Presto Auto Electric Blog

Few things make drivers more uneasy than seeing the check engine light suddenly appear on the dashboard. This warning can indicate a minor issue or a serious problem that needs immediate attention, but it should never be ignored. Modern vehicles rely on complex systems and sensors to operate efficiently, and the check engine light is your car’s way of telling you something isn’t working as it should. At Presto Auto Electric, we provide expert check engine light diagnostics and repair in the greater Carson City area. Here are four issues frequently responsible for triggering the check engine light. Faulty Oxygen Sensor One of the most common reasons the check engine light turns on is a failing oxygen sensor. This component monitors the amount of unburned oxygen in your exhaust system and helps your engine manage the right air-to-fuel ratio. When an oxygen sensor malfunctions, it can cause poor fuel-economy, higher emissions, and rough engine performance. If left unaddressed, it may also lead to damage to the catalytic converter. Replacing a faulty sensor promptly helps ensure your engine continues to run efficiently. Failing Catalytic Converter The catalytic converter helps reduce harmful emissions by converting toxic gases into safer ones before they exit the exhaust system. When this component begins to fail, the check engine light typically comes on. A failing catalytic converter can cause poor engine performance, decreased fuel-efficiency, and unusual odors. Bad Spark Plugs or Ignition Coils Spark plugs and ignition coils play crucial roles in igniting the air-fuel mixture inside your engine. When these components wear out or fail, the engine may misfire, run rough, or hesitate during acceleration. These issues commonly trigger the check engine light. Replacing worn spark plugs or faulty coils helps restore smooth performance. Mass Airflow Sensor Issues The mass airflow sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine, allowing the car’s computer to adjust fuel delivery. If the sensor gets dirty or fails, it can cause poor acceleration, reduced fuel-efficiency, and stalling. A malfunctioning mass airflow sensor often triggers the check engine light and should be addressed quickly to maintain proper engine performance. Check Engine Light Diagnostics and 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, NV!

Your car’s shocks play a crucial role in maintaining a smooth, stable, and safe ride. They absorb bumps in the road, keep your tires in proper contact with the pavement, and help your vehicle handle corners and sudden stops. Like all parts, shocks wear out over time—and when they do, your ride quality and safety can suffer. At Presto Auto Electric, we provide expert suspension repair in the greater Carson City area. Here are five signs that it’s time to replace your shocks. Excessive Bouncing After Hitting Bumps One of the most common symptoms of worn shocks is excessive bouncing after driving over bumps or potholes. Your vehicle should settle almost immediately after hitting an uneven surface. If it continues to bounce several times before stabilizing, your shocks may no longer be effectively absorbing impact. This extra movement doesn’t just make your ride uncomfortable—it also affects handling and can increase wear on other suspension components. Nose Diving During Braking If you notice your car lurching forward or “nose diving” when you brake, it’s a sign that your shocks may be losing their ability to control weight transfer. This condition can reduce braking efficiency and increase stopping distances, especially in emergency situations. Replacing worn shocks helps your car remain stable under hard braking. Uneven Tire Wear Shocks play an important role in keeping your tires evenly pressed against the road. When they begin to fail, your tires may bounce excessively, leading to uneven tread wear. This can shorten tire life and affect traction. If you notice unusual wear patterns during a tire inspection, it’s worth having your suspension checked by a professional. Poor Handling Worn shocks can make your vehicle feel unstable or less responsive, particularly when turning or changing lanes. You might notice increased body roll, where the car leans excessively during cornering. These handling issues can compromise control and increase your risk of losing traction, especially in wet conditions. Fluid Leaks on the Shocks Shocks contain hydraulic fluid that helps absorb bumps and control motion. If you see oil leaking on them, it’s a sign that the seals are worn and the shocks can no longer function correctly. Once fluid escapes, the shocks lose proper damping ability. Suspension Repair in Carson City, NV For 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 schedule an appointment for car care in greater Carson City!

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!

Your car’s alternator plays a critical role in keeping your vehicle running smoothly. It charges the battery and powers the electrical systems while the engine is on. When the alternator begins to fail, it can lead to a wide range of electrical problems and may eventually leave you stranded. At Presto Auto Electric, we provide expert alternator replacement and auto electric repair in the greater Carson City area. Here are five signs that it may be time to replace your alternator. Dimming/Flickering Lights One of the most common and noticeable symptoms of a failing alternator is dim or flickering lights. Your headlights, dashboard lights, or interior lights may become unusually dim or inconsistent. This happens because the alternator is no longer generating enough power to keep all the electrical systems running properly. If you notice this issue, it’s time to have your alternator inspected. Frequent Battery Problems If you find yourself needing to jump-start your car often or if the battery seems to die without warning, the problem may not be the battery itself. A faulty alternator can fail to keep the battery charged, even if the battery is relatively new. If your battery is frequently going dead, it’s important to test both the battery and the alternator to determine the true cause of the issue. Strange Noises from the Engine Area A failing alternator can sometimes produce unusual sounds such as grinding or whining. These noises often come from worn-out bearings or belt issues. If you hear unusual noises from the front of your vehicle, the alternator could be to blame. Warning Lights on the Dashboard Many vehicles are equipped with a warning light on the dashboard that indicates charging system problems. This light may appear as a battery icon or say ALT or GEN. If this light comes on while you’re driving, it’s a warning sign that your alternator is not charging the battery properly. Ignoring this warning can lead to electrical failure and a stalled engine. Electrical Accessories Acting Up When the alternator isn’t supplying enough power, you may notice electrical systems behaving erratically. Power windows may move slowly, the radio might cut out, or the air conditioning may fluctuate. These issues could be intermittent at first but become more persistent as the alternator continues to fail. Alternator Replacement & Auto Electric Repair in Carson City, NV For 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 schedule an appointment!

