Best in town 5 year/50k mile warranty
RoadsideÂ
assistance
0% interest financing options available
ASE certified technicians
Get a dealer alternative estimate on your repair
Free shuttle service while we work on your vehicle
400+ 5 Star Reviews
400+
Reviews
Free Second Opinion Inspection.
100% Price Match Guarantee.
Free Second Opinion Inspection. 100% Price Match Guarantee.
Starting & Charging Systems
Reliable Starting & Charging Systems for Every Drive
A dependable electrical system keeps your vehicle starting easily, charging properly, and performing reliably every time you turn the key.
Totally responsive and easy to work with. First time interaction was like dealing with an old friend. I’ve found my mechanic.
Totally responsive and easy to work with. First time interaction was like dealing with an old friend. I’ve found my mechanic.
Starting & Charging Systems Services
Why Choose Art of Maintenance for Starting & Charging Systems Service?
Your vehicle’s battery, starter, and alternator work together every time you drive. When one component begins to fail, the others can also be affected. The result may be slow starts, warning lights, or a vehicle that won’t start at all. Finding the exact cause is the key to a lasting repair.
Â
Art of Maintenance provides professional service backed by careful diagnostics and experienced technicians. We inspect the complete system instead of replacing parts based on assumptions. From battery testing and starter inspections to alternator performance checks, every repair is focused on restoring dependable operation. Our team explains the findings clearly so you can make informed decisions about your vehicle.
Schedule A Starting & Charging Systems Service Today!
Signs Your Car or Truck Needs Starting & Charging Systems Service
Early diagnosis can prevent unexpected breakdowns and reduce the risk of damage to other electrical components. Electrical problems often begin with small warning signs. Schedule an inspection if you notice:
Vehicle needs frequent jump-starts
A vehicle that requires frequent jump-starts typically has a problem with the battery or charging system. A weak, aged, or defective battery may no longer be able to hold a sufficient charge, causing it to discharge between uses. A faulty alternator or voltage regulator can prevent the battery from being recharged while the engine is running. Other possible causes include excessive parasitic current draw from electrical components that continue to consume power when the vehicle is off, corroded or loose battery terminals, damaged battery cables, or poor ground connections. In some cases, repeated short trips may not allow enough time for the alternator to fully recharge the battery, leading to repeated starting difficulties.
Engine cranks slowly when starting
The most common reason an engine cranks slowly while driving is a weak or discharged battery that cannot supply enough power to the starter motor. Corroded or loose battery terminals and damaged battery cables can also restrict the flow of electrical current, reducing cranking speed. A worn or failing starter motor may struggle to turn the engine over, while poor ground connections can create excessive electrical resistance. In colder weather, engine oil becomes thicker, increasing the effort required to crank the engine. Additionally, mechanical problems such as excessive engine friction or internal damage can make the engine harder to rotate, resulting in slow cranking during startup.
Battery's Warning Light Stays On
A battery warning light that remains illuminated while the engine is running usually indicates a problem with the vehicle’s charging system. A faulty alternator may not be producing enough electrical power to recharge the battery, causing the warning light to stay on. Other possible causes include a loose or broken drive belt that prevents the alternator from operating properly, corroded or loose battery terminals, damaged wiring, or poor electrical connections within the charging circuit. A defective voltage regulator or a failing battery can also trigger the warning light. If the light stays on, the battery will gradually lose its charge, which can eventually lead to starting problems or engine shutdown.
Headlights dim while driving
Headlights that dim while driving are often a sign of a problem with the vehicle’s charging or electrical system. A failing alternator may not produce enough electrical power to maintain proper battery voltage, causing the headlights to become dim. A worn or slipping drive belt can reduce alternator performance, while a weak battery may be unable to stabilize the electrical system during periods of high demand. Corroded or loose battery terminals, poor ground connections, and damaged wiring can also create excessive electrical resistance that reduces voltage to the headlights. In some cases, a faulty voltage regulator or excessive electrical load from aftermarket accessories can contribute to dimming headlights while the vehicle is in operation.
Battery repeatedly loses its charge
A battery that repeatedly loses its charge is often the result of a problem with the battery, charging system, or an excessive electrical drain. An aging or defective battery may no longer be able to store and retain an adequate charge. A faulty alternator or voltage regulator can prevent the battery from being properly recharged while the engine is running. Parasitic current draw from electrical components that remain active after the vehicle is turned off can also drain the battery over time. Additionally, corroded or loose battery terminals, damaged battery cables, poor ground connections, or frequent short trips that do not allow sufficient charging time can contribute to repeated battery discharge.
Dashboard electronics behave unexpectedly
Dashboard electronics that behave unexpectedly can be caused by problems within the vehicle’s electrical system. A weak or failing battery may provide unstable voltage, resulting in erratic operation of gauges, warning lights, displays, and other electronic components. A malfunctioning alternator or voltage regulator can also cause voltage fluctuations that affect dashboard electronics. Loose or corroded battery terminals, poor ground connections, damaged wiring, or faulty connectors may interrupt electrical signals and lead to intermittent or incorrect operation. In some cases, a failing control module, blown fuse, or software-related issue can also cause dashboard electronics to function unpredictably.
