Squeal when braking
Most likely: brake pads wearing thin
Most pads have a small metal tab that squeals once they're getting low. Replacing pads now is quicker and cheaper than waiting until they damage the rotors.

Brakes, transmissions, alignments, A/C and everything in between, for any make or model. Lynnwood drivers have trusted our mechanics with their cars for more than 75 years, and it costs less than the dealership.
Tap everything that applies. We'll carry it straight into your booking.
Rather talk it through?(425) 778-1177


Since 1948, KC Martin Automotive has kept Lynnwood's cars and trucks running better and longer for thousands of customers and their extended families. New customers have a habit of becoming lifelong ones.
We take the long view on your car. That means careful diagnosis, only the repairs you actually need, and a report on the whole vehicle, so you see trouble coming before it gets expensive.


TodaySame spot for decades. A new logo, and the same promise: Generations of Service.
From a quick oil change to a transmission repair, our Lynnwood mechanics handle it under one roof, for less than the dealership charges.
See every servicePads, rotors, calipers and brake fluid, with an honest read on how much life is left.
BrakesConventional or synthetic, plus a once-over while your car is up on the lift.
Oil changesFixes the pull and keeps your car tracking straight after potholes and curbs.
Alignment
Spotted in the bayDaily drivers, work trucks, diesels and the occasional classic. If it rolls in, we can work on it.
All servicesAutomatics and manuals: slipping, rough shifts, leaks and fluid service.
TransmissionsReplaced on schedule, before a snapped belt turns into an engine repair.
Timing beltsLeaks, rattles and rusted pipes fixed, so it's quiet and safe again.
ExhaustBatteries, alternators, starters and the warning lights in between.
ElectricalCold air when August finally shows up, and a working heater all winter.
A/C & heatShocks, struts and worn parts that turn every bump into a clunk.
SuspensionSlipping, sticking or chattering clutches on manual cars and trucks.
ClutchesPick what you're hearing, feeling or seeing. We'll tell you what it usually means and how soon to bring it in.
A quick guide, not a diagnosis. Our technicians confirm what's going on and talk it through with you before any work starts.
Most likely: brake pads wearing thin
Most pads have a small metal tab that squeals once they're getting low. Replacing pads now is quicker and cheaper than waiting until they damage the rotors.
Most likely: pads worn down to metal
Grinding usually means metal is hitting the rotor. Stopping distances get longer and the repair gets bigger with every mile, so drive gently and get it in this week.
Most likely: worn suspension parts
A clunk over bumps or potholes often points to sway bar links, ball joints, bushings or struts. Worn parts make the car harder to control and wear out other parts faster.
Most likely: an exhaust leak or failing muffler
A rumble that gets louder when you accelerate usually means a hole or loose joint in the exhaust. Leaks can let exhaust fumes into the cabin, so don't put this one off.
Most likely: wheel alignment
If you have to hold the wheel off-center to drive straight, the alignment is probably out, often after a pothole or curb. It also wears tires unevenly and makes the car wander.
Most likely: warped or uneven rotors
A pulsing pedal or a steering wheel that shakes as you slow down usually means the rotors are no longer flat. We'll measure them and tell you whether they can be resurfaced or need replacing.
Most likely: low or worn fluid, or internal wear
Revs that climb without the car speeding up, harsh or delayed shifts, or a shudder all point to the transmission. Catching it early can be the difference between a fluid service and a rebuild.
Most likely: a worn clutch or clutch hydraulics
If the engine revs but the car doesn't pick up speed, or the pedal feels spongy or engages high, the clutch disc or its hydraulic system is wearing out.
Most likely: a serious engine misfire
A flashing light is more urgent than a steady one. A hard misfire can overheat and ruin the catalytic converter. Pull over when it's safe, keep the drive short and call us.
Most likely: the charging system, often the alternator
The battery light usually means the battery isn't being recharged while you drive. The car can run on the battery alone for a while, then it stalls, so get it checked this week.
Most likely: a transmission fluid leak
Red or pink fluid is usually transmission fluid, and sometimes power steering fluid. Running low on transmission fluid is one of the most common causes of transmission damage.
Most likely: low coolant, a thermostat or the heater core
No heat is often a cooling-system problem in disguise. Low coolant can also lead to overheating, so have it looked at before the cold settles in.
Slide the odometer to your mileage to see what most cars need around then. Your owner's manual sets the exact schedule, and we'll check it for your make and model.
We report on the whole car at every visit, so you see what's coming.
We report on the whole car at every visit, so you see what's coming.
We report on the whole car at every visit, so you see what's coming.
A snapped timing belt can wreck an engine. We'll tell you if yours has one and when it's due.
Plenty of our customers' cars are well past 200,000. That's the long view.
Mileage ranges are general guidelines. Driving habits, climate and your car's maker all change the schedule.
More than 75 years in business means a lot of happy customers. Here are a few of them.
Read more reviews"KC Martin is such a wonderful shop. Reputable, quick, and honest. We've been bringing our cars to them for 4yrs now and they are always straight shooters with what needs to be done."Tiffany J.
"I am VERY happy with the work KC Martin did on my suspension for my Honda Pilot! Their price was lower than other estimates. … I will continue to use KC Martin for all my vehicle repairs."Kelly Z.
"We have been using KC Martin for years and have never been disappointed. Their customer service is an example to the service industry and those who deal with them."Rob Y.
"We have had our cars serviced by KC Martin for many years. They always do a professional job for a fair price. They are honest and friendly and deliver as promised."Thomas B.
Send a request in about a minute. We'll call to confirm a time that works for you.
Our shop is just off I-5 on 196th St SW, a short drive from all of these.