With winter about to begin, winterizing your car is not only smart, it’s necessary for the safety of you and your passengers. No one wants to have an auto emergency in the middle of a snowstorm, in the freezing cold, with no auto service or repair center in sight.  Follow these winter car maintenance tips to ensure safe travel this winter season.

1. Check Your Lights

It’s not just colder during the winter; it’s darker too! Your usually sunny morning and evening commute may now be consistently a nighttime drive. This is why it’s important to have your auto repair specialist check the lights as part of your winter car maintenance. If other drivers can’t see your vehicle in low visibility, you’re at risk of being hit by someone who can’t see you.

2. Test Your Battery Voltage

Car batteries work better when it’s warmer. As the weather gets colder, it’s possible that issues with your battery will become more apparent. Have your batter voltage tested, just to be safe, when you take your vehicle in for winter maintenance.

3. Have Your Brakes & Tires Examined

If your brakes aren’t in good condition, or if your tires don’t have good treads, you increase our chances of slipping or skidding on icy roads. These are relatively simple fixes, but not if you’re already stuck in a snowstorm. Check these basic safety precautions prior to dropping temperatures to maximize your safety on winter roads.

Need Car Maintenance This Winter in Lacey?

For car maintenance or repairs this winter, bring your vehicle to Kohout’s Automotive & Alignment Center. Our highly-trained and experienced technicians are prepared to handle any needed maintenance, as well as RV repairs and wheel alignment. Contact us today for more information about our shop and services. 

Recommended Winter Car Maintenance Services in Lacey

Serving Customers in Lacey, JBLM, Tumwater, and Olympia

Posted on December 8, 2020 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

There are certain things you can ignore while driving in Tumwater. Others, however, need attention if you want to stay on the road. Don’t put off engine maintenance if you become aware of any of the following warning signs while driving.

Abnormal Exhaust

Normal exhaust from your vehicle should be light and disappear quickly. If you notice your exhaust lingers or is a black or dark blue color, it may be time to schedule engine maintenance. Improper ratios of fuel and oxygen can cause these exhaust issues. They should be handled by an auto technician immediately.

Strange Noises

Most modern cars are good at telling you when your car needs to be looked at.  If you notice unusual ticking, metal grinding or tapping noises, take your vehicle to your mechanic. Your local auto repair shop can listen to your vehicle and determine the cause of the noises before extensive damage occurs.

Reduction in Engine Power

There are a variety of reasons for reduced power. If your vehicle hesitates or struggles when accelerating, seek help from a professional as soon as possible. Continuing to force your vehicle through a reduced power issue can permanently damage your engine.

Ready to Schedule Engine Maintenance near Tumwater?

Do you need to schedule engine maintenance for your car or truck near Tumwater? Let the highly-trained and experienced professional staff at Kohout’s Automotive & Alignment Center of Lacey diagnose your engine problems today. Our knowledgeable technicians are also well versed in RV repairs, wheel alignments, and classic car repairs. Visit our website for more information about our company or contact us today to schedule an appointment for expert engine maintenance in Tumwater today.

Professional Engine Maintenance Services near Tumwater

Serving Customers in Lacey, JBLM, Tumwater & Olympia

Posted on November 10, 2020 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

Are your car tires in good condition? Many car owners can’t say for sure. If you need help assessing them, head to your local auto service and repair center. A professional auto technician will be able to help. Additionally, did you know there are several things you should do year round to ensure your tires function properly? Not only will you and your car be safer on the road, your tires will last longer as well. Here are several car tire care tasks to do regularly.

1. Examine Your Tires During Seasonal Changes

Temperature changes can impact your car tires. As the seasons change, make sure you check your tire pressure. If it’s low, address this immediately.  You and your car will be safer on the road.

2. Have Your Tires Rotated

When driving, the rubber on your car tires gradually wears away. Depending on where your tires are placed and how your vehicle drives, each one wears differently. Having an auto repair specialist rotate your tires regularly will help them last longer.  In fact, your tires may last twice as long.

