Clackamas Auto Repair

Is It Safe to Drive With a Steering Wheel Shake? A steering wheel that shakes while driving is one of those symptoms drivers notice immediately—and often try to tolerate longer than they should. Sometimes it’s mild and easy to dismiss. Other times, it’s the first sign that steering or braking control isn’t as stable as it needs to be. The difficulty is that not all steering wheel shakes mean the same thing. Some are relatively low risk and stable. Others are early warnings of issues that can affect safety, reliability, and long-term repair outcomes. This guide explains how to tell the difference, what’s usually happening mechanically, and how to decide what to do next without guessing or rushing into unnecessary repairs.     The clear, honest answer Driving with a steering wheel shake is sometimes acceptable short-term and sometimes not safe at all. The difference depends on when the vibration happens, how it feels, and whether it’s c ... read more

Car Mechanic vs Automotive Technician: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters Today When a vehicle starts making a strange noise or a warning light appears on the dashboard, most people still say they need a “car mechanic.” The term is familiar, widely used, and deeply rooted in automotive culture. But modern vehicles are no longer simple mechanical machines—and the professionals who service them have had to evolve just as much as the technology itself. Today’s vehicles are complex systems built from mechanical components, electronic controls, sensors, software logic, and interconnected safety technology. Because of this evolution, the difference between a traditional car mechanic and a modern automotive technician is far more than terminology. It directly affects how accurately a vehicle is diagnosed, how reliably repairs are completed, and how well that vehicle performs over time. For drivers in Clackamas and across the southeast Portland metro area ... read more

Your Search for a Suspension Shop Near Me Ends Here: Tim's Automotive in Clackamas, Oregon The beautiful scenic drives of Oregon can be a driver’s paradise, but the daily commute through Clackamas County and the unpredictable nature of our roads can take a significant toll on your vehicle. When your smooth, predictable ride is replaced by a jarring, bouncy one, or you start to hear new clunking noises from underneath your car, it’s a clear signal that your suspension system is in distress. A failing suspension isn't just a matter of comfort; it’s a serious safety issue that can compromise your vehicle’s handling, braking, and overall stability. When you find yourself searching for a “suspension shop near me” in the Clackamas area, you need a local expert you can trust—a team that provides honest diagnostics, expert service, and a complete solution. For over 40 years, Tim's Automotive Repair and Sales has been that trusted partner ... read more

What Is the Cause of That Clunking Sound in My Truck? (A Comprehensive Guide for Truck Owners in Clackamas, OR and Surrounding Areas)     Introduction: That Clunk Isn’t Normal — and It’s Not Going Away You’re driving through Clackamas—maybe heading down 135th Ave, pulling onto Highway 212, or merging toward I-205—and suddenly you hear it: a deep clunk from somewhere beneath your truck. It might happen when you shift gears, turn the wheel, or roll over a pothole. Whatever the situation, one thing is certain: your truck is trying to tell you something. That sound isn’t just background noise. A clunking noise signals that something in your suspension, steering, or drivetrain has loosened, worn down, or failed. Ignoring it doesn’t make it go away—it just allows more wear to spread, eventually affecting performance, handling, and safety. In this complete guide, we’ll break down what causes clunking noises in trucks ... read more

Steering Repair Near Me: Protecting Clackamas Drivers with Expert Care Introduction: Steering Is the Core of Vehicle Safety When drivers in Clackamas think about car maintenance, oil changes, tire rotations, and brake pads usually come to mind. But your steering system? It’s often forgotten—until something goes wrong. The truth is, your steering is the backbone of safe driving. If your wheel feels stiff, your car drifts, or you hear clunks when turning, those aren’t minor issues—they’re urgent warnings. Left unchecked, small steering problems can become costly repairs or even dangerous failures on the highways around Portland or the winding backroads near Oregon City. For drivers searching “steering repair near me” in Clackamas, Happy Valley, Oregon City, Gladstone, Milwaukie, or the Portland Metro area, this guide will show you: How steering systems work   Common symptoms of steering failure   The risks of ignoring problems ... read more