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14711 15th Ave NE Ave A. Seattle, WA 98155

Monday-Friday 9am-5pm  |  Saturday by Appointment

Everybodys Auto Service logo drawing of a car and a wrench
A google logo with five stars on it

14711 15th Ave NE Ave A. Seattle, WA 98155  |  Monday-Friday 9am-5pm  |  Saturday by Appointment  |  Se habla Español

Everybody’s Auto Service Blog

What are the common symptoms of an alternator issue?

Everybody’s Auto Service • 18 January 2025
A man is working on the engine of a car with a wrench.

Your car's alternator plays a crucial role in keeping the electrical system running and ensuring your battery stays charged. When the alternator begins to fail, it can lead to a range of problems that affect your vehicle's performance and reliability. Identifying the warning signs early can potentially save you from being stranded. At Everybody’s Auto Service, we provide expert alternator replacement and auto electric repair in the greater North Seattle area. Here are five common signs of alternator trouble.


Warning Light on the Dashboard

Most modern vehicles have a dashboard warning light specifically for alternator or battery issues. It often appears as a battery symbol or may simply say ALT or GEN. If this light comes on while you're driving, it’s a warning sign that the alternator isn’t functioning properly and needs immediate attention.


Unusual Noises

A failing alternator may produce strange noises, such as grinding or whining sounds. These noises can result from worn-out bearings in the alternator or a misaligned belt. If you hear these sounds coming from under the hood, it’s time to have the alternator checked by the mechanic.


Dimming/Flickering Lights

One of the most noticeable signs of alternator trouble is dimming or flickering headlights and dashboard lights. Since the alternator supplies power to your vehicle's electrical system, any malfunction can cause inconsistent power delivery. If your lights seem unusually dim, it could indicate that the alternator is struggling to maintain a consistent charge.


Electrical Accessory Problems

When the alternator isn’t supplying enough power, you might notice electrical malfunctions in your car. Power windows may operate more slowly, the radio might cut out, or other accessories like the air conditioning may not function properly. These irregularities are often caused by insufficient electrical supply from the alternator.


Dead or Weak Battery

If your car battery keeps dying despite being relatively new, the alternator could be to blame. While a failing battery can also cause issues, a malfunctioning alternator won’t properly charge the battery, leaving it drained and unable to start the car.


Alternator & Auto Electric Repair in Shoreline, WA

For auto repair in North Seattle and the surrounding area, contact Everybody’s Auto Service at  206-201-1373. At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

5 Reasons Why It's Important to Never Skip Oil Changes

by Everybody’s Auto Service • 18 February 2025
Regular oil changes are one of the simplest yet most crucial maintenance tasks for keeping your vehicle in peak condition. Motor oil lubricates engine components, reduces friction, and helps prevent overheating. Neglecting oil changes can lead to costly repairs. At Everybody’s Auto Service, we provide full-service oil changes in the greater Seattle area. Here are five important reasons why you should never skip an oil change. Prevents Engine Wear and Tear Oil acts as a protective barrier between the moving parts of your engine, reducing friction and minimizing wear and tear. Over time, oil breaks down and loses its ability to lubricate effectively. When old, degraded oil circulates through the engine, metal components are more likely to grind against each other, leading to premature wear. Regular oil changes help ensure that your engine parts remain properly lubricated, reducing the risk of costly repairs. Helps Maintain Engine Cleanliness As oil flows through the engine, it collects dirt, debris, and combustion byproducts that can accumulate and create sludge. If the oil is not changed regularly, these contaminants can start to clog vital passages and reduce engine efficiency. Fresh, clean oil helps flush out contaminants and keeps your engine running more smoothly. Improves Fuel-Efficiency A well-lubricated engine runs more efficiently, requiring less energy to operate. When oil becomes sludgy, the engine has to work harder to perform its functions, resulting in increased fuel consumption. By keeping up with regular oil changes, you help ensure that your engine runs at peak efficiency, leading to better gas mileage and fuel savings. Prevents Overheating Oil also plays a crucial role in regulating temperature. As it circulates, it helps dissipate heat generated by the engine’s moving parts. Old or low-quality oil loses its ability to absorb and distribute heat effectively, increasing the risk of overheating. If an engine overheats, it can cause severe damage. Routine oil changes help maintain proper engine temperature and prevent costly overheating issues. Extends the Life of Your Vehicle Skipping oil changes may not cause immediate problems, but over time, it can lead to serious engine damage that shortens the lifespan of your vehicle. A well-maintained engine lasts significantly longer and operates more reliably. Routine oil changes are a small investment that pays off in the long run by helping you avoid major mechanical issues. Full-Service Oil Changes in Shoreline, WA For auto maintenance in North Seattle and the surrounding area, contact Everybody’s Auto Service at  206-201-1373  . At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Read the Latest Customer Reviews for Everybody's Auto Service in North Seattle!

