Inland Sales & Service
Auto Repair & Auto Maintenance in Airway Heights, WA and the Surrounding Areas

Your vehicle’s steering system is critical to its control and safety. When something goes wrong, handling and maneuverability suffer, increasing the risk of accidents. Knowing the warning signs can help you address problems before they escalate, potentially saving you from costly repairs and dangerous driving conditions. We discuss what to watch out for below. When you need steering repair in Airway Heights, WA, visit the team at Inland Sales & Service. Difficulty Turning the Wheel One of the clearest signs of a steering problem is increased resistance or “stiffness” when you turn the wheel. This could mean low power steering fluid, a failing power steering pump, or other issues within the steering mechanism. A properly working steering system should feel smooth and responsive, so if turning becomes a workout, it’s time for an inspection. Unusual Noises When Turning Squealing, whining, or groaning noises when you turn the wheel are often linked to steering issues. These sounds usually indicate problems with the power steering fluid level or pump. If left unaddressed, the issue can lead to more serious problems, like a damaged steering rack or even a complete power steering failure. Vibrating Steering Wheel If your steering wheel vibrates, especially when driving at high speeds or turning, it could signal problems in the steering system or suspension. Loose or worn-out steering components can create an uneven grip on the road, compromising your control. A vibrating steering wheel might also indicate issues with wheel alignment or unbalanced tires, so it’s wise to have a professional diagnose the cause. The Car Pulls to One Side When your vehicle consistently drifts or pulls to one side, it’s usually due to misalignment. Wear and tear on steering components can also cause this. Ignoring it can lead to uneven tire wear and reduced fuel efficiency. A proper alignment and steering check can restore balance, making your vehicle easier and safer to drive. Power Steering Fluid Leaks Leaking fluid is a clear sign of trouble. Power steering fluid is typically red or pink, and if you spot this under your car, it’s time to take it seriously. Leaks can originate from the steering pump, hoses, or connections, potentially leading to total loss of steering assistance. Auto Repair in Airway Heights, WA Inland Sales and Service is a full-service auto repair shop in Airway Heights, providing reliable and high-integrity auto repair and maintenance services backed by a national warranty. Our experienced ASE-certified auto technicians expertly perform vehicle repair on all makes and models, with 6-month interest-free financing on approved credit. You can have your vehicle affordably repaired for safe driving now, and spread the cost over several months! Call our local auto repair shop at (509) 202-4025 to schedule an appointment with our experienced car mechanics or to request an estimate.

The time has come to get your car ready for the approaching fall foliage. By implementing a few preventive measures, you can ensure a trouble-free season for your vehicle. When you need a fall tune-up in Airway Heights, WA, visit the team at Inland Sales & Service to get the job done. Check Your Tires Your car's tires are its first line of defense against slick, rainy roads. Check that the tread depth and inflation are suitable. Tire pressure can change when the temperature drops, so check your tires often to ensure optimal performance. Inspect Your Brakes Autumnal conditions require effective brakes since moist conditions and leaf-covered streets can impede traction. Check the fluid levels, rotors, and brake pad conditions. Your brakes' level of wear and tear should also be assessed. Sounds like creaking or grinding may be a sign to replace them. Test Your Heater and Defroster As the mornings become cloudier and windows fog up, make sure your car's heater and defroster are working properly. To maintain visibility in cold weather, a working defroster is essential, and a heater makes driving more comfortable. Check Wiper Blades and Fluid Worn-out blades can leave streaks, reduce visibility, and struggle to clear away moisture and debris. Replace any blades showing signs of wear, such as cracks or skipping. Top off your windshield wiper fluid with a solution designed to handle colder temperatures, preventing it from freezing on chilly mornings. Inspect Your Battery The battery may experience stress in the winter, particularly if it's an older model. Make sure it's retaining a charge by having it tested, and look for corrosion near the terminals. You can avoid a breakdown on a cold morning by replacing an outdated battery today. Auto Maintenance in Airway Heights, WA Inland Sales and Service provides top-quality auto maintenance services in greater Spokane. As a locally owned and operated auto shop located in Airway Heights, our highly skilled and fully certified auto technicians love to perform all types of vehicle maintenance required to keep our neighbors’ cars, trucks, and SUVs in top-running condition. When you need spring vehicle maintenance you can trust our automotive experts for fast, friendly, and reliable automotive services. To schedule an appointment for auto maintenance in Airway Heights, don’t hesitate to give us a call at (509) 202-4025 .

