Get practical auto care tips, repair guidance, and maintenance advice from Clay’s Auto Service. Browse our latest posts and contact us if you need help with repairs in Hillsboro.

Car repair image showing diagnostic testing of a vehicle's electrical system.

Starter vs. Alternator: Why Your Car Won’t Start | Clay’s Auto Service Struggling to start your car? Learn the difference between a bad starter and a failing alternator with this guide from Clay’s Auto Service in Hillsboro. Picture this: You’re already five minutes late for a meeting in downtown Hillsboro. You hop

Vehicle maintenance workshop with mechanic working on a van.

7 Fleet Maintenance Mistakes You Need to Avoid in Hillsboro Stop losing money on downtime! Learn the 7 common fleet vehicle maintenance mistakes and how Clay’s Auto Service in Hillsboro keeps your business moving. If you run a business in Hillsboro, you know that your fleet is more than just a collection

Warning about common brake repair mistakes at Clay's Auto service center.

Common Brake Repair Mistakes to Avoid | Clay’s Auto Service Avoid costly and dangerous brake repair mistakes. Learn why DIY can be tricky and how our Hillsboro ASE Certified techs provide reliable brake repair. Have you ever been cruising down Cornell Road, enjoying a rare sunny afternoon in Hillsboro, only to hear

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Taking care of your car is like taking care of your own health; both require regular check-ups to ensure everything is running smoothly. One of the simplest yet most crucial maintenance tasks for your vehicle is the regular oil change. This seemingly small task plays a big role in keeping your engine

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When summer temperatures soar, stepping into a car with a cold, refreshing cabin is one of life’s simple pleasures. But behind that comfort lies a complex mechanical system—the air conditioning (AC) system—working tirelessly to keep you cool. Like any vital component of your vehicle, your AC system requires regular maintenance to function

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When your car’s air conditioning system isn’t performing as expected, it can make even the shortest drive uncomfortable, especially in the heat of summer. But when faced with a malfunction, should you opt for a repair or look into an AC system replacement? This decision can seem daunting, but understanding the signs

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When it comes to car safety, few components are as important as your brakes. They’re the one system you absolutely rely on every time you drive, whether you’re slowing for a red light, easing into a parking spot, or stopping suddenly to avoid an obstacle. Because brakes play such a critical role

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If you’ve ever found yourself staring at your truck or SUV thinking, “How can I get more clearance, a tougher look, or a smoother ride off-road?” you’re not alone. Many truck and SUV owners across Avondale, AZ (and beyond) eventually ask themselves the same question: Do I need a lift kit or

Professional tire inspection and wheel repair services for optimal vehicle performance.

When your car breaks down or starts acting up, your first thought is probably, “Where can I take this to get fixed right the first time?” That’s exactly the peace of mind you should get from a professional auto repair shop—and if you’re not getting that kind of confidence from your current

Technician inspecting a vehicle's brake disc for wear and damage.

Your vehicle’s brakes are arguably the most critical safety component you rely on every time you drive. Whether you’re commuting to work in Hillsboro, navigating traffic in Beaverton, or heading into the Portland Metro Area for errands, your brake system has to perform flawlessly. But like all parts, brakes wear out over

Brake system component on a vehicle's wheel assembly.

Your vehicle’s brakes are more than just another part under the hood, they’re a crucial safety feature that you rely on every single day. That’s why professional brake repair is one of the most important investments you can make in your car’s overall health and peace of mind. In this article, we’ll

Auto repair technician inspecting a vehicle on a lift at Clay’s Auto Service.

Who do you call when your car breaks down? If you don’t already have a trusted auto repair expert on your speed dial, it may be difficult to navigate a situation where you’re stranded on the road with a malfunctioning car.  At the same time, while looking for a professional auto repair

Engine repair technician inspecting a car engine at Clay's Auto.

Owning and using a car comes with a few challenges with the added responsibility of maintaining it. It might sound a bit daunting but routine check-ups can save you from big issues in the future. But, how do you know when to visit an auto repair shop? Knowing the signs that your

Technician performing emission system check under a vehicle.

In our daily lives, vehicles are ubiquitous, but so are the emissions they produce. The Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) oversees emission testing for vehicles. It is a crucial measure to uphold air quality standards and safeguard public health. In this blog, we will discuss the role of DEQ emission testing for