by Everybody’s Auto Service • 17 December 2024
At Everybody’s Auto Service, we’re proud members of the local small business community. It’s our mission to earn our customers’ satisfaction by providing fair rates, friendly service, and top-quality repairs and maintenance. No matter how big or small the job, our local mechanics will work diligently to complete it to the highest standards. And we’re grateful when our customers offer feedback about their experiences with us. Here’s a look at some of our latest customer reviews. “I'm very pleased with their work and prices. This place is great. Trustworthy, reliable, friendly, and quick repairs. I’ve taken my husband’s and my car in a total of 4 times now for oil changes, leaks, window button replacement, shocks, and steering issues. I would highly recommend this place to anyone.” — Ashley S. “Great work done on the vehicle and very knowledgeable with all the information!!! Definitely recommended spot to go to!!!” — Kal I. “Had some noises happening in my car. They took my car in same day, diagnosed it to the A/C compressor, and gave a cheaper quote than any other shop. Highly recommend.” — Austin V. “We called for an appt and took our 30 yo Toyota truck in to determine oil leak issues and obtain a quote to get it running properly. Zach evaluated the vehicle and provided a quote within 30 min. Other shops had indicated we needed to replace the engine but Zach disagreed. We were able to have the car repaired quickly. The quote was reasonable, communication was excellent and the car was completed on time. The truck is running great! I would highly recommend this auto shop.” — Michele M. “Friendly group of folks. Installed a lift kit and repaired air conditioning on time and with great results. Highly recommend.” — Phil B. Auto Repair in Shoreline, WA For auto repair in North Seattle and the surrounding area, contact Everybody’s Auto Service at  206-201-1373  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Don’t Ignore these 5 Indications of a Brake Issue

by Everybody’s Auto Service • 18 November 2024
Being aware of common signs of brake trouble can help you address issues early, saving you time and money and, most importantly, keeping you safe. At Everybody's Auto Service, we provide expert brake repair in the greater North Seattle area. Here are five common signs of a brake problem. Squealing Noises One of the most common warning signs of brake trouble is a high-pitched squealing sound when you press the brake pedal. This noise is often caused by worn-down brake pads and serves as an indicator that they need to be replaced. Many brake pads are designed with a wear indicator that produces this sound to warn you before they completely wear out, so don’t ignore it. In many cases, brake pads should be replaced at 30,000 miles as part of maintenance. Grinding Sounds If you hear a grinding noise, it may mean the brake pads have worn down completely, and metal is rubbing directly against the brake rotor, potentially causing significant damage. Grinding sounds indicate serious brake trouble, so if you notice this issue, it's time to get your brakes inspected immediately. Vibrating Vibrations when you press down on the brake pedal are often a sign of warped brake rotors. This can happen if the rotors become too hot from excessive braking, causing them to lose their smooth surface. Warped rotors affect braking performance and can increase stopping distances, so it’s best to have them resurfaced or replaced if you experience this symptom. Spongy or Soft Brake Pedal When you press the brake pedal, it should feel firm and responsive. If the pedal feels soft underfoot, it could indicate a problem such as air in the brake lines. In some cases, it could be due to a brake fluid leak, which can lead to complete brake failure if not resolved quickly. A spongy brake pedal warrants immediate attention. Car Pulls to One Side When Braking If your car pulls to one side when you apply the brakes, it may mean there’s an issue with a stuck brake caliper, reducing your control over your car and increasing the risk of an accident. An inspection will reveal if caliper repair is needed. Brake Repair in Shoreline, WA For auto repair in North Seattle and the surrounding area, contact Everybody’s Auto Service at  206-201-1373  . At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Always Keep Up With these 5 Important Auto Maintenance Tasks

