car repair and wheel alignment services.

RV Service Experts Serving Olympia

Serving Lacey, JBLM, Tumwater & Olympia

Posted on May 15, 2022 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

Do you need to schedule auto repair or maintenance for your vehicle? It may be wise to bring your vehicle to an auto repair shop instead of a dealership. Technicians at dealerships often have factory training and know the makes and models sold at the dealership very well. But are they better than an independent body shop? Not always. 

Training

Independent body shop technicians often have the same factory training as dealership technicians, and could be more proficient if they’ve been in the industry longer.

Part Quality

Not all auto parts are of equal quality. While most dealerships offer genuine OEM parts, an auto repair shop may be able to get the same parts at lower price points. Verifying the type of parts used is particularly important for individuals seeking classic car repair.

Customer Service

Never settle for less than excellent customer service when choosing between a dealership and an auto repair shop. Dealerships tend to approach repairs by the numbers, meaning their goal is to complete as many tickets per day as possible. A technician at an independently owned shop is often more interested in a customer’s overall experience. 

Need a New Auto Repair Shop Near Olympia?

Working on a range of makes and models at an independent body shop gives the technicians at Kohout’s Automotive & Alignment Center a wider range of experience and technical know-how when it comes to repairing any vehicle. Contact us in Lacey to schedule a consultation. We’ve provided assistance to drivers in and around Olympia for years. Our auto specialists always provide honest advice, quality workmanship and unbeatable customer service. We have the knowledge, skills and equipment necessary to complete your auto maintenance or repair needs quickly and efficiently. We also offer expert RV repairs. 

Experienced, Reliable Auto Repair Shop Near Olympia

Serving Customers in Lacey, JBLM, Tumwater & Olympia

Posted on April 18, 2022 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

Are you looking for an affordable auto repair shop near Tumwater? Whether it’s time for maintenance like a wheel alignment or your vehicle needs more extensive auto repair services, it’s important to know you aren’t being overcharged. While most service centers offer reasonable rates, some do attempt to take advantage of unsuspecting customers. Unfair pricing is particularly difficult for new drivers to spot. Fortunately, there are a few ways to find an affordable auto repair and maintenance in Tumwater. Keep the following tips in mind as you search for a technician.

Look Up Local Average Costs

The amount charged by professional mechanics varies based on several factors, including location. Research the average cost of repair services in your area before making an appointment.

Request Multiple Opinions

If you receive a quote from a repair shop in the Tumwater area that seems high, don’t hesitate to get a second opinion. Take your vehicle to another technician to see what he or she has to say before proceeding.

Keep Other Factors in Mind

Some shops do charge more than others. This higher cost is, on occasion, for a good reason. A technician may have higher rates if his or her company employs highly-experienced employees or has a reputation for excellence, or if you own a specialty vehicle.

Looking for an Affordable Auto Repair Shop near Tumwater?

Contact us at Kohout’s Automotive & Alignment Center in Lacey to schedule an appointment! We’ve provided assistance to drivers in and around Tumwater for years. You can count on our technicians for quality workmanship and unbeatable customer service. Our team has the knowledge, skills and equipment necessary to complete your job quickly and efficiently. We also offer expert RV repairs and classic car repairs. 

Recommended Auto Repair Shop Serving Tumwater

Serving Customers in Lacey, JBLM, Tumwater, and Olympia

Posted on March 15, 2022 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

You’ve finally purchased your dream car; now, you want to make it last as long as possible in top condition! Regular, routine trips to a local auto shop now can help you save bundles of time and money later. Keep the following auto maintenance tips in mind as you drive in Lacey.

Pay Attention to Mileage Checkpoints

When you purchased your vehicle, you were probably provided a list of manufacturer-recommended auto maintenance checkpoints. It’s important to take these recommendations seriously and schedule service when needed.

Schedule Maintenance Seasonally

While you can schedule auto maintenance at any time of year, it’s particularly important to meet with a professional mechanic as the seasons change. Summers and winters are hard on your vehicle. A routine checkup can help you spot potential issues before they develop into large auto repairs.

Keep an Auto Log

Keep a pad and pencil in the glove compartment and use them to record your gas fill-ups and mileage. If you notice that your gas mileage worsens, mention it to your mechanic. It may be an early warning sign that something is wrong with your car.

