Special Offers for Auto Care in Airway Heights, WA
Inland Sales & Service Blog
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!
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!
The check engine light is one of the most important warning indicators on your vehicle’s dashboard. While the light may sometimes point to a minor issue, it can also signal more serious engine problems that require immediate attention. Ignoring the check engine light can allow problems to worsen and lead to more expensive repairs. At Inland Sales & Service, we provide expert check engine light diagnostics and repair in the greater Spokane area. Here are four common reasons the check engine light may come on. Faulty Oxygen Sensor Oxygen sensors monitor the amount of oxygen in the exhaust system and help regulate fuel efficiency and emissions. Over time, these sensors can wear out. A failing oxygen sensor may reduce fuel-economy, increase emissions, and negatively affect engine performance. Replacing a faulty sensor promptly helps maintain proper engine operation. Problems With the Catalytic Converter The catalytic converter helps reduce harmful exhaust emissions produced by the engine. If the converter becomes clogged or damaged, the vehicle may suffer from reduced power, poor acceleration, and decreased fuel-efficiency. Catalytic converter problems can affect other components, such as oxygen sensors, and should be addressed ASAP. Mass Airflow Sensor Issues The mass airflow sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine so the computer can maintain the proper fuel mixture. When this sensor becomes dirty or fails, the engine may run inefficiently and trigger the check engine light. Drivers may notice rough idling, stalling, or reduced fuel-economy. Cleaning or replacing the sensor can often restore normal engine performance. Malfunctioning Spark Plugs or Ignition Coils Spark plugs and ignition coils are responsible for igniting the air-fuel mixture inside the engine cylinders. Worn spark plugs or failing ignition coils can cause engine misfires, rough idling, hesitation, and poor acceleration. Replacing worn ignition components helps restore smooth engine performance and prevents potentially bigger problems. Check Engine Light 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 schedule an appointment!
Planning a road trip is exciting, but the last thing you want is car trouble miles away from home. Long drives put extra strain on your vehicle, making it essential to ensure everything is in top condition before you hit the road. The mechanic can help identify potential issues, perform preventive maintenance, and give you peace of mind for your adventure. At Inland Sales & Service, our local mechanics can complete auto maintenance tasks to get your car ready before you head out. Here are four important ways a mechanic can prepare your vehicle for a smooth and safe road trip. Comprehensive Vehicle Inspection Before a long journey, a mechanic can perform a thorough inspection of your vehicle. This includes checking key systems such as the engine, brakes, suspension, and exhaust. Identifying worn or damaged components early can help prevent breakdowns while you’re traveling. A comprehensive inspection helps ensure that your vehicle is road-ready and capable of handling extended driving conditions. Fluid Checks and Top-Offs Fluids play a crucial role in your vehicle’s performance. A mechanic can check and top off essential fluids such as engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and windshield washer fluid. They’ll also look for signs of leaks or contamination. Proper fluid levels help maintain engine health, prevent overheating, and promote smooth operation throughout your trip. Battery and Electrical System Check A failing battery can quickly derail your road trip plans. The mechanic can test your battery’s charge and inspect the electrical system to ensure everything is functioning properly. This includes checking connections, the alternator, and the starter. Ensuring your battery is in good condition helps prevent unexpected issues like a car that won’t start after a stop. Brake System Evaluation Reliable brakes are essential for safe travel, especially when driving in unfamiliar areas or varying terrain. The mechanic can inspect brake pads, rotors, and fluid levels to ensure your braking system is functioning correctly. Addressing any signs of wear or damage before your trip helps maintain stopping power and overall safety on the road. 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!
Your vehicle’s shocks are a crucial part of the suspension system, helping to absorb bumps, maintain tire contact with the road, and provide a smooth ride. Over time, shocks wear out due to constant use and exposure to rough driving conditions. When they begin to fail, you may notice changes in how your vehicle handles. Ignoring these signs can lead to reduced safety and more costly repairs. At Inland Sales & Service, we provide expert suspension repair in the greater Spokane area. Here are five common signs that your vehicle’s shocks may need to be replaced. Excessive Bouncing After Bumps If your vehicle continues to bounce after driving over a bump, it’s a clear warning sign that your shocks are no longer doing their job effectively. Properly functioning shocks should quickly stabilize the vehicle after impact. Excessive bouncing can reduce your ability to maintain control, especially on uneven roads. Nose Diving When Braking A noticeable forward lurch or “nose dive” when braking is another indication of worn shocks. This happens when the shocks can no longer control the transfer of weight from the rear to the front of the vehicle. As a result, braking performance may be compromised, and stopping distances can increase. Uneven or Accelerated Tire Wear Worn shocks can cause your tires to lose consistent contact with the road, leading to uneven or rapid tire wear. You may notice cupping or patchy tread patterns on your tires. This not only shortens the life of your tires but also reduces traction, making your vehicle less safe to drive. Poor Handling and Reduced Stability If your vehicle feels less stable when turning or changing lanes, your shocks may be worn out. You might also experience increased body roll when cornering. These issues can make it harder to control your vehicle, especially in more challenging driving conditions like wet or winding roads. Fluid Leaks on the Shocks Shock absorbers rely on hydraulic fluid to function properly. If you notice fluid leaking from the shocks, it’s a strong indication that they are failing. Leaking shocks cannot effectively absorb impacts, which leads to a rougher ride. This is typically a sign that replacement is needed. Suspension 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 schedule an appointment!
