Graham Auto Repair

Preparing Your College Student's Car for the Journey Back to Campus The summer months are winding down and the excitement of a new school year is approaching! It's time to make sure your college student's car is ready for the road. A well-maintained vehicle is crucial for their safety and for your peace of mind. Whether you are driving them across the country, or waving good-bye as they take the journey on their own. We want to make sure breakdowns are crossed off the list this fall! Keep reading to find a checklist of services and safety checks, to help prepare your vehicle for the journey ahead. Bonus: If you complete an Oil Change Service at Graham Auto Repair, we will complete a free vehicle health inspection. Our team will inform you of any other necessary services. Giving you the opportunity to address any potential services before the first quarter begins! 1. Complete an Oil Change: Fresh oil is essential for the engine ... read more

Understanding the Different Types of Vehicle A/C Systems & Machines Keeping your vehicle cool during the hot summer months is essential for comfort and safety. But did you know that different vehicles use different types of A/C machines? At Graham Auto Repair we service both older and newer vehicles. We want to help you understand the differences between the two main types of vehicle A/C systems and machines: R-134a and R-1234yf. A/C machines are specialized equipment we use to service your vehicle’s air conditioning system. They recover, recycle, and recharge refrigerant, which is also known as Freon. This is done to ensure your A/C system works efficiently and effectively. We have two different machines at Graham Auto Repair: the Robinair 34788NI which handles the R-134a refrigerant specifically; and our Snap-on Machine, which can handle both systems. R-134a A/C Vehicle Systems: R-134a refrigerant has been the standar ... read more

Why You Should Never Skip a Pre-Purchase Vehicle Inspection Are you thinking about buying a used car? Before you make that investment, a pre-purchase vehicle inspection (PPI) can be incredibly helpful! By knowing the current health of the vehicle in advance, you can avoid potential headaches and costly repairs down the road. At Graham Auto Repair we can complete a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection and provide you with the knowledge you need to make a wise investment. Let’s get down to the details about why we believe a PPI is an essential step in your car-buying process! Check out this short video showcasing our vehicle inspections at Graham Auto Repair! 1. Uncover Hidden Issues: A PPI helps identify any underlying problems or concerns that may not be visible during a simple test drive. From engine concerns and fluid leaks, to brake or tire wear. Knowing the condition of the vehicle helps you avoid unexpected repairs, and consider if you ar ... read more

Why doesn't my car's A/C blow cold air? Are you experiencing a hot car, even with the A/C running? Multiple things may contribute to this concern. Here are some common reasons that may explain why your A/C is blowing warm air: Low Refrigerant Levels: This is the most common cause. Without enough refrigerant your A/C can't cool the air effectively. Malfunctioning Compressor: The compressor is essential for circulating refrigerant. If it's not working, your A/C won't cool properly. Clogged Condenser: The condenser needs to dissipate heat. If it's clogged, the system can't cool the refrigerant effectively. Electrical Issues: Faulty wiring, blown fuses, or problems with the A/C control module can prevent the system from functioning. When you have A/C concerns it's essential to start with a comprehensive diagnostic to pinpoint the ... read more

Comprehensive Vehicle Inspections at Graham Auto Repair: Ensuring Your Safety on the Road At Graham Auto Repair, we prioritize your safety by offering thorough vehicle inspections which are performed by our skilled technicians. We offer routine vehicle check-ups, pre-purchase inspections, brake inspections, and detailed diagnostic inspections. With all of these services, our team will partner with you to keep your vehicle performing at its best! Let’s discuss the reason behind inspections, and the different inspections that we offer at both of our locations. Regular vehicle inspections are important to maintain your car's safety and performance. They help you identify any potential concerns before your vehicle breaks down. Is it time to complete a regular maintenance service? Does your vehicle have a fluid leak or worn-out parts? Is it time to replace your brake pads or resurface your rotors? All of these things can be identified and scheduled during an insp ... read more

At Graham Auto Repair, we prioritize your safety on the road. One crucial aspect of vehicle safety is ensuring your brake pads are in good condition. Today, we want to show you the difference between worn-out and new brake pads and explain why it's important that you replace them, and that you don't wait too long. Imagine you're driving and you need to stop your car. A lot happens when you press the brake pedal, in order for your vehicle to slow down and stop safely. One of the most crucial parts in this process is the brake pads. Brake pads are small, flat pieces made of tough material like metal and ceramic. They are part of your vehicle's braking system and are found inside the brake calipers, which are located near the wheels. The part of the brake pad that touches the rotor is covered with a material called "friction material." This material is designed to create the friction that's needed to stop your car. Over time, the constant pressing ... read more

As spring blooms into summer in Washington State, many of us are planning summer road trips. Whether you’re dreaming of a coastal drive or a mountain getaway, ensuring your vehicle is road-trip ready is essential. At Graham Auto Repair, we want to help you prepare your car for the adventures ahead with our comprehensive vehicle services. Check out this short video where our team shares their tips to prepare for a road trip. Along with some essential items to take with you. 1. Oil Change Service:Why it's important: Oil changes help maintain your engine’s health and ensures it remains efficient. Replacing the old oil removes any debris that have built up over time. Fresh oil ensures that all engine components are well-lubricated and working together with ease. Ready to schedule your next oil service? Click Here To Book Online ... read more

What is Rotor Resurfacing? At Graham Auto Repair, we believe in keeping our customers informed about vehicle maintenance. Understanding what maintenance is needed and when is essential. We want to ensure that your vehicle doesn't breakdown, which can be more expensive and time consuming to repair. One common service we offer is rotor resurfacing. If you're wondering what rotor resurfacing is and if it's an option for your vehicle, this blog is for you. Rotor resurfacing is also known as rotor turning or machining. It is a process that smooths out the surface of your brake rotors. Why is this needed? Rotors are constantly under friction and heat that's created when you brake. Over time they can develop grooves, uneven wear, and other imperfections. Resurfacing will remove the imperfections and restore a smooth and even surface. Which is great, because it improves your braking performance! But it also extends ... read more

What Does a Red Ring on Spark Plugs Mean? Have you found a red ring on your spark plugs? Understanding the signs your engine is sharing is a crucial step to maintain your vehicle's health. At Graham Auto Repair we emphasize the value of regular maintenance for your vehicles. We want to ensure your cars are safe and reliable, to help you prevent future breakdowns. Before we dive into what can cause a red ring on your spark plugs, it's important to distinguish it from normal color changes. A brown or tan stain is generally considered normal. It is sometimes caused by oil and dirt particles, and is usually harmless. In contrast, a red ring can be a visible sign of a more serious condition. If you feel unsure which color you're dealing with, call and talk with our team. Our Service Advisors will be more than happy to help you! 1. Excessive Engine Heat: If your spark plug shows a red ring, it might be warning you ... read more

Troubleshooting Common Questions About Your Vehicle's Transmission System Transmission fluid is often overlooked but plays a critical role in keeping your vehicle running smoothly. In this blog we'll tackle some of the most frequently asked questions about transmission fluid and your transmission system to help you troubleshoot any concerns you have. We want to help ensure your car's transmission stays in top condition. Please let us know if we missed any by sending us your questions through our Contact Page. 1. How Does a Car Act When it Needs Transmission Fluid? One of the telltale signs that your car needs transmission fluid is irregular shifting or hesitation when changing gears. You might notice a delay in acceleration or a noticeable jerk when shifting. These symptoms often indicate low transmission fluid levels, which can lead to serious transmission ... read more