3. Check Tire Tread Regularly

The tread on your car tires keeps your vehicle from sliding. This is especially important during inclement weather. Check your tire tread depth regularly to ensure it hasn’t worn down too much. You can do this by placing a penny head first into several tread grooves across the tire. If you always see the top of Lincoln’s head, your treads are shallow and worn.

Need Professional Car Tire Care Near Olympia?

Taking care of your tires properly will help them last longer and keep you and your loved ones safer. Get the tire advice and service you need at Kohout’s Automotive & Alignment Center today. We also offer RV repairs and wheel alignment. To learn more about our company and the services we offer, visit our website. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our highly-trained and experienced technicians.

Experienced Car Tire Care Near Olympia

Serving Customers in Lacey, JBLM, Tumwater, and Olympia

Posted on October 13, 2020 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

How can you, as the driver, tell that you need a wheel alignment? You may not be aware that your vehicle’s alignment plays a key role in your driving safety in Lacey. Improper alignment can result in premature wear and tear for your suspension, as well as your vehicle’s tires. Here are indications you may need a wheel alignment in Lacey.

1. It’s Been Awhile

Your vehicle’s alignment is quite adjustable. Over time, these components will naturally begin to shift out of position. You should arrange for wheel alignments at least once a year, even under optimal driving conditions.

2. Aggressive Driving

Steering and suspension are both related to alignment. If you consistently take turns at high speeds, or engage in heavy stop-and-go driving, you need to arrange for a visit to your local auto repair shop in Lacey for a wheel alignment check.

3. Accidents, Curbs, and Potholes

While accidents result in improper alignment, curbs and potholes do their fair share as well. They send abrupt shocks to your steering and suspension components, which can quickly affect your vehicle’s performance. Encountering these hazards will increase the need for more frequent alignment services. 

Do You Need a Wheel Alignment In Lacey?

Are you unsure whether your vehicle needs an alignment? Let the expert technicians at Kohout’s Automotive & Alignment Center of Lacey assess your alignment today. Our highly-trained and experienced staff is also prepared to handle any additional maintenance, as well as RV repairs and classic car repairs. Visit our website for more information about our shop and services. For auto repair and alignment you can trust, contact us today.  You can expect to be treated right. And don’t forget to check out our special online offers!

Your Experts in Wheel Alignment in Lacey

Serving Customers in Lacey, JBLM, Tumwater, and Olympia

Posted on September 9, 2020 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

Everyone’s guilty of it now and then. You get busy with work, the kids, or home improvement projects, so you skip an oil change or two. To keep your vehicle in Tumwater running properly, you should have your oil changed every 3,000 miles driven. If you travel a lot, that may seem excessive. It will, however, keep your car on the road longer. Here are several reasons why you should regularly take your vehicle to an auto service and repair center for an oil change.

1. Your Engine Needs Oil to Stay Lubricated

Any auto repair specialist will tell you that a well-lubricated engine performs better and lasts longer. Without oil, engine parts can wear down.

2. Oiled Parts Resist Rusting Better

Finding rust on or inside your vehicle is never good. It can be extremely damaging. To avoid costly repairs and part replacements, have oil changes performed on a regular basis.

3. Overheating is Less Likely

While the chance of overheating your vehicle is higher during the summer when temperatures are already so high, temperature maintenance is vital year round. Your car has an easier time maintaining the appropriate heat levels while you drive when your oil is clean.

Do You Need to Schedule an Oil Change Near Tumwater?

Whether you’ve just hit the 3000-mile mark or have been over it for weeks, it’s important to take your car in for an oil change. Not sure where to go? One of the helpful and knowledgeable auto technicians at Kohout’s Automotive & Alignment Center will be happy to help. Visit our website for more information about our many automotive services, including RV repairs and wheel alignment. Contact us to schedule an appointment today.