Your vehicle’s fuel system plays a critical role in delivering the right amount of fuel to the engine for proper combustion. When this system isn’t functioning correctly, it can lead to performance issues and reduced fuel-efficiency. Because many fuel system components work together, problems can sometimes be difficult to pinpoint without professional help. At Inland Sales & Service, our local mechanics are happy to answer your questions about fuel system repair in the greater Spokane area. What Are the Common Warning Signs of Fuel System Problems? Common signs of fuel system trouble include difficulty starting your vehicle, engine misfires, poor acceleration, and decreased fuel-efficiency. You may also notice rough idling, stalling, or a strong fuel odor. In some cases, the check engine light may illuminate, indicating an issue with fuel delivery or related sensors. These symptoms often suggest clogged fuel injectors, a failing fuel pump, or a blocked fuel filter. Addressing these warning signs promptly can often prevent more serious engine complications. What Components Are Part of the Fuel System? A typical fuel system consists of the fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel lines, and sensors. The pump moves fuel from the tank to the engine, while the fuel filter removes contaminants that could damage internal components. Fuel injectors then deliver precise amounts of fuel into the combustion chamber. Each part must function correctly to ensure optimal engine performance and efficiency. Can Fuel Injectors Be Cleaned Instead of Replaced? In many cases, clogged fuel injectors can be professionally cleaned rather than replaced. Cleaning services remove buildup and restore proper spray patterns. However, if injectors are severely damaged, replacement may be necessary. A technician can inspect the injectors and determine whether cleaning will resolve the issue or if replacement is required. Why Is Professional Fuel System Repair Important? Fuel systems are complex and require accurate diagnostics to identify the root cause of a problem. Professional technicians use specialized equipment to test fuel pressure, inspect injectors, and evaluate electronic components. Proper repairs ensure the system operates efficiently and safely. Attempting DIY repairs without the right tools or expertise can lead to additional damage or safety hazards. Investing in professional fuel system repair protects your vehicle’s performance and longevity. Where Can I Get Fuel System Repair in Airway Heights, WA? For expert fuel system 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 cooling system plays a critical role in keeping the engine from overheating. By regulating temperature and preventing excessive heat buildup, it helps protect vital engine components. When the cooling system develops a problem, it can quickly lead to breakdowns and expensive repairs. Understanding the answers to common questions about cooling system repair can help you recognize issues early. At Inland Sales & Service, we’re happy to answer your questions about cooling system repair in the greater Spokane area. What Does the Cooling System Do? The cooling system circulates coolant through the engine to absorb excess heat and carry it away. The heated coolant then flows to the radiator, where air passing through the fins cools it before it returns to the engine. Key components include the radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, cooling fans, and the coolant itself. Each part works together to maintain a stable operating temperature. If any component fails, the system may struggle to keep the engine cool. What Are the Signs of a Cooling System Problem? Common warning signs include an overheating engine, a temperature gauge that rises higher than normal, or steam coming from under the hood. You might also notice coolant leaks under the vehicle, low coolant levels, or a sweet smell. These symptoms should be checked promptly to prevent engine damage. What Causes Cooling System Failures? Cooling system issues can develop from normal wear and tear over time. Hoses can crack or weaken, leading to leaks. Radiators may become clogged with debris or corroded internally, reducing their ability to dissipate heat. A failing water pump can prevent proper coolant circulation, while a stuck thermostat can block coolant flow. Even something as simple as old, contaminated coolant can reduce the system’s efficiency. How Can I Prevent Cooling System Problems? Routine maintenance is the best way to avoid major cooling system repairs. Replacing coolant at recommended intervals and inspecting hoses and belts for wear can help catch issues early. Addressing small leaks or temperature fluctuations right away prevents bigger problems later. Staying proactive with maintenance helps extend engine life and reduces the risk of overheating on the road. Where Can I Get Cooling System Repair in Airway Heights, WA? For expert cooling system 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!
