Business Details
26 Years
experience
Expert Auto Repair Services in Portland, OR
Ben's Japanese Auto Clinic has been serving the Portland and Vancouver area since 2000, combining over 40 years of automotive expertise with specialized knowledge of Asian import vehicles. Our team prioritizes trust and honesty, delivering high-quality repairs using OEM-certified parts to ensure long-term reliability. We recently expanded our facilities to provide faster service, maintaining a commitment to resolving issues permanently and fostering lasting customer relationships.Our technicians hold proven credentials, including Engine Performance certifications, and we specialize in complex repairs for interference engines, timing belts, and carburetor systems. Customer satisfaction remains our top priority, with a focus on transparency, precision diagnostics, and same-day repairs when possible.
Services
Engine Replacement
Timing Belt Replacement
Clutch Repair
Tune-Up Services
Check Engine Diagnostics
Details
- Year established: 2000
Highlights and features
- We specialize in Asian import vehicles with over 40 years of combined experience.
- Our technicians use OEM-certified parts for all repairs and maintenance.
- Engine Performance certified specialists handle complex diagnostics and repairs.
- Same-day clutch repairs and timing belt replacements available with morning drop-offs.
- We guarantee permanent solutions to avoid repeat visits for the same repair.
Services
Engine Replacement
We replace or rebuild engines for Asian import vehicles using low-mileage engines imported from Japan/Korea or zero-mileage rebuilt engines. All engines undergo testing in their origin country and again in the U.S. after import. Most engine swaps complete within 2-3 days, depending on parts availability.
Timing Belt Replacement
Specializing in interference engines, we replace timing belts with OEM parts to prevent valve-to-piston damage. Our technicians ensure precise installation to maintain engine integrity and avoid catastrophic failures caused by belt failure in Asian import vehicles.
Clutch Repair
We perform clutch replacements and hydraulic/mechanical repairs with quick turnaround times. Customers can often pick up vehicles the same day if dropped off in the morning, using high-quality parts for durable repairs.
Tune-Up Services
Offering complete and minor tune-ups using NGK/Denso spark plugs and OEM ignition components. Complete services include air/fuel filter replacement, throttle body cleaning, and ignition timing adjustments to optimize performance and fuel efficiency.
Check Engine Diagnostics
Our Engine Performance certified technicians use computerized scanners to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes and perform pinpoint diagnostics. We test sensors, actuators, and emission control systems to resolve check engine light issues and restore optimal engine function.
Questions
What types of vehicles do you specialize in?
We specialize in repair and maintenance for Asian import vehicles, including Toyota, Honda, Nissan, and Hyundai models.
Do you use OEM parts for repairs?
Yes, we exclusively use OEM-certified parts and fluids for all maintenance and replacement services.
How long does an engine replacement take?
Most engine swaps take 2-3 days, depending on parts availability and vehicle specifications.
Are same-day repairs available?
Yes, clutch repairs and minor tune-ups often complete the same day if vehicles are dropped off in the morning.
What are your operating hours?
We're open Monday-Friday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Saturday 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM, and closed on Sundays.
Reviews (6)
Jason Turner
May 18, 2022
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We've been going to Ben and now his son Sean for years. Very thorough, very skilled with all Japanese models. Really thorough and not too expensive. No bad experiences.
Katherine Savastano
May 03, 2022
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This review is long overdue. There are so many times when Ben has gone above and beyond on my little Subaru. When I leave his shop, it's not just that my car is repaired, it's that my faith in humanity is also restored. I first came to Ben around 2016. After doing many hours of research around town, getting quotes on years worth of (horrible) work I had done at TNA Auto Repair on MLK Blvd, I realized that I could have saved thousands of dollars in a five year period if I had gone to Ben's Japanese Auto. Ben's commitment to integrity is a rarity in Portland as far as car mechanics go, which most love to screw people who don't know a lick about cars (like me). This is not the case with Ben. He is a local hero.
Jordan Miller
Mar 19, 2022
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They were able to work me into their schedule and found the issue which a different mechanic shop couldn't find. Excellent communication, great customer service and I found the pricing fair. I'm new to the area and am happy to have found a good mechanic.
Elvis Pring
Mar 18, 2022
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They did great work on my car, and they found some issues with my car that other mechanics failed to find. Owner is friendly and knowledgeable. Great shop!
Tgood J.
Feb 24, 2022
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I've been here about 4 times and have my vehicle repaired with no issue. I came in for an oil change yesterday, which they asked me to leave my car. I said no problem I proceeded to remove some napkins that were on my seat because it's Covid and I didn't want any employees touching them. I head to the office to fill out my paperwork and throw the napkins in the garbage. I get a call to come pick my car up as it's done.
I have a Starbucks drink in my hand that is empty. I head to the office proceed to the trash and throw my Starbucks drink away. "The owner then says to me do you just bring all your garbage here to throw away In my garbage"? I replied it's trash so I throw it in the trash, would you like me to take it out? He then grunts with an upset look. At this time I'm perplexed due to the fact that I'm a paying customer not just some random person off the street and I'm throwing away a Starbucks cup. I'm sorry I threw my trash away in your garbage can Mr. Ben but you did a great job making your customer feel unwanted. God bless you!
I have a Starbucks drink in my hand that is empty. I head to the office proceed to the trash and throw my Starbucks drink away. "The owner then says to me do you just bring all your garbage here to throw away In my garbage"? I replied it's trash so I throw it in the trash, would you like me to take it out? He then grunts with an upset look. At this time I'm perplexed due to the fact that I'm a paying customer not just some random person off the street and I'm throwing away a Starbucks cup. I'm sorry I threw my trash away in your garbage can Mr. Ben but you did a great job making your customer feel unwanted. God bless you!
Lauren M.
Jan 25, 2022
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Ben's did a fantastic job. And they kept all the parts to show me why things needed repair. Very prompt, responsive, professional. Will be going to Ben's for all auto needs.