An essential component of your car's engine that keeps it operating correctly is the timing chain. Considering how frequently the weather changes in Airway Heights, it is especially important to maintain the timing chain. Ignoring a timing chain breakdown can result in expensive repairs, serious engine damage, or even engine failure. When you need to replace your vehicle’s timing chain in Airway Heights, WA, contact the team at Inland Sales & Service . What Does the Timing Chain Do? Because the timing chain synchronizes the movement of the crankshaft and camshaft, the engine's valves open and close exactly during the intake and exhaust strokes of each cylinder. Without this synchronization, the engine cannot function properly. Timing chains are constructed of metal and are intended to last far longer than timing belts, which are composed of rubber and need to be replaced more frequently. But they are not indestructible and will eventually need to be replaced. Why Replacement Is Needed When the timing chain breaks while the engine is running, the internal parts of the engine become out of synchronization and may collide. This can lead to serious damage to the engine, which often necessitates a full replacement or significant repairs. You can maintain the smooth operation of your engine and save yourself from these costly repairs by replacing the timing chain before it breaks. Timing chain replacement is also necessary to maintain engine performance at its peak. Over time, a worn-out timing chain can extend and decrease engine efficiency. Power loss, harsh idling, and engine misfires are frequent indicators of timing chain failure. See a qualified mechanic to have your vehicle inspected if you observe any of these symptoms. Auto Repair in Airway Heights, WA Inland Sales and Service is a full-service auto repair shop in Airway Heights, providing reliable and high-integrity auto repair and maintenance services backed by a national warranty. Our experienced ASE-certified auto technicians expertly perform vehicle repair on all makes and models, with 6-month interest-free financing on approved credit. You can have your vehicle affordably repaired for safe driving now, and spread the cost over several months! Call our local auto repair shop at (509) 202-4025 to schedule an appointment with our experienced car mechanics or to request an estimate.

Keeping your vehicle steady on the road depends on your suspension system, which absorbs shocks and keeps it smooth. However, like any other component, it can wear out over time. Knowing the signs of suspension issues can help you address problems early and avoid more costly repairs down the line. When your vehicle needs suspension repair in Airway Heights, WA, contact the team at Inland Sales & Service . Bumpy Rides One of the most obvious signs of a suspension problem is a noticeable increase in the roughness of your ride. If you feel every bump and dip in the road, your shock absorbers or struts may be worn out and need replacing. Uneven Tire Wear Take a look at your tires. If you notice uneven tread wear, it could be a sign that your suspension is unevenly distributing weight. This affects your car’s handling and leads to quicker tire wear, costing you more in replacements. Proper suspension ensures even contact with the road, preserving your tires and improving fuel efficiency. Drifting or Pulling During Turns If your vehicle drifts or pulls to one side when you turn, it’s a strong indicator that your suspension system is failing. This can be caused by a problem with the shocks, struts, or other components of the suspension system. Ignoring this sign can be dangerous as it compromises your vehicle’s stability and handling. Oily Shocks or Struts Physically inspecting your suspension can also reveal issues. If you see oil or fluid leaking from your shocks or struts, it’s a clear sign they need to be replaced. These components rely on hydraulic fluid to function, and leaks significantly reduce their ability to absorb shocks. Excessive Bouncing Your car should settle quickly after hitting a bump. If it continues to bounce, your suspension system is likely compromised. A simple test is to push down on the front of your car. If it bounces more than two or three times, it’s time to get your suspension checked. Steering Issues Difficulty steering, especially at low speeds, can indicate suspension problems. This could be due to worn-out power steering components or a misaligned suspension system. Proper steering is vital for maneuverability and safety, so don’t ignore this sign. Sitting Low or Tilting If one corner of your car sits lower than the others, you may have a broken spring. A tilt in your vehicle’s stance can also indicate suspension problems. This affects the balance and handling of your car, making it less predictable and safe to drive. Suspension Repair in Airway Heights, WA Your vehicle’s suspension plays an integral role in the safety, comfort, and efficiency of your commute. If you encounter issues such as one corner of your car leaning, excessive bouncing while driving, or drifting while driving, it may be time for new shocks, new struts or other suspension repairs in Airway Heights. Our nearby auto shop can perform proper suspension diagnostics to determine what’s causing your car’s issues, then get it repaired fast to ensure a safe and comfortable ride. Call Inland Sales & Service at (509) 202-4025 to schedule an appointment.