Healthy shocks play a crucial role in keeping your ride smooth, stable, and safe. They help control suspension movement, maintain tire contact with the road, and improve handling during turns and braking. But as they age, shocks naturally wear out, often so gradually that drivers don’t immediately notice the change. Recognizing the warning signs early can help you restore ride comfort and avoid more serious suspension issues. At Inland Sales & Service, we provide expert suspension repair in the greater Spokane area. Here are four common signs that it’s time for shock replacement. Excessive Bouncing After Bumps One of the most common signs of worn shocks is excessive bouncing after driving over bumps. If your vehicle continues to bounce several times instead of settling quickly, the shocks may no longer be controlling suspension movement effectively. This lack of stability can make driving uncomfortable and reduce your ability to maintain control on rough surfaces. Uneven or Rapid Tire Wear Shocks that are past their prime can allow tires to lose consistent contact with the road. This often results in uneven tire wear patterns. Not only does this shorten the lifespan of your tires, but it can also reduce traction and handling. Replacing worn shocks can help protect your tires and improve overall driving safety. Poor Handling If your car feels unstable when turning corners, sways excessively, or feels loose at highway speeds, worn shocks may be to blame. Shocks are essential for keeping your vehicle balanced and responsive. When they lose effectiveness, handling suffers, making the vehicle harder to control in curves or during sudden maneuvers. Longer Stopping Distances Worn shocks can significantly affect braking performance. Because shocks help keep the tires firmly planted on the road, failing shocks may cause reduced traction during braking. This can result in longer stopping distances and decreased control in emergency situations. Replacing worn shocks can restore proper suspension performance and help improve braking efficiency. Suspension Repair in Airway Heights, WA When you need auto repair in Airway Heights and the surrounding Spokane area, contact Inland Sales & Service at (509) 202-4025. At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment for car care in greater Spokane!
Regular oil changes are one of the most cost-effective ways to protect your vehicle’s engine. Yet they are also one of the most commonly delayed maintenance tasks. Busy schedules often lead drivers to put off this essential service. However, postponing oil changes can create expensive and long-lasting problems under the hood. At Inland Sales & Service, we provide full-service oil changes in the greater Spokane, WA area. Here’s a look at four reasons to always stay on top of your recommended oil change intervals. Clean Oil Keeps the Engine Properly Lubricated Engine oil’s primary job is to lubricate moving parts so they can operate smoothly without grinding together. When oil becomes old or contaminated, it loses its ability to provide proper lubrication. This leads to increased friction, premature wear, and potential damage to vital internal components. Sticking to your oil change schedule helps ensure that fresh, clean oil is always circulating and protecting the engine. Fresh Oil Helps Regulate Engine Temperature Oil does more than just keep parts moving smoothly—it also helps carry heat away. Over time, oil breaks down and becomes less effective at absorbing and dispersing heat. When this happens, the engine may be more likely to overheat, which creates tremendous stress on engine parts. Regular oil changes help maintain stable operating temperatures and reduce the risk of overheating-related damage. Regular Oil Changes Improve Fuel-Efficiency Engines that run smoothly and efficiently use less fuel. When oil is old and contaminated, the engine must work harder to overcome internal friction. This added effort increases fuel consumption, leading to higher costs at the pump. By keeping fresh oil in the system, you help your engine operate efficiently, reduce unnecessary strain, and improve overall fuel-economy. Over the life of your vehicle, these savings can be significant. Staying on Schedule Helps Maximize Engine Life Perhaps the biggest benefit of regular oil changes is the long-term protection they provide. Clean oil prevents wear, reduces heat, and maintains proper engine performance. Consistently replacing your oil helps the engine last longer and reduces the likelihood of major repairs. For drivers who want to maximize the lifespan of their vehicle, following the oil change schedule is essential. Full-Service Oil Change in Airway Heights, WA When you need 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!
Winter in Spokane can be unpredictable, bringing snow and icy roads. These harsh conditions can take a toll on your vehicle and make driving more challenging and dangerous. Preparing your car ahead of time helps ensure you stay safe and warm, even when weather gets nasty. At Inland Sales & Service, we provide expert winter auto maintenance in the greater Spokane area. Here are five tips for getting your vehicle ready for the Spokane winter. Get Your Battery Tested Cold weather puts extra strain on car batteries. Low temperatures can make it much harder for your battery to start the engine. If your battery is more than three years old or if you’ve noticed slow starts lately, have it tested by a professional who can check its charge, inspect the terminals for corrosion, and replace it if necessary. A strong, reliable battery will help you avoid being stranded on a freezing Spokane morning. Have Your Brakes Inspected When roads are slick, properly functioning brakes are especially important for maintaining control and avoiding accidents. If your brake pads are worn or your rotors are uneven, your stopping power will be reduced—especially in slippery conditions. Before winter arrives, schedule a professional brake inspection. A technician can check your pads, rotors, and brake fluid to make sure everything is in optimal condition. Addressing brake issues early can make all the difference in stopping safely when the roads get treacherous. Check Your Heater and Defroster A working heater isn’t just about comfort—it’s also about safety. Your defroster is critical for keeping your windshield clear of condensation, frost, and ice. Before temperatures drop, test both systems to ensure they’re blowing warm air and working properly. Reliable heating and defrosting make winter driving far more comfortable and help maintain clear visibility. Replace Worn Wiper Blades Between snow, ice, and slush, your wiper blades will get a serious workout during a Spokane winter. Old or cracked blades can leave streaks that impair your visibility. Replacing them before winter ensures you’ll have clear sightlines through heavy precipitation. Consider using winter-specific wiper blades designed to perform better in icy conditions. Use Winter-Grade Wiper Fluid Standard wiper fluid can freeze in low temperatures, leaving you unable to clear your windshield when you need it most. Switching to winter-grade wiper fluid prevents freezing and helps remove precipitation more reliably. Auto Maintenance in Airway Heights, WA When you need 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!