Have Someone Else Drive

Small changes in the way your vehicle handles can be hard to identify. Have a friend drive your car or truck occasionally to help identify possible auto maintenance quirks early.

Need to Schedule Auto Maintenance in Lacey?

Contact us at Kohout’s Automotive & Alignment Center in Lacey today. We offer expert advice, quality workmanship, and unbeatable customer care. Our mechanics have the knowledge, skills, and equipment necessary to perform most maintenance and repairs. You can also count on us for wheel alignments, RV repairs and classic car repairs.

Auto Maintenance Experts in Lacey

Serving Customers in Lacey, JBLM, Tumwater, and Olympia

Posted on February 12, 2022 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

Looking for a new auto repair specialist to work on your car or truck in the Olympia area? If you want to find a reliable auto mechanic who has your vehicle’s needs in mind, ask good questions. While every auto repair shop claims that they have what it takes to service your vehicle, ask these questions before trusting them with your vehicle in Olympia.

Have you worked on this make and model before?

All vehicles function according to the same principles, but they’re not made the same. Make sure your auto technician is certified to service, or at least has worked on, vehicles like yours. You’ll save lots of time and money by avoiding shops that guess their way through auto repairs.

Do you belong to any automotive associations?

There are a variety of automotive associations that protect the consumer. Groups like AAA and Automotive Service Association hold auto repair shops to certain quality standards in order to maintain membership. Ask your auto technician if their shop is associated with any of these reputable companies. 

Are estimates free?

Experienced auto technicians are usually able to provide an educated guess as to what the nature of your vehicle’s problems are. While vehicle diagnostics typically come at a cost, some shops will offer free estimates. Get these in writing if you plan to proceed with repairs.

Looking for a Reliable Auto Mechanic Serving Olympia?

Let the highly-trained and experienced professional staff at Kohout’s Automotive & Alignment Center in Lacey provide you with the expert services you require. Our knowledgeable technicians are also familiar with RV repairs, wheel alignments, and classic car repairs. Contact us to schedule an appointment for auto repairs in Olympia today.

Experienced & Reliable Auto Mechanic Serving Olympia

Serving Customers in Lacey, JBLM, Tumwater & Olympia

Posted on January 16, 2022 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

Do you drive a high-mileage car or truck in Lacey? Vehicles with more miles on them require extra attention. To keep your vehicle running well year after year, we recommend having it serviced by a professional technician at least once a year. Schedule these high mileage maintenance services with an expert every year.

Brake & Tire Inspection

All high-mileage cars and trucks should have a yearly brake inspection. Ask your professional mechanic to inspect your brakes, brake pads, and brake fluid. Also have your tires checked. Experts recommend having them rotated every 5,000 miles driven, roughly as often as you change your oil.

Battery Connection Cleaning

It’s also important to have your battery connections cleaned. Dirt and buildup can cause serious issues with high-mileage vehicles. In some cases, this can make it difficult for your car or truck to start.

Air Conditioning Check

It isn’t uncommon for older, high-mileage vehicles to have problems with their air conditioning systems. Leaks in refrigerant tend to happen more in the winter than summer because the system isn’t used much in cold months. Because it doesn’t run frequently, seals dry out. Having the unit checked during winter will help protect your system for summer.

Looking for a High Mileage Maintenance Expert in Lacey?

When you need an auto maintenance expert in Lacey, contact us at Kohout’s Automotive & Alignment Center today to speak with a technician. We consistently deliver honest diagnostics, expert advice and quality workmanship. You’ll benefit from our decades of experience so you can have full confidence in our prompt and reliable service. You can also count on us for wheel alignments, RV repairs and classic car repairs. 

Expert Auto Maintenance for High Mileage Vehicles in Lacey

Serving Customers in Lacey, JBLM, Tumwater, and Olympia

Posted on December 14, 2021 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

Have you recently bought a new car or truck in Tumwater? If so, it’s important to keep recommended routine auto maintenance in mind. Taking proper care of your vehicle now will keep it running strong for years to come. While some manufacturers provide a routine maintenance schedule, it can be hard to remember to follow it. This isn’t an excuse not to have the services performed. As you rack up the miles, it’s vital to have an auto technician maintain your vehicle. Keep the following mileage recommendations in mind as you plan for auto maintenance in Tumwater.