Your car's cooling system is dependent on its water pump to manage temperature and keep the engine running smoothly, Knowing how the water pump works and how to maintain it can help you avoid expensive and tedious repairs. When you need automotive maintenance services in Airway Heights, WA, visit the team at Inland Sales & Service . What Does the Water Pump Do? The water pump circulates coolant through the engine and radiator. By moving coolant from the radiator to the engine block, where it absorbs heat, it keeps the engine running at the proper temperature. The heated coolant is then refilled into the radiator, releasing its heat into the surrounding air. This continual cycle ensures that your engine runs efficiently and avoids overheating. How to Maintain Your Vehicle’s Water Pump Regularly inspect the pump for signs of deterioration. Look for leaks, rust, or corrosion near the pump and its connections. A leaky water pump may cause the engine to overheat. Always ensure that your car has the right amount of coolant to avoid overheating. Listen for Unusual Noises A faulty water pump will often generate a grinding or whining sound. If you hear noises coming from the front of your engine, have it checked out by a trained mechanic. A water pump that makes these sounds may have an aged bearing or internal issues. Check the Drive Belt The water pump is often powered by a timing or serpentine belt. Check these belts frequently for signs of wear, such as fraying or cracking. The engine may overheat, and the water pump may cease working unexpectedly owing to a broken belt. Auto Maintenance in Airway Heights, WA Make sure your cooling system is inspected whenever your car is serviced. Our professional experts at Inland Sales & Service can detect problems before they become serious and ensure that every component, including the water pump, is functioning properly. Inland Sales and Service provides top-quality auto maintenance services in greater Spokane. As a locally owned and operated auto shop located in Airway Heights, our highly skilled and fully certified auto technicians love to perform all types of vehicle maintenance required to keep our neighbors’ cars, trucks, and SUVs in top-running condition. When you need spring vehicle maintenance you can trust our automotive experts for fast, friendly, and reliable automotive services. To schedule an appointment for auto maintenance in Airway Heights, don’t hesitate to give us a call at (509) 202-4025 .

Air conditioning is necessary for a comfortable trip, particularly in the spring when temperatures rise. But proper maintenance is necessary to keep the fresh air flowing. Below are some tips for maintaining the health of your car's air conditioning system and avoiding expensive repairs. When you need automotive AC maintenance in Airway Heights, WA, visit the team at Inland Sales & Service . Run Your AC Regularly Even in the colder months, frequent use is necessary to keep your air conditioning system operating well. The process of running the air conditioner prevents the seals from drying out and possibly leaking by circulating oil and refrigerant throughout the system. Furthermore, regular use controls stress levels, resulting in better performance when it matters most. Even if you don't need cold air, you can extend the life of your air conditioning system by turning it on for a short time every few weeks. Replace the Cabin Filter Change the cabin filter in your vehicle to maintain clean, pollutant-free air. The ventilation and conditioning system's performance may decrease over time if cabin filters become clogged. The air conditioning system will operate properly and the air quality will be improved if the filter is replaced every 12,000 to 15,000 miles. Check for Leaks Air conditioner damage can result from low refrigerant levels. Examine the air conditioning system's hoses for visible leaks, such as grease accumulation at couplings and connectors. There may be a refrigerant leak if you notice odd hissing noises, warm air flowing from the vents, or a decline in cooling. Inspect Belts Over time, belt deterioration, cracking, or breaking can result in AC failure or inefficient operation. To avoid issues, ensure the belts are suitably tensioned and check for signs of wear such as fraying or cracking. Replace the belts immediately if you discover any problems with your AC system. Auto AC Repair in Airway Heights, WA At Inland Sales & Service, we fix car AC issues that prevent you from getting comfortable during your commute. Our mechanics have years of experience performing auto air conditioner repair including AC leak repair, Freon leak repair, AC recharge, Freon recharge, AC condenser repair, AC fan repair, and other vehicle air conditioner repairs. If you’re not getting the cool breeze you desire, call us at (509) 202-4025 for expert car AC repair in Airway Heights just outside Spokane.

Your vehicle’s clutch is essential for shifting gears smoothly and managing the amount of power that is transferred to the wheels. On the other hand, some behaviors may overwork your clutch, causing early wear and possible damage. Below, we look at several bad habits that can seriously damage your car's clutch and how to avoid them. When your car or truck needs clutch repair in Airway Heights, WA, visit the team at Inland Sales & Service . Poor Shifting Poor shifting is one of the most prevalent bad habits that can seriously damage your car's clutch. This includes behaviors like forcing a gear shift without completely engaging the clutch or riding the clutch. Premature failure of the clutch disc, pressure plate, and release bearing may result from the wear and tear of these actions. Avoid excessive revving or aggressive driving techniques, shift gears smoothly and deliberately, and fully engage the clutch before changing gears to prevent damage. Towing Beyond Your Capacity The extra weight you put on your car when you exceed its towing capacity strains the engine, transmission, and clutch, increasing wear and possible damage. Furthermore, while hauling large loads—particularly on steep inclines or in difficult terrain—the clutch may slip or burn out. Respect the towing capacity limits on your car and refrain from towing loads that are too heavy to prevent undue stress on the clutch. Using the Clutch on a Hill Certain drivers may "ride" the clutch when on an incline. Because of this, the clutch parts are subjected to excessive heat and friction, which accelerates their deterioration. Furthermore, releasing the clutch suddenly without coordinating with the accelerator properly might cause the car to stall or roll backward, which puts additional strain on the clutch. Use the correct hill-start procedures, such as applying the handbrake to keep the car stationary while smoothly engaging the clutch and accelerator, to prevent needless wear. Clutch Repair in Airway Heights, WA Inland Sales and Service is a full-service auto repair shop in Airway Heights, providing reliable and high-integrity auto repair backed by a national warranty. Our experienced ASE-certified auto technicians expertly perform clutch repairs on all makes and models, with 6-month interest-free financing on approved credit. You can have your vehicle affordably repaired for safe driving now, and spread the cost over several months! Call our local auto repair shop at (509) 202-4025 to schedule an appointment with our experienced car mechanics or to request an estimate.