Quality Oil Change and Automotive Services Near Tumwater

Serving Customers in Lacey, JBLM, Tumwater, and Olympia

Posted on August 11, 2020 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

It’s easy to overlook small issues with your vehicle, especially when you’re busy with work and daily life activities. Postponing even minor general auto repair, however, can cause much larger issues down the road. If you know you need repairs, take your car to an auto technician right away. In some cases, though, it can be difficult to know if repairs are needed. Here are several signs it’s time to take your vehicle to an auto service and repair center as soon as possible.

Dashboard Warning Indicators

With so many warning lights, it can be hard to determine what they actually mean. If a warning light activates, get your car to an auto repair specialist right away.

Strange Noises

Your car should never make noises while you’re driving it. Squealing, grinding, growling, or groaning noises all indicate there’s a serious issue with your vehicle. Have it examined by a professional as soon as you can.

Leaking Fluids When Parked

Have you noticed a brownish or greenish pool of liquid under your car when it’s parked? This can indicate you’re leaking oil or radiator fluid. Don’t wait to address this, because it won’t simply go away, and could cause even more issues.

Call Us For General Auto Repair Services in JBLM

Are you experiencing at least one of the above mentioned signs in JBLM? To get the service and customer care you and your vehicle need, contact Kohout’s Automotive & Alignment Center today. We’ll be happy to help determine the cause of the issue and address it. We offer a wide variety of services, including RV repairs and wheel alignment. For more information about our company, visit our website. Contact us to schedule an appointment with one of our technicians today.

Expert General Auto Repair Services in JBLM

Serving Customers in Lacey, JBLM, Tumwater, and Olympia

Posted on July 10, 2020 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

Car maintenance is always important, but taking proper care of your vehicle is imperative during the hot months of summer. Are you preparing for a big family road trip across the country or just commuting to work every day? It’s important to take your car in for any necessary auto service and repairs. To help ensure your vehicle continues running well, here are several summer car maintenance tips.

Check Car Fluids

It’s important to have your local auto technician check your car fluids every summer. Liquid evaporates over time and especially when exposed to heat, so ask your auto specialist to top car fluids off. Changing your oil is also necessary. This will keep your engine better lubricated and decrease the chance of your car’s overheating.

Inspect Your Tires

Have your tires inspected. This is particularly important if you plan to take any long trips this summer. Temperature changes impact your tires the most, as rapid cooling and heating can cause a drop in air pressure. Your auto specialist will be able to check this, as well as perform wheel alignment if necessary.

Wash and Wax Your Car

While this may not be a job for your local auto repair specialist, washing and waxing your car during the summer is important. Dirt left on your vehicle can cause damage and, if unattended, result in rusting. Wash and wax your car every summer to keep it looking and functioning like new.

Need Professional Summer Car Maintenance in Lacey?

If you need car maintenance, contact Kohout’s Automotive & Alignment Center today. Contact us for information about our car and RV repairs.  We’re conveniently located in Olympia and our experienced technicians are ready to serve you!  We also specialize in classic car repair.

Summer Car Maintenance for Lacey Residents

Serving Customers in Lacey, JBLM, Tumwater, and Olympia

Posted on June 9, 2020 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

Is your car’s check engine light on? There are a number of dashboard warnings that cause concern. The engine light is definitely one of them. Unfortunately, there’s not just one reason this light activates; there are over 100 possible causes. So it’s absolutely vital you have your vehicle examined by a professional auto technician as soon as possible. To help better prepare you for your auto service and repairs appointment, here are some of the most common reasons your check engine light may be on.

1. Check Your Gas Cap

Before heading to see your local auto repair specialist, you should check your gas cap. Some check engine lights activate because the gas cap is missing, damaged or not screwed on quite right. While this isn’t serious, it’s good to take care of right away.

2. Oxygen Sensor May be Malfunctioning

It’s also possible your car or truck’s oxygen sensor is malfunctioning. The oxygen sensor tracks oxygen burn and lets the engine’s computer know if your combustion chamber is functioning properly. When you have a bad oxygen sensor, your vehicle will run less efficiently. It can sometimes have a poor idle, erratic jerking at steady throttle, hard starting problems, and will cause high fuel consumption.