3,000 to 7,000 Miles

Depending on your vehicle, a professional mechanic should perform an oil change on your vehicle every 3,000 to 7,000 miles. 

15,000 to 35,000 Miles

Most technicians recommend that you have your air filter replaced every 15,000 miles driven. It’s also a good idea to check your battery every 20,000 miles. Most technicians check the filter every time they change the oil.

35,000 to 50,000 Miles

At 35,000 miles, it’s time to have your spark plugs and spark plug wires examined. Replacing worn parts early can help you avoid unnecessary breakdowns on the road. Also ask your technician to check your ignition system after 50,000 miles.

Need to Schedule Regular Auto Maintenance for Your Tumwater Vehicle?

Whether you’ve just hit 3,000 miles or 50,000 miles, it’s important to take your car or truck in for service. To receive expert advice, quality workmanship and unbeatable customer care, contact the professionals at Kohout’s Automotive & Alignment Center in Lacey today. Our highly-trained and experienced team of technicians has the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to perform all routine maintenance services. You can also count on our shop for superior wheel alignments, RV repairs and classic car repairs.

Your Auto Maintenance Experts Serving Tumwater

Serving Customers in Lacey, JBLM, Tumwater, & Olympia

Posted on November 8, 2021 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

Winter is just around the corner; it’s important to consider how this will affect your vehicle. In addition to colder temperatures, wet, slippery roads make driving more difficult. This is why so many drivers choose to buy winter car tires. Keep the following information in mind as you shop for tires for your vehicle in the JBLM area.

When are Winter Tires Recommended?

You may be wondering if winter car tires are actually necessary. The answer is it depends. If you know your area will be covered in snow, ice, or sleet a good percentage of the time this winter, it’s best to err on the side of caution. 

Are All-Season Tires Enough?

All-season tires are fantastic for areas that don’t see a lot of bad weather. These car tires are not, however, ideal for driving on snow and ice. If you’re not sure which type of tires are best-suited for your area, talk to a professional mechanic about it.

Chains Might Not Work

Would you prefer to install tire chains than buy winter car tires? This might not be a viable solution. Chains should never be used at high driving speeds and they aren’t intended for pavement.

Need Help Picking Winter Car Tires near JBLM?

Do you need help picking car tires near JBLM? A professional can help you select the ideal winter tires for your specific vehicle and driving conditions. Contact us at Kohout’s Automotive & Alignment Center in Lacey today. Our technicians have the knowledge and skills necessary to get your car squared away in no time. You can also count on us for auto repairs, RV repairs and classic car repairs.

Help with Winter Car Tires near JBLM

Serving Customers in Lacey, JBLM, Tumwater, and Olympia

Posted on October 12, 2021 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

Have you recently noticed that something’s “off” with your car or truck? It might be time to schedule auto repair near Olympia. It’s simple enough to make an appointment at a local auto shop, but preparing for auto repair includes a little more. Do these things before letting a technician perform repair services on your vehicle.

Take Notes About the Problem You’re Having

When you realize something is wrong with your car or truck, take note. Keeping a mental or written record of what you notice will make it easier for your technician to identify the underlying problem.

Clean Out Your Vehicle

If you need to schedule auto repair with a professional mechanic, clean out the interior of your vehicle before taking it in. While most of the work will probably be done under the hood, a clean car or truck will allow the technician to easily access components in your cab. It’s also a sign to the technician that you take good care of your vehicle; he or she will take better care of it because of this.

Request a Written Quote

Most shops will provide a quote for auto repair services for free. Take time to understand the recommended repairs and ask any questions you might have.

Ready to Schedule Auto Repair Services near Olympia?

Now that you know how to prepare for your trip to the auto shop, contact us at Kohout’s Automotive & Alignment Center in Lacey. Our highly-trained team consistently delivers honest diagnostics, expert advice, quality workmanship, and unbeatable customer care. The mechanics in our shop have the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to perform most maintenance and repair services. You can also count on us for wheel alignments, RV repairs and classic car repairs.

Preparing for Auto Repair: Your Experts near Olympia

Serving Customers in Lacey, JBLM, Tumwater, and Olympia

Posted on September 14, 2021 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business