Have you ever been in your car and noticed a strange odor? Some smells shouldn’t be ignored. Certain automotive odors are more than simply irritants; they indicate that your car is having problems. When you need auto repair in Airway Heights, WA, visit the team at Inland Sales & Service to get the job done. Gasoline A strong gasoline odor inside or outside your vehicle could indicate a fuel system issue, such as a leak or a defective part. Ignoring this stench can pose significant safety hazards because gasoline is extremely combustible. If you smell gasoline, deal with it immediately. Check for visible leaks in the fuel system, inspect the fuel cap for a secure seal, and get professional assistance to diagnose and correct any problems. Rotten Eggs A distinct sulfuric or rotten egg odor is typically linked to issues with the catalytic converter or fuel system. A malfunctioning catalytic converter can emit hydrogen sulfide in the exhaust, causing the odor. Ignoring it could result in worse engine performance and increased emissions. Exhaust The exhaust system is critical to your vehicle's performance, and strange odors may indicate a leaking exhaust manifold, a damaged catalytic converter, or even a faulty oxygen sensor. A sweet odor could suggest coolant leakage, whereas a burning stench could mean that oil or other engine fluids have entered the exhaust system. Neglecting these smells can lead to poor fuel economy and engine problems. Burning Rubber The smell of burnt rubber is often a sign that something in your vehicle is overheating or producing excessive friction. Slipping drive belts, overheated brakes, and even a faulty clutch are all common issues. Get your car inspected before any significant problems arise. Auto Repair in Airway Heights, WA Inland Sales and Service is a full-service auto repair shop in Airway Heights, providing reliable and high-integrity auto repair and maintenance services backed by a national warranty. Our experienced ASE-certified auto technicians expertly perform vehicle repair on all makes and models, with 6-month interest-free financing on approved credit. You can have your vehicle affordably repaired for safe driving now, and spread the cost over several months! Call our local auto repair shop at (509) 202-4025 to schedule an appointment with our experienced car mechanics or to request an estimate.

As the winter chill disappears, it's time to give your car a much-needed refresh. We'll walk you through the most important maintenance tasks to prepare your car for the shifting season. When you need a spring tune-up in Airway Heights, WA, visit the team at Inland Sales & Service to get the job done. Replace the Oil and Filter An oil and filter change is a vital step in preparing your vehicle for spring. Cold temperatures in the winter can cause oil to thicken, reducing its efficiency. Changing the oil and filter ensures that your engine runs smoothly, reduces friction, and achieves top performance. Fresh oil also improves fuel economy and increases engine life. Test the Battery Cold temperatures can stress a battery, reducing its performance. A simple battery test ensures that your vehicle starts reliably and prevents potential problems. If the battery shows indications of wear or is nearing the end of its life, replacing it immediately can save you from future car trouble. Replace Wiper Blades Don't be caught off guard by April showers; replacing your wiper blades is an important maintenance step to ensure adequate vision, especially since spring brings unexpected weather. Winter conditions can wear out wiper blades, resulting in streaks on the windshield. New wiper blades effectively remove rain, pollen, and debris, enhancing your safety. Check Tire Pressure Variable temperatures can cause tire pressure to fluctuate, lowering fuel efficiency and tire life. Properly inflated tires enhance traction, handling, and fuel efficiency. Taking a few minutes to check and adjust tire pressure per your vehicle's specs is a simple but effective way to prepare your car for the changing season. Auto Maintenance in Airway Heights, WA Inland Sales and Service provides top-quality auto maintenance services in greater Spokane. As a locally owned and operated auto shop located in Airway Heights, our highly skilled and fully certified auto technicians love to perform all types of vehicle maintenance required to keep our neighbors’ cars, trucks, and SUVs in top-running condition. When you need spring vehicle maintenance you can trust our automotive experts for fast, friendly, and reliable automotive services. To schedule an appointment for auto maintenance in Airway Heights, don’t hesitate to give us a call at (509) 202-4025.