Clackamas Auto Repair

Why does my dashboard say brake? It’s alarming when a warning light illuminates on your dashboard, especially when it says "BRAKE." While the brake system is one of the most critical components of your vehicle, knowing why this light has appeared and what actions you need to take can prevent bigger issues or accidents. In this blog post, we'll dive into the possible reasons your dashboard brake light is on, what each scenario means, and how to address the problem safely. The Role of Your Vehicle's Brake System Before diving into the reasons for the warning light, it’s essential to understand the importance of your braking system. The brakes are responsible for slowing down and stopping your car. They comprise several parts, including brake pads, rotors, calipers, hydraulic fluid, and the brake pedal itself. When any component malfunctions or needs attention, your vehicle's brake warning system is designed to alert you. There are two common brake-re ... read more

Why Does My Car Battery Keep Dying? Few things are more frustrating than discovering your car won’t start because the battery is dead—again! Whether it's a new battery or one that's been serving you for a while, frequent battery issues can indicate underlying problems that need addressing. If you're dealing with a repeatedly dead car battery, this article will walk you through the possible causes and provide practical solutions to keep your vehicle running smoothly. 1. Age of the Battery Car batteries are not built to last forever. Typically, a car battery lasts between three to five years. Over time, the internal components degrade, reducing the battery’s ability to hold a charge. Symptoms of an Old Battery: ● The engine cranks more slowly when starting. ● The battery warning light may illuminate on your dashboard. ● The battery seems to lose charge faster, even when the car is off. Solution: If your battery is nearing the end of its lifespan, replacing ... read more

Why Does My Car Keep Stalling?  One of the most frustrating experiences for any driver is when their car suddenly stalls. Whether it happens at a stoplight, in the middle of traffic, or while cruising down the highway, a stalling engine is not only inconvenient but can also be dangerous. If you’ve been experiencing frequent stalls, it’s important to get to the root cause quickly to avoid potentially serious issues. This detailed guide will walk you through the common causes of car stalling, how to diagnose the problem, and what you can do to fix it. Understanding Stalling: What Does It Mean? Before we dive into the causes of stalling, let’s first define what stalling actually is. In simple terms, a car stalls when the engine stops running unexpectedly. This can happen when the vehicle is idling, when you’re accelerating, or even when driving at a steady speed. While some stalls are brief and the engine restarts easily, others can cause the car to shut do ... read more

Is Your Vehicle Smelling Like Gas?  If you've noticed a strong smell of gasoline around your vehicle, it's not something to ignore. A fuel odor can be an indicator of several potential issues, some of which could pose serious safety risks. Whether you're driving an older model or a brand-new car, a gas smell should prompt immediate attention. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what might be causing that gasoline smell and why it's essential to address it promptly. Common Causes of Gasoline Odor in Vehicles Fuel System Leaks Fuel Tank: One of the most common causes of a gas smell is a leak in the fuel tank. Over time, corrosion or physical damage can create small holes or cracks, allowing fuel to seep out. Even a minor leak can cause a strong gasoline odor. Fuel Lines: The fuel lines that run from your tank to the engine can also be a source of leaks. These lines can become damaged due to age, road debris, or improper installation. A small pinhole leak in a ... read more

Why Does My Car Sound Like a Lawn Mower When I Accelerate? If your car starts sounding like a lawn mower every time you accelerate, it's a sign that something isn’t quite right under the hood. While the noise might be easy to ignore at first, it’s important to understand that this sound could indicate a more serious issue—specifically, a problem with your car’s exhaust system. In this blog post, we'll delve into why your car might sound like a lawn mower when accelerating, what it means for your vehicle, and what you should do about it. Understanding Your Exhaust System The exhaust system is a crucial component of your vehicle, playing a vital role in the car's overall performance and safety. Situated underneath your vehicle, the exhaust system is designed to guide harmful gases produced by the engine away from the car and reduce the noise created during the combustion process. The system also helps to control emissions, making your vehicle more e ... read more