Auto Firm NW

10/20/2026

Common signs that your power steering may be failing include:
• Steering becomes hard to turn, especially at low speeds or while parking
• Whining, groaning, or squealing noises when turning the wheel
• Power steering fluid leaking under the front of the vehicle
• Low or dirty fluid in the reservoir
• Steering feels jerky or intermittent-easy one moment, difficult the next
• Steering-wheel vibration or poor return-to-center
• A power-steering warning light on the dashboard, especially in vehicles with electric power steering.

The problem could involve the pump, belt, fluid leak, steering rack, or-on newer cars-the electric power-steering motor or sensor. If steering suddenly becomes very difficult, pull over safely and avoid driving it, since control can be affected.

Even if you have a small question about your car or engine issues, we are here to help.

Highland Drive 503-661-4800

Powell 503-667-5600

AFNW 🤙

10/20/2026

10/16/2026

Changing a truck’s heater core is a complex job because the heater core is usually buried deep inside the dashboard, behind the glove box and HVAC housing. To reach it, the technician may need to:
• Disconnect the battery and wait for the airbag system to discharge.
• Remove the radio, instrument cluster, trim panels, glove box, and center console.
• Disconnect electrical connectors, vents, switches, and possibly the steering column.
• Drain the cooling system and disconnect the heater hoses under the hood.
• Recover the air-conditioning refrigerant if the
HVAC housing must be removed.
• Unbolt and remove much of the dashboard, sometimes as one complete assembly.
• Open or remove the HVAC box to access the heater core.
• Install the new core, then reassemble everything carefully.
• Refill and bleed the cooling system, recharge the air conditioning, and test for leaks and proper operation.

The difficult part is not usually replacing the heater core itself-it’s gaining access to it and putting the dashboard back together without creating rattles, electrical problems, airbag faults, or coolant and refrigerant leaks. Depending on the truck, the job can take several hours to most of a day, and some models require extensive dashboard removal. Because of the airbag, electrical, cooling, and air-conditioning systems involved, it is often best handled by an experienced technician.

Even if you have a small question about your car or engine issues, we are here to help.

Highland Drive 503-661-4800

Powell 503-667-5600

AFNW 🤙

10/15/2026

We takin’ pics like that da! 📸 Always gotta capture the moments, even when there’s an engine pull happening.

Even if you have a small question about your car or engine issues, we are here to help.

Highland Drive 503-661-4800

Powell 503-667-5600

AFNW 🤙

10/14/2026

A new engine can offer several benefits:
• Improved reliability: Fewer concerns about worn-out internal components or unexpected breakdowns.
• Better performance: Restores power, acceleration, and smoother operation.
• Increased fuel efficiency: A properly installed, modern engine may run more efficiently than a severely worn one.
• Reduced emissions: Newer engine components and technology can help the vehicle run cleaner.
• Longer vehicle life: It can extend the usable life of the vehicle, especially when the transmission and other major systems are still in good condition.
• Warranty coverage: A brand-new dealer-supplied engine may include manufacturer or dealer warranty protection.
• Peace of mind: Knowing the vehicle has a fresh engine can make driving and future maintenance less stressful.

Since the vehicle is also getting a new clutch, power can transfer more smoothly and shifting may feel more responsive-especially if the old clutch was slipping or worn.

Even if you have a small question about your car or engine issues, we are here to help.

Highland Drive 503-661-4800

Powell 503-667-5600

2050 E Powell Blvd
Gresham, OR 97080
United States

AFNW 🤙

10/14/2026

No job is too big or too small!
This mustang’s came in for a new engine and is now ready to get back on the road!

Even if you have a small question about your car or engine issues, we are here to help.

Highland Drive 503-661-4800

Powell 503-667-5600

2050 E Powell Blvd
Gresham, OR 97080
United States

AFNW 🤙

autofirmnw.powell

10/13/2026

When you’re working on vehicles, focus and skill are super important. Little mistakes can turn into big problems, like safety issues or expensive repairs down the road. Having the right skills means you know exactly what you’re doing, and staying focused ensures you don’t miss any critical steps or details. It’s all about making sure the vehicle runs safely and reliably.

How do you stay focused while working?

Even if you have a small question about your car or engine issues, we are here to help.

Highland Drive 503-661-4800

Powell 503-667-5600

AFNW 🤙

10/09/2026

Get your vehicle ready for fall and winter! 🍂❄️ We offer wheels and tires, professional alignments, and everything you need for a safer, smoother ride all season long. Schedule your service today! 🚗🔧

Even if you have a small question about your car or engine issues, we are here to help.

Highland Drive 503-661-4800

Powell 503-667-5600

AFNW 🤙

10/08/2026

A bad engine ticking should be checked promptly, do this:
1. Stop safely and turn off the engine if the ticking is loud, suddenly worsening, or accompanied by an oil-pressure warning, overheating, loss of power, or knocking.
2. Check the oil level on level ground after the engine cools for a few minutes. If it’s low, look for leaks around the oil pan and add the correct oil only if needed.
3. Don’t keep driving with an oil leak or low oil pressure. Ticking can result from insufficient lubrication, damaged valvetrain parts, a leak near the exhaust manifold, or other problems.
4. Arrange an inspection by a qualified mechanic. A brief light tick at startup may be less serious, but persistent or loud ticking needs diagnosis.

If the oil-pressure light is on, shut the engine off and have the car towed rather than driving it.

Even if you have a small question about your car or engine issues, we are here to help.

Highland Drive 503-661-4800

Powell 503-667-5600

AFNW 🤙

10/08/2026

A small bump in the road could be the cause of some serious damage! It’s always a good idea to have your vehicle inspected and well maintained!

Replacing a damaged oil pan is important because it holds the engine’s oil. If it’s cracked, dented, or leaking:

• The engine may lose oil and lubrication.

• Low oil pressure can cause overheating and severe internal damage.

• A dented pan may restrict the oil pickup tube, preventing proper oil circulation.

• Leaking oil can create a fire hazard or slippery driving surface.

• Continued driving could turn a relatively simple repair into an expensive engine replacement.

Have the oil level checked and avoid driving the car if it’s leaking heavily, showing low oil pressure, or making unusual engine noises.

Even if you have a small question about your car or engine issues, we are here to help.

Highland Drive 503-661-4800

Powell 503-667-5600

AFNW 🤙