Clackamas Auto Repair

Metal Fatigue in the Auto Repair Industry: Why Tim’s Automotive Repair & Sales Is Not to Blame for Stripped Drain Plugs, Lug Nuts, and Worn Fasteners Introduction: The Hidden Challenge in Auto Repair At Tim’s Automotive Repair & Sales in Clackamas, OR, we’ve built our reputation on honesty, skilled workmanship, and customer trust. But one of the most common frustrations in auto repair comes when a bolt, oil drain plug, or lug nut fails during service. Many customers assume: “The shop must have broken it.” In reality, these failures are almost always caused by metal fatigue—the gradual, invisible weakening of metal after years of torque, vibration, heat cycling, and corrosion. By the time our technicians touch the part, it has already reached the end of its service life. This blog will explain what metal fatigue is, why it matters in automotive service, and why Tim’s Automotive Repair & Sales should not be blamed when it causes f ... read more

Oil Change Near Me? Why Clackamas Drivers Trust Tim’s Automotive for Engine Protection, Long-Term Value, and Honest Local Service If you’re searching “oil change near me” in Clackamas, Happy Valley, Damascus, Oregon City, or anywhere in southeast Portland, you’re probably not just looking for convenience — you're looking for someone who will get it right. Someone who treats your vehicle with respect. Someone who helps you protect your investment, not just perform a transaction. At Tim’s Automotive Repair and Sales, we believe an oil change is the most important thing you can do to extend the life of your engine — and we don’t take that lightly. Our shop is built on values: clarity, quality, and real relationship-driven care. That’s what sets us apart, and that’s why drivers all over Clackamas County trust us for their oil service and more.     Why Oil Changes Matter More Than Most People Realize Oil do ... read more

How Can I Tell If My Catalytic Converter Is Clogged? Introduction: Why the Catalytic Converter Is So Important The catalytic converter is one of the most overlooked parts of your car’s exhaust system, yet it plays a crucial role in performance, efficiency, and safety. Its primary job is to reduce harmful emissions, but when it becomes clogged or fails, your vehicle may experience everything from poor acceleration to dangerous overheating. For drivers in Clackamas, Happy Valley, Milwaukie, Oregon City, Gladstone, Damascus, and across the Portland metro area, knowing how to recognize the warning signs of a clogged catalytic converter can save you from breakdowns and expensive repairs. This guide will cover: The role of the catalytic converter.   Key symptoms of a clogged converter.   Testing methods to confirm the problem.   Common causes of converter failure.   Risks of ignoring the issue.   What to do if you suspect your catalytic converter ... read more

Why Is My Car Not Starting? Expert Guide from Tim’s Automotive Repair and Sales in Clackamas, OR There’s nothing more frustrating than a car that won’t start. You turn the key or press the button, expecting the familiar sound of the engine firing up—but instead, you’re met with silence, clicking, or a sluggish crank. Whether this happens in your driveway in Clackamas, in a shopping center lot in Happy Valley, or during your commute toward Portland, a no-start condition can disrupt your day and leave you stranded. At Tim’s Automotive Repair and Sales in Clackamas, OR, we see these issues every week. Sometimes the solution is simple, like replacing a weak battery. Other times, it’s more complex, such as a failing starter, clogged fuel filter, or faulty sensor. In this guide, we’ll explain the most common reasons your car won’t start, how Oregon’s climate and driving conditions make these problems more likely, and why professio ... read more

Why Does My Car Turn Off When I Stop? Common Causes, Solutions, and Expert Advice Have you ever been driving along, minding your own business, when suddenly your car turns off when stopping at a red light or stop sign? It's a frustrating and potentially dangerous situation that leaves many drivers scratching their heads. If you're wondering, "why does my car turn off when I stop," you're not alone. This common automotive issue, often referred to as engine stalls at idle or car shuts off at stop, can stem from a variety of mechanical and electrical problems. In this comprehensive guide, we'll dive deep into the reasons behind this problem, explore symptoms, diagnostic steps, and practical solutions to get you back on the road safely. Whether you're dealing with a sudden engine dies when stopped or intermittent vehicle stalling causes, understanding the root of the issue is key to preventing future occurrences. We'll cover everything from basic mainten ... read more