Presto Auto Electric Blog
An overheating engine is a serious problem that can quickly lead to costly damage if not addressed right away. When your car’s temperature gauge climbs into the red, it’s a clear warning sign that something is wrong within the cooling system. Understanding the most common causes of overheating can help you identify the issue early and get it repaired before it leads to engine failure. At Presto Auto Electric, we provide expert cooling system repair in the greater Carson City area. Here are four common reasons why cars overheat. Faulty Thermostat The thermostat controls the flow of coolant between the engine and radiator. When working properly, it opens and closes at the correct temperature to keep the engine within a safe range. If the thermostat becomes stuck closed, coolant can’t circulate, causing the engine to overheat. This is a common issue that often goes unnoticed until the temperature gauge starts climbing unexpectedly. Low Coolant Levels Coolant plays a crucial role in regulating your engine’s temperature by absorbing and dissipating heat. If your coolant level is too low due to a leak or lack of maintenance, the engine can’t stay cool. Common leak points include hoses, the radiator, and the water pump. Without sufficient coolant, heat builds up quickly, leading to overheating and potential engine damage if ignored. Malfunctioning Water Pump The water pump is at the heart of the cooling system, pushing coolant through the engine and radiator. If it fails, coolant circulation is disrupted. Without proper flow, heat gets trapped inside the engine, causing the temperature to spike. A whining noise or coolant leak can be warning signs of a failing pump. Clogged or Leaking Radiator The radiator releases heat from the coolant before it cycles back through the engine. Over time, radiators can become clogged with debris that blocks the flow of coolant. Leaks can also reduce cooling efficiency. When the radiator can’t do its job effectively, the engine temperature rises, leading to overheating, especially during hot weather or heavy driving conditions. Cooling System Repair in Carson City, NV For expert auto repair in Carson City and the surrounding area, contact Presto Auto Electric at (775) 430-4546 . Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment for car care in greater Carson City!
Motor oil lubricates, cools, and protects your engine, allowing it to run smoothly and efficiently. Unfortunately, many drivers put off oil changes, thinking they can stretch the mileage further. However, delaying this routine service can cause serious issues. At Presto Auto Electric, we provide expert auto maintenance in the greater Carson City area. Here are four reasons why keeping up with oil changes is so important. Protect Your Engine from Damage Fresh motor oil provides a vital layer of lubrication that prevents metal parts in your engine from grinding against each other. Over time, oil breaks down and loses its ability to protect, making your engine more vulnerable to wear and tear. Dirty oil can also lead to sludge buildup. Regular oil changes help ensure your engine stays protected and avoids costly damage. Improve Fuel-Efficiency When your engine is clean and lubricated with fresh oil, it doesn’t have to work as hard. This means your vehicle runs more efficiently and consumes less fuel. Old, dirty oil increases friction and forces your engine to use more energy to function, which reduces miles per gallon. By keeping up with oil changes, you can save money at the pump over time. Reduce the Risk of Overheating Motor oil doesn’t just lubricate—it also plays an important role in cooling your engine. As oil circulates, it helps carry heat away from moving parts. But as oil breaks down, it loses this cooling ability and makes your engine more prone to overheating. Regular oil changes help ensure your car stays properly cooled, especially during hot weather or long drives. Maintain Resale Value A well-maintained car will always hold more value when it comes time to sell or trade it in. Prospective buyers look closely at maintenance records, and regular oil changes show that you’ve taken good care of the vehicle. Skipping this simple service not only puts your car at risk mechanically, but can also lower its resale price. Oil Change in Carson City, NV For auto maintenance in Carson City and the surrounding area, contact Presto Auto Electric at (775) 430-4546 . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!
Your vehicle's brakes are one of its most essential safety systems. Whether you're coming to a quick stop in traffic or gradually slowing down for a turn, reliable brakes are crucial for maintaining control and preventing accidents. Over time, brake components wear out and may develop problems that affect performance. Catching signs of brake trouble early can help prevent more serious issues and protect your safety. At Presto Auto Electric, we provide expert brake repair in the greater Carson City area. Here are four warning signs of a brake problem. Squealing or Grinding Noises One of the most obvious indications of brake trouble is unusual noise when applying the brakes. A high-pitched squealing sound is often caused by worn brake pads, which have wear indicators that produce this sound as a warning. If the squealing turns into a grinding noise, it's likely that the brake pads have worn down completely and are now damaging the rotors. This can significantly reduce braking power and lead to more expensive repairs if not addressed promptly. Brake Pedal Feels Soft When you press the brake pedal, it should feel firm and responsive. If the pedal feels soft, spongy, or sinks too easily to the floor, there may be air or moisture in the brake lines. This can compromise the system's hydraulic pressure, making it harder to stop effectively. A soft brake pedal could also point to a brake fluid leak, which is a major safety hazard and means you should get towed to the shop. Pulling to One Side When Braking If your vehicle veers to one side when you apply the brakes, it may be a sign of a stuck caliper. This can create an imbalance in braking force between the wheels, which affects your ability to stop in a straight line. Because this creates a serious safety issue, it should be addressed ASAP. Vibrations While Braking Feeling vibrations when braking commonly indicates warped brake rotors. Rotors can become uneven due to excessive heat or wear, and this makes braking less smooth and more unpredictable. Ignoring these vibrations can lead to decreased stopping power, so it's important to have the system inspected right away. Brake Repair in Carson City, NV For expert auto repair in Carson City and the surrounding area, contact Presto Auto Electric at (775) 430-4546 . Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!