Besides keeping your ride smooth, your car’s suspension plays a major role in steering, braking, and overall control. In a place like Carson City, where mountain roads and sudden weather changes are common, a healthy suspension system is essential for safe driving. Recognizing early signs of trouble can help you avoid bigger repair bills down the road. When your car needs suspension repair in Carson City, NV, contact Presto Auto Electric . Common Signs Your Suspension Needs Attention A Rough or Bumpy Ride If you feel every dip, crack, and pothole, your shocks or struts may be worn out. These components absorb road impact—when they stop doing their job, your vehicle will bounce excessively. Vehicle Pulls to One Side While this can also indicate alignment or tire issues, pulling to one side, especially after hitting a bump, can point to uneven suspension wear. It may also suggest a broken control arm or worn bushings. Nose Dives or Squats When braking, does the front end of your car dive downward? Does the rear squat when you accelerate? These are classic symptoms of failing shocks or struts and affect your ability to control the vehicle safely. Uneven Tire Wear If your tires are wearing out faster on one side or show unusual patterns, your suspension may not be distributing weight evenly. This puts your tires and your safety at risk. Oily or Damaged Shocks A visual inspection can go a long way. If your shocks or struts look greasy or have visible damage, they’re likely leaking and need to be replaced. Suspension Repair in Carson City Today's complex cars and trucks require special equipment and a deep knowledge of the auto's inner workings to ensure accurate diagnostics and fixes, which is exactly what the team at Presto Auto Electric offers. Our ASE-certified technicians understand the signs and symptoms of car trouble, whether that's a strange sound, vibration, or smell, decreased performance, or the illumination of a dashboard warning light. Whatever clued you into the fact that your car needed service, our team can fix it. Give us a call at  (775) 430-4546  to schedule suspension repair in Carson City or the surrounding area!

Whether you’re hauling cargo or just making a weekend getaway with your caravan, electrical issues in your trailer can put a serious damper on your plans. From dead batteries to flickering brake lights, trailer wiring systems can be a little finicky, especially if they're not maintained regularly. Here are a few common trailer electrical problems to look out for and how to tackle them. When you need trailer electrical repairs in Carson City, NV, contact Presto Auto Electric. Poor Electrical Connections Loose or corroded connections are some of the most common culprits behind trailer electrical issues. Over time, moisture, dirt, and road grime can work their way into connectors and terminals, interrupting the flow of electricity. This can cause anything from non-working tail lights to intermittent brake signal problems. Make it a habit to check plug connections for corrosion and clean them with electrical contact cleaner. Securing any loose wires and using dielectric grease can also help prevent future trouble. Caravan Fridge Charge Circuit Failures If your caravan fridge won’t stay cold while you’re driving, the issue may lie in the 12V charge circuit. This circuit is supposed to power the fridge from your vehicle’s alternator, but if there's a blown fuse, a damaged relay, or a poor connection, the system can fail to deliver power. It’s a good idea to test the voltage at the fridge connection when the engine is running; if you're not seeing power, the problem is likely in the charge circuit. Troubleshooting Electric Trailer Brakes Electric brakes are critical for safety, and when they’re not working properly, it’s a big red flag. Common problems include faulty wiring to the brake magnets, worn-out brake controllers, or a blown fuse. If you notice delayed braking or hear strange sounds when stopping, it's worth checking the brake wiring and testing the magnets for continuity. Professional inspection is often the safest route for brake system issues. Servicing the Battery Isolator Battery isolators are designed to prevent your trailer’s battery from draining your tow vehicle’s battery, but like all components, they can fail over time. If your trailer’s battery isn’t charging as it should or is completely dead, a faulty isolator may be to blame. Make sure the isolator is properly connected and receiving power when the engine is on. Replacing a worn isolator is usually a straightforward fix and can save you from future headaches. Trailer Wiring and Repair in Carson City At Presto Auto Electric, we can assist with trailer electrical problems, including poor connections and caravan fridge charge circuit issues. We can also repair electric trailer brakes or service battery isolators. We can even install LED lighting on your trailer! Call us at  (775) 430-4546  to schedule an appointment.