by Everybody’s Auto Service • 15 October 2024
Regular vehicle maintenance is essential for keeping your car running smoothly and avoiding costly repairs. By staying on top of key maintenance tasks, you can extend the life of your vehicle, enhance safety, and improve performance. At Everybody’s Auto Service, our local mechanics provide expert auto maintenance in the greater Shoreline, WA area. Here are five important auto maintenance tasks to prioritize. Oil Changes Oil is the lifeblood of your engine. It lubricates moving parts, reduces friction, and helps keep the engine cool. As the miles add up, engine oil becomes dirty and loses its effectiveness, leading to poor engine performance and potential damage. Most manufacturers recommend getting an oil change every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, depending on the type of oil and your driving habits. Brake Inspections Brakes are one of the most critical safety features of your car, so keeping them in top condition is essential. Regular brake inspections help identify worn-out brake pads, fluid leaks, or other issues that can compromise your vehicle’s stopping power. Signs that you need to replace your brake pads ASAP include squealing and grinding. Battery Care Your car's battery supplies the electrical power to start the engine and run accessories. As they age, batteries can lose their charge, especially in extreme temperatures. Most car batteries last 3 to 5 years, but regular inspections can help ensure you’re not left stranded by a dead battery. Fluid Checks Your car relies on several fluids to keep things running smoothly, including transmission fluid, coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. These fluids help lubricate, cool, and protect various systems in your car. Fluid should be checked regularly and replaced as specified by your manufacturer. Air Filter Replacement Your car’s engine air filter helps prevent dirt and debris from entering the engine. A clogged air filter can reduce engine performance, decrease fuel-efficiency, and cause rough idling. Most filters need replacing every 12,000 to 15,000 miles. Auto Maintenance in Shoreline, WA For auto maintenance in North Seattle and the surrounding area, contact Everybody’s Auto Service at  206-201-1373  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!
A car is sitting on a lift in a garage with the hood up.

The Benefits of Choosing an Independent Auto Shop Over the Dealer

by Everybody’s Auto Service • 11 September 2024
When your vehicle needs maintenance or repairs, you might consider going to a dealership. However, independent auto shops often provide a more personalized and cost-effective experience, with the same great results. At Everybody’s Auto Service in Shoreline, we’re dedicated to providing local drivers with exceptional car care at great prices, but cost isn’t everything. Here are several reasons why choosing us, a local car repair shop, can be the better option than heading back to the dealer for service. Personalized Service Independent auto shops like us are known for their customer-focused approach. Unlike dealerships, where you may feel like just another number, local shops build strong relationships with their customers. We do our best to get to know you by name and understand your vehicle’s history, providing a more tailored and trustworthy experience. Cost Savings One of the most significant advantages of independent shops is cost savings. Dealerships tend to have higher overhead costs, which are passed on to customers. We have lower operating expenses, allowing us to offer competitive pricing without compromising on quality. Skilled Technicians It’s a myth that only dealerships have qualified mechanics. We employ expert technicians who are experienced in working on all makes and models. We also use the latest tools and techniques, just like those at the dealer, to provide top-notch service. Faster and Flexible Service We can often provide quicker and more flexible service than dealerships. With fewer hurdles, we can schedule repairs more promptly and complete them faster, saving you time and hassle. Support Local Business We all know it’s important to shop local, and that goes for services too. When you choose us, you’re supporting a local business that contributes to the community. We are locally-owned and deeply invested in our community, creating jobs and fostering economic growth. Quality Parts and Warranties Our independent auto shop uses high-quality parts that meet or exceed manufacturer standards. We also offer strong warranties on parts and labor, giving you peace of mind. Many shops provide options between OEM and aftermarket parts, offering more flexibility based on your budget and needs. Choosing an independent auto shop for your vehicle’s care means benefiting from personalized service, cost savings, skilled technicians, and a commitment to honesty. For many, it's the smarter choice for both their car and their community. We invite you to visit Everybody's Auto Service and experience the difference an independent auto shop in Shoreline can make. Give our nearby car shop a call at  206-201-1373  to learn more about our team or to schedule an appointment for professional auto repair in Shoreline. We look forward to meeting you!
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