Clicking sound when turning the key
A clicking sound when turning the key is commonly caused by insufficient electrical power reaching the starter motor. The most frequent cause is a weak or discharged battery that does not have enough voltage to engage the starter. Corroded or loose battery terminals, damaged battery cables, or poor ground connections can also limit current flow and produce a clicking noise. A faulty starter solenoid may click but fail to send power to the starter motor, while a worn or defective starter motor may be unable to crank the engine. In some cases, excessive engine resistance or a seized engine can also prevent the starter from turning the engine, resulting in a clicking sound instead of normal cranking.
Burning smell near electrical components
A burning smell near electrical components is often a sign of overheating or an electrical fault that requires immediate attention. Damaged or frayed wiring can create excessive resistance or short circuits, causing wire insulation to overheat and produce a burning odor. Loose or corroded electrical connections may also generate excessive heat due to poor conductivity. An overloaded electrical circuit, failing alternator, malfunctioning starter, or defective electrical component can overheat during operation and emit a burning smell. In some cases, a slipping drive belt contacting hot components or melting plastic insulation near high-current electrical connections may also be the source. Because electrical overheating can increase the risk of component failure or fire, the cause should be inspected and repaired as soon as possible.
ASE certified technicians
Get a dealer alternative estimate on your repair
Free shuttle service while we work on your vehicle
Trusted Service in Portland, Oregon
Drivers throughout Portland, Oregon rely on Art of Maintenance for dependable automotive care and honest recommendations. Our experienced technicians provide thorough inspections and quality repairs that help keep your vehicle reliable in every season.Â
Whether you’re dealing with a weak battery, charging issue, or starting problem, we’re committed to helping you get back on the road with confidence.
Contact us today to schedule your starting & charging systems inspection and keep your vehicle ready for every drive.
Experiences.
Real
Results.
They were super helpful in fixing a flat on my car. Went above and beyond and didn’t charge at the end. Super grateful for their professional service.
I was so pleased with my experience at Art of Maintenance. I needed my radiator looked at due to a crack, but my A/C was also not working. James called me soon after I left the car with a clear assessment and plan. The car was ready to go by the end of the day! He showed me the damaged parts he pulled out of the vehicle and I was on my way with a fixed car! My A/C even works now! (James drove it around more than once to be sure). I was impressed with the professionalism, knowledge and respect this shop has. And the front office is so pleasant to be in!
Very professional and quick! Would definitely recommend
Clean fast shop with a nifty SMS-based order and invoice system that lets you check which services you do or don’t want and authorize them without a phone call. Was able to book a morning appointment in 3 biz days and get my oil change/AC recharge done in 2 hours, car purred like a happy kitten with a tuna treat afterwards.
My car was repaired in two days. They were very communicative and courteous. I’m very pleased.
Art of maintenance rules- easy drop off and good service.
They got me in the same day and fixedy alternator to thank you
Excellent customer service!
This shop is pretty dang amazing. They definitely went above and beyond with following through with my repair needs. Engine mounts are so finicky, especially aftermarket ones. Long story short my Element is back and ready for camping in the wilderness. The E drives smooth as the day I bought it. Thank you guys for your determination to resolve anything that comes your way!
We took our 2013 Chevy Sonic 1.4L, Turbo, to AOM for an inspection of output shaft seal & oil change. We chose them because we volunteer nearby, and they could work on our car while we volunteer. They provided us with an inspection report that included pictures. After reviewing the report and going over the potential charges, we authorized them to complete the recommended services, which included oil change, new spark plugs, brake fluid flush, fuel injection service, output shaft seal replacement, drain and refill manual transmission fluid and replacing all shocks and strut assemblies and rear springs. This cost $2,818.00. We were in a bit of shock at the price, but that being said, this car has never given us a bit of trouble since buying it new, so we decided this money was well spent. We have had all the manufacturer-recommended maintenance done at the dealer all along. A dealer may have charged as much or more. The services performed by AOM were needed as evidenced by the pictures they took during the inspection and during the repairs themselves. Our car is running like new, and the repairs are guaranteed for 5 years, 50,000 miles NATIONWIDE. So, yes, it was expensive and worth it. We feel we got our money’s worth. Thank you, Ryan and Kevin.
Had to get the breaks on my car looked at. It was very easy to bring my car there, just had to drop it off whenever was convenient for me. All of the staff was very gracious and nice. As a woman, I have had experiences in the past where men at mechanic shops have been patronizing and mansplain me, but this did NOT happen here. Everyone there treated me with respect and it was very refreshing. Service was fast and I was able to pick my car up the next day. The office is very nice inside and they have a very welcoming customer lounge. All in all it was a very good experience and I’m very very happy with the work that was done on my car. I highly recommend to everyone!!! :))
fast accurate service, they kept me informed every step of the way
*Rates from 0%-36% APR. Payment options through Affirm are subject to an eligibility check, may not be available in all states, and are provided by these lending partners: affirm.com/lenders. Options depend on your purchase amount, and a down payment may be required. CA residents: Loans by Affirm Loan Services, LLC are made or arranged pursuant to a California Finance Lenders Law license.
