Inland Sales & Service Blog

Winter in Spokane, WA, can bring freezing temperatures, snow, icy roads, and challenging driving conditions. Preparing your vehicle before the cold weather arrives can help you stay safe and maintain reliable performance throughout the season. The mechanic can inspect critical systems, identify developing problems, and recommend repairs before winter conditions begin. At Inland Sales & Service, we provide expert winter auto maintenance in the greater Spokane area. Here are four ways the mechanic can help prepare your car for the Spokane winter. Battery and Charging System Inspection Cold weather puts additional strain on your car's battery, making it harder to start the engine on freezing Spokane mornings. During a winter maintenance appointment, your mechanic can test the battery's condition, inspect terminals for corrosion, and verify that electrical connections are secure. They can also evaluate the alternator and charging system to ensure the battery receives the power it needs. If your battery is weakening, replacing it before winter arrives can help prevent breakdowns and leave you better prepared for cold-weather travel. Brake Inspection Reliable brakes are essential when navigating Spokane's snow-covered streets and slick intersections. The mechanic can inspect your brake pads, rotors, calipers, and brake lines for excessive wear, damage, or leaks. They can also check brake fluid condition and ensure the braking system operates as intended. If components are worn or damaged, replacing them before winter can help your vehicle stop more reliably when road conditions become slippery. Check Essential Fluids Your vehicle depends on several fluids to operate reliably in cold weather. The mechanic can inspect engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Your mechanic can also check for leaks and ensure fluid levels are correct. Maintaining these fluids helps protect critical components and reduces the risk of preventable mechanical problems during winter. Check the Heater and Defroster A properly functioning heating system helps keep you comfortable, while a reliable defroster is essential for maintaining clear visibility. Your mechanic can evaluate heater performance and check the blower motor and airflow controls. They can also verify that the front and rear defrosters, where equipped, work effectively. Addressing heating or defrosting issues before temperatures drop helps ensure you can clear condensation and frost from your windows and maintain a comfortable cabin during winter commutes. Winter Auto Maintenance in Airway Heights, WA For expert auto maintenance in Airway Heights and the surrounding Spokane area, contact Inland Sales & Service at (509) 202-4025. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment for car care in greater Spokane, WA!

Brake components develop wear with every stop, making routine inspections and timely repairs an important part of vehicle maintenance. Knowing the answers to common brake repair questions can help you recognize potential problems and understand why professional service is important when your brakes are not performing normally. At Inland Sales & Service, our local mechanics are happy to answer your questions about brake repair in the greater Spokane area. What Are the Warning Signs of Brake Problems? Several symptoms can indicate that your brakes need attention. Squealing or grinding noises may point to worn brake pads. You may also notice vibrations when braking, a soft or spongy brake pedal, pulling to one side, or increased stopping distances. A brake warning light on the dashboard can also indicate a problem. Any unusual change in braking performance should be inspected promptly. What Does Brake Repair Generally Involve? Brake repair can involve several different services depending on what has worn out or become damaged. A technician may replace brake pads, rotors, calipers, brake lines, or other components. Some vehicles may require additional brake system services. A professional inspection helps identify the source of the problem so the appropriate components can be repaired or replaced. Is It Safe to Drive With Worn Brakes? Driving with significantly worn or malfunctioning brakes can be extremely dangerous. Continuing to drive can also allow a relatively minor issue to develop into more extensive brake damage. If your brakes are making unusual noises or performing differently, have them inspected as soon as possible. Why Should Brake Repairs Be Done Professionally? Brake systems require accurate diagnosis and proper installation to function correctly. Professional technicians have the equipment and training needed to inspect brake components, identify problems, and perform repairs according to appropriate procedures. Professional service can also help ensure that related brake components are checked for signs of wear or damage. Where Can I Get Brake Repair in Airway Heights, WA? For expert brake repair in Airway Heights, WA and the surrounding Spokane area, contact Inland Sales & Service at (509) 202-4025. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment for car care in greater Spokane, WA!

Your vehicle's transmission is one of its most important and complex mechanical systems. It manages the transfer of power from the engine to the wheels and must withstand significant heat, friction, and pressure during everyday driving. While some transmission problems are unavoidable, consistent maintenance and attentive driving can help reduce the risk of major trouble. At Inland Sales & Service, we provide expert transmission service in the greater Spokane area. Here are four tips for preventing serious transmission issues. Stay Current With Transmission Fluid Service Transmission fluid lubricates internal components, helps control operating temperatures, and supports proper shifting. Over time, fluid can become contaminated or lose some of its effectiveness. Follow the service schedule recommended for your vehicle and use the correct type of fluid. If you notice a low fluid level or signs of a leak, have the transmission inspected rather than simply continuing to add fluid. Address Warning Signs Promptly Small transmission problems can potentially develop into much larger ones when ignored. Slipping gears, delayed engagement, harsh shifting, unusual noises, burning odors, and fluid leaks should all receive professional attention. Continuing to drive with noticeable symptoms can place additional stress on internal components. Having the problem diagnosed early may allow a technician to address the underlying issue before more extensive damage occurs. Practice Smooth Driving Habits Your driving style can affect transmission wear over time. Avoid repeatedly accelerating aggressively, shifting between reverse and drive before the vehicle has completely stopped, or carrying loads beyond the vehicle's recommended capacity. Allowing the transmission to engage properly and driving smoothly can reduce unnecessary strain on internal components. These simple habits can contribute to long-term transmission health. Have the Transmission Professionally Inspected Routine professional inspections can help identify developing problems before they become major. A technician can check for leaks, inspect fluid condition, evaluate shifting performance, and look for other warning signs that may not be obvious to the driver. Professional service is particularly valuable if your vehicle has high mileage, performs heavy-duty work, or has previously had transmission problems. Transmission Service in Airway Heights, WA For expert transmission service in Airway Heights and the surrounding Spokane area, contact Inland Sales & Service at (509) 202-4025. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