3. It Could be a Spark Plug

A broken spark plug is another common culprit. Spark plugs are small, but very important. If yours aren’t functioning properly, they can cause a number of issues for your vehicle, including preventing it from starting.

Want to Find Out Why Your Check Engine Light is On?

If your check engine light is on, get the service you need at Kohout’s Automotive & Alignment Center today. For more information about our company and the many services we offer, including RV repairs and wheel alignment, contact us today.

Why the Check Engine Light is Important for Drivers in Lacey

Serving Customers in Lacey, JBLM, Tumwater, and Olympia

Posted on May 7, 2020 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

Whether you’ve recently been in a car accident, need auto repairs, or just need a tune-up, finding the right automotive and alignment center for you can be daunting. Don’t trust your vehicle with just anyone. Even seemingly minor adjustments, like wheel alignment, should be performed by a professionally certified auto technician. Here are a few tips to help you find qualified, reliable auto technicians in your area.

Ask Family, Friends, and Neighbors

When you’re looking for a reliable automotive and alignment center, the first thing you should do is ask people you know for recommendations. Family, friends, neighbors, and co-workers can offer great insight, especially if they’ve lived in the area for a while. Take special note of any shops you hear mentioned more than once.

Research Your Prospects

Once you’ve compiled a list from your circle of contacts, do some of your own research. Spend some time visiting company websites and reading through the information you find there. Reading through customer reviews can be really helpful in determining whether a specific company is the right choice for you and your vehicle. Make sure you read as many reviews as you can find. Pay attention to small details and note the areas the shop seems to excel in. You may find some companies have great reviews pertaining to RV repairs, but are less proficient at brake work. If you’re looking for classic car repairs, look for reviews pertaining to that.  

Looking for a Reliable Automotive Center?

Your search for an automotive and alignment center in your area you can trust is over! Contact Kohout’s Automotive & Alignment Center today to speak with a certified technician. We’ll be happy to answer any of your questions. 

The Automotive and Alignment Center Customers Rely On

Serving Customers in Lacey, JBLM, Tumwater, & Olympia

Posted on April 8, 2020 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

Do You Need Immediate Auto Service in Lacey?

As a car owner, you need to be able to recognize when something is amiss with your vehicle. Some issues that occur with your car are relatively minor annoyances that don’t necessarily require professional auto repair. The items on the following list are not in that category. If you experience any of the following signs with your car, then you need immediate auto service.

1. Smoke Blowing from Under the Hood

Something is seriously wrong if your car has smoke coming from under the hood. It could be a sign that the engine is overheating. Continuing to drive at that point will cause serious damage.

If you are in the middle of the road, pull over and wait for the engine to cool down. Call for a tow truck to take your car to a repair shop right away.

2. Check Engine Light is Flashing

If the light is illuminated, it’s a sign to take your car to the nearest shop. It’s impossible to know exactly what the problem is simply because the light is on.

However, if the light is flashing, you need to have a mechanic check your car right away. It may be a sign that there is a problem with your emissions system. If you continue to drive in this condition, you could damage your catalytic converter.

3. Transmission Problems (Sudden or Recurring)

Pay close attention to how your car is operating on a regular basis. If you notice that it has surges or is sluggish reaching certain speeds, you’ll want to take it to a mechanic for immediate auto service.

4. Noises While Driving

If your car is making grinding or squealing sounds while driving, it may indicate faulty brakes. A dragging or droning sound could be linked to an issue with your wheel bearings. Either way, you need a licensed technician to check it out.

5. Leaks Under your Car

Don’t ignore fluid leaks under your car where you usually park. Bright green fluid is from anti-freeze. Dark red or brown fluid could be engine oil, brake fluid, or transmission fluid. Your mechanic can determine the cause of the leak and make the necessary repair for you before it leads to further damage.

If you need auto service immediately or would like to schedule any type of auto repair work for your car, contact Kohut’s Automotive & Alignment Center today. We perform repairs on all vehicles, including RVs and classic cars.

All Makes and Models of Cars, We Repair Them All

Serving Customers in Lacey, JBLM, Tumwater, Olympia

Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Busines