10 Common Car Problems Clackamas Drivers Shouldn’t Ignore (And How Tim’s Automotive Helps You Avoid Costly Repairs)
Intro:
Most people don’t walk into a repair shop because everything’s fine.
They come in because something feels… off. A sound. A light on the dash. A small change in how the car drives. And the truth is, those small signs matter more than most people think—because every major breakdown starts with a warning sign.
At Tim’s Automotive Repair and Sales in Clackamas, we believe in helping you catch issues early, understand what’s really going on, and prevent expensive repairs before they happen. That’s what real service looks like—and that’s what we’re here for.
Below are the 10 most common problems we see in our shop—and what you should do if you’re seeing the signs in your own vehicle.
1. The Check Engine Light Comes On
It’s one of the most common reasons people call us—and one of the most misunderstood. That little light could mean something simple, or something serious. But one thing’s for sure: the longer you wait, the worse (and more expensive) it can get.
What to do: Bring it to Tim’s for a quick diagnostic scan. We’ll explain the issue clearly, give you real answers, and never push repairs you don’t need.
2. The Car Won’t Start—or Struggles Every Time
It could be the battery, starter, alternator, or even a parasitic drain—but when your car isn’t starting right, your electrical system needs attention.
What to do: We’ll run a full charging system test to get to the root cause before you find yourself stranded at the worst possible time.
3. Squealing or Grinding Brakes
Your brakes talk to you—and if they’re squealing, grinding, or taking longer to stop, they’re telling you it’s time to act. Delay it too long, and you could damage your rotors, calipers, and more.
What to do: Schedule a brake inspection. We’ll show you what’s worn, what still has life, and how to fix it fast and affordably.
4. Overheating or Temperature Gauge Rising
Engines can’t afford to run hot. Whether it’s a thermostat, radiator, or a coolant leak, overheating causes damage quickly—especially in stop-and-go traffic or climbing hills.
What to do: If your car is running hot, shut it down and call us. We’ll pressure-test your cooling system and keep your engine protected.
5. Shaking or Vibrating While Driving
If your steering wheel shakes, your ride feels rough, or the car pulls to one side, that’s a sign your alignment, suspension, or tires are out of spec. It’ll only get worse with time—and wear out other parts in the process.
What to do: We’ll road test and inspect it all—alignment, tires, suspension—and get your ride smooth and safe again.
6. Transmission Slipping or Hesitating
When your car takes too long to shift—or shifts too hard—it could mean transmission trouble. Early signs are often minor. Ignoring them? That’s where the rebuilds start.
What to do: Bring it in. We’ll check fluid condition, scan the system, and help you act before it becomes a major expense.
7. Fluid Leaks (Oil, Coolant, Transmission, Brake)
Leaks aren’t harmless. Whether it’s a few drops or a steady drip, it’s a sign that a gasket, seal, or hose is failing. Left alone, leaks lead to overheating, system failure, and major repairs.
What to do: We’ll find the source fast and give you a clear plan to stop the damage before it spreads.
8. A/C Not Working Right (Or Smelling Musty)
If your A/C isn’t blowing cold, or smells off, your system might be low on refrigerant, leaking, or struggling with airflow. Catching it early is key—before it turns into a compressor or full system failure.
What to do: Let Tim’s check the pressures, performance, and components. We’ll get your cabin cool again, no guesswork needed.
9. Uneven Tire Wear or Poor Fuel Economy
If your tires are wearing unevenly—or you’re filling up more often than usual—it could be a sign of alignment or suspension issues. It’s subtle, but over time, it’s expensive.
What to do: We’ll do a full tire and alignment check. Protect your tread, your fuel budget, and your ride comfort.
10. Strange Noises or “Just Doesn’t Feel Right”
Most people know when something isn’t right. A new rattle. A ticking sound. A clunk when turning. These are early warnings—most of which can be fixed easily if caught in time.
What to do: Don’t wait for it to get louder. Describe it to us—we’ll inspect, test drive, and tell you exactly what it is and how to fix it.
Why Clackamas Drivers Trust Tim’s Automotive
At Tim’s, we believe you shouldn’t need to be a mechanic to get honest service. We explain things clearly, lay out your options, and help you make smart decisions about your car—without pressure, gimmicks, or hidden agendas.
Whether it’s a small concern or a big issue, we’ll take care of it with respect, speed, and a commitment to doing things right.
Call (503) 656-0600 or visittims-automotive.com to schedule your appointment. We’ll help you catch the problem before it catches you.
For more information please watch the video
https://youtu.be/eBMew_uoJNA