Your vehicle's suspension system plays a vital role in providing a smooth ride and responsive handling. Made up of components such as shocks, struts, springs, control arms, ball joints, and bushings, the suspension absorbs road impacts while helping your tires maintain consistent contact with the pavement. As these parts wear out, your vehicle's comfort, stability, and safety can be affected. If you've noticed changes in how your vehicle drives, you may have questions about suspension repair. At Inland Sales & Service, our local mechanics are happy to answer your questions about suspension repair in the greater Spokane area. What Are the Signs that My Suspension Needs Repair? There are several warning signs that may indicate suspension problems. Excessive bouncing after driving over bumps, a rough or unusually harsh ride, clunking or squeaking noises, uneven tire wear, pulling to one side, or excessive body roll when turning are all common symptoms. You may also notice that your vehicle sits lower on one corner due to a broken spring. If any of these issues develop, a professional inspection can identify the worn or damaged components. What Causes Suspension Components to Wear Out? Suspension parts are constantly subjected to stress from potholes, rough roads, speed bumps, and everyday driving. Over time, shocks and struts lose their ability to absorb impacts, while bushings, ball joints, and control arms wear down with age and mileage. Frequent driving on poorly maintained roads and carrying heavy loads can accelerate wear and shorten the lifespan of suspension components. Can I Continue Driving with Suspension Problems? Although your vehicle may still be drivable, it's generally not a good idea to ignore suspension issues. Worn suspension components can reduce steering precision, increase stopping distances, contribute to uneven tire wear, and make your vehicle less stable during emergency maneuvers. What begins as a minor repair can become a larger and more expensive problem if damaged components place additional stress on other parts of the suspension or steering system. How Is a Suspension Problem Diagnosed? A mechanic will perform a thorough inspection of the suspension and steering systems. This typically includes checking the shocks, struts, springs, ball joints, control arms, bushings, sway bar links, and other components for wear or damage. The technician may also inspect tire wear patterns, evaluate vehicle ride height, and perform a road test to identify handling concerns. This comprehensive evaluation helps determine exactly which parts require repair or replacement. Where Can I Get Suspension Repair in Airway Heights, WA? For expert suspension repair in Airway Heights and the surrounding Spokane area, contact Inland Sales & Service at (509) 202-4025. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment for car care in greater Spokane, WA!

Your vehicle's alternator is responsible for generating electricity and keeping the battery charged while the engine is running. Without a properly functioning alternator, your car's electrical systems cannot operate correctly, and eventually the vehicle may fail to start altogether. Struggling alternators often provide warning signs before complete failure occurs. Recognizing these symptoms early can help you avoid a breakdown. At Inland Sales & Service, we provide expert alternator replacement and auto electric repair in the greater Spokane area. Here are five warning signs that you may need alternator replacement. Battery Warning Light Some drivers might assume the battery warning light always indicates a bad battery, but it often points to a charging system problem. If the battery-shaped warning light illuminates on your dashboard, it could mean the alternator is no longer charging the battery properly. Prompt diagnosis is important to determine the exact cause. Difficulty Starting the Vehicle A failing alternator may not keep the battery adequately charged. As a result, the battery can become depleted, causing difficulty starting the vehicle. If your car frequently needs jump-starts despite having a relatively healthy battery, the alternator may be the real issue. Problems with Lights One of the most common symptoms of a failing alternator is dim or flickering lights. Headlights, dashboard lights, and interior lights may appear weaker than normal or fluctuate in brightness while driving. This occurs because the alternator is struggling to provide a steady flow of electrical power to the vehicle. Electrical Accessories Acting Erratically Modern vehicles rely heavily on electrical systems. If power windows, radio systems, dashboard displays, seat controls, or other accessories begin malfunctioning, insufficient electrical output from the alternator may be to blame. These problems often become more noticeable as alternator performance declines. Unusual Noises Under the Hood A failing alternator may produce grinding, whining, or squealing noises while the engine is running. These may arise due to bearing or belt issues. Unusual sounds should be promptly inspected. Alternator Replacement & Auto Electric Repair in Airway Heights, WA For expert auto repair in Airway Heights and the surrounding Spokane area, contact Inland Sales & Service at (509) 202-4025. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!







