Presto Auto Electric

the problem solvers... we fix what others can't

Auto Repair, Auto Maintenance and Auto Electric Diagnostics in Carson City, NV

OUR SERVICES

Foreign Auto Repair
Domestic Auto Repair
Auto Maintenance
Auto Electric Repair
Engine Diagnostics
AC Repair
Starters & Alternators
Classic Car Services
Trailer Repairs
A+ BBB Rating
ASE Certified
Pick Up & Drop Off

OUR SERVICES

Foreign Auto Repair
Domestic Auto Repair
Auto Maintenance
Auto Electric Repair
Engine Diagnostics
AC Repair
Intoxalock System Installation

Starters
Alternators
Classic Car Services
Trailer Repairs
A+ BBB Rating
ASE Certified
Pick Up & Drop Off

A man is working on the engine of a car.

Auto Repair

You can count on our ASE certified technicians to perform honest and efficient auto repair for all makes and models.

A close up of a person pouring oil into a car engine.

Auto Maintenance

We are your dealership alternative for everything from oil changes and fluid flushes to timing belt replacements and cooling system maintenance.

A mechanic is working on a car with a multimeter.

Auto Electric Repair

We utilize the latest technology to pinpoint and fix auto electric troubles in all foreign and domestic cars, trucks and SUVs.

A man is working on the engine of a car with a wrench.

Tune Ups

If your car isn't running quite right come see us for a fast and effective tune up to restore performance and fuel efficiency.

AC Repair

If you're not getting the cool breeze you crave quit sweating the commute and visit us for expert air conditioner repair.

A close up of a car headlight in the dark.

Aftermarket & Trailers

Our team performs aftermarket electrical upgrades for cars and services trailer lighting, brakes and wiring.

Independently owned and operated Presto Auto Electric is a professional auto repair shop in Carson City specializing in electrical diagnostics and services for all makes and models of cars, trucks, SUVs and trailers.

A lot of cars are parked in front of a garage

Our team of ASE certified technicians take great pride in providing full service care to keep our customers vehicles running safely and reliably. We understand that modern cars are rapidly advancing, which is why our technicians routinely undergo training to keep up with technology. This allows us to perform fast and effective auto repair and maintenance, including general services such as oil changes and tune ups to complex electrical diagnostics, accessory installation and air conditioner repairs. We're your stop for top notch auto repair in Carson City and the neighboring communities.

Since 1992 Presto Auto Electric has aimed to provide friendly, honest and affordable auto repair, maintenance and diagnostics. Our highly trained technicians have no issues backing our work with a great 120-day labor warranty and an additional parts warranty. We also honor all manufacturer warranties and provide core refunds for parts and batteries. We truly care about the customer experience, so come find out why we've been a top choice for auto repair in Carson City for more than 25 years. Give us a call at (775) 430-4546 to schedule an appointment! We fix what others can't!

Service Guarantee

Presto Auto Electric makes certain to back up our work. All repairs come with a full 120-day labor warranty, as well as a parts warranty. We honor all manufacturer warranties and provide core refunds for parts and batteries. Parts warranties may vary, depending on manufacturer.

A blue and white sign that says accredited business

Presto auto electric auto repair shop has been named the best business rate in carson city.

Presto Auto Electric Blog

A truck with a trailer attached to it is parked in a field.

Common Trailer Electrical Problems You Should Know About

by Presto Auto Electric • 15 May 2025

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.

Why Replacing Your Car’s Air Filter Matters—Especially in the Desert

by Presto Auto Electric • 15 April 2025

Regarding car maintenance, the air filter doesn’t always get the attention it deserves, but it should, especially if you live in a desert climate. In dusty, dry areas, your engine’s air filter works overtime to keep debris, sand, and other contaminants from entering the engine and causing damage. When it’s time to replace your air filter in Carson City, NV, contact Presto Auto Electric . What Does an Air Filter Do? Your car’s air filter traps dirt, dust, pollen, and even tiny bugs before they reach the engine. Clean air is essential for the combustion process, and a clogged or dirty filter restricts airflow, making the engine work harder. This can lead to poor fuel efficiency, sluggish acceleration, and even engine wear over time. Desert Conditions = Double Duty In desert regions, like Carson City, air filters get dirty faster. All that dust, sand, and grit in the air finds its way into your car’s intake system. This causes the air filter to become clogged more quickly than in more temperate climates, making frequent replacements a smart preventative measure. The Risks of Ignoring It If your air filter is neglected for too long, your engine might not get enough air, throwing off the fuel-to-air ratio and triggering that dreaded check engine light. Worse, tiny particles could start slipping through a worn-out filter and into the engine, potentially leading to costly repairs. When to Replace It In general, replacing your air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles is a good rule of thumb. But in desert conditions, you might want to inspect or replace it more often; every 8,000 to 10,000 miles could be safer. It’s a quick, inexpensive fix that protects one of the most expensive components in your vehicle. Air Filter Replacement in Carson City Is your car not running quite right? Are you experiencing decreased fuel economy? These are common signs it's time for a tune-up. During a tune-up, a vehicle may undergo a variety of simple auto maintenance tasks that help restore driveability and efficiency. This can include replacing spark plugs, cleaning the fuel injection system, or installing a new air filter and fuel filter. Call Presto Auto Electric at (775) 430-4546 to schedule dealership alternative auto maintenance in Carson City or the neighboring communities when it's time for expert auto care.

How a Desert Climate Affects Your Car's Engine

by Presto Auto Electric • 15 March 2025

Living in a desert climate like Carson City comes with its own unique set of challenges for your vehicle’s engine. Whether you're cruising through the sun-baked highways or dealing with the relentless heat of the desert, understanding how these conditions affect your engine is key to preventing issues and avoiding costly auto repair. Below, we discuss some of the primary impacts of a desert climate on your engine and what you can do to keep it running smoothly. For engine repair in Carson City, NV, contact Presto Auto Electric . High Temperatures and Engine Stress In a desert environment, the soaring temperatures can put extra stress on your car’s engine. When the ambient temperature is high, your engine has to work harder to maintain optimal operating conditions. The heat can cause the engine oil to thin out, reducing its lubricating properties. This, in turn, increases friction between engine parts and can lead to accelerated wear and tear. Keeping an eye on your oil levels and using high-quality, high-temperature engine oil can help mitigate these issues. Impact on Cooling Systems Your engine’s cooling system is its lifeline, especially in a desert climate. High temperatures can overwork the radiator and coolant system, leading to overheating. Over time, the constant stress can cause leaks or damage to hoses and other components. Regular maintenance, including checking coolant levels and ensuring there are no leaks, is crucial to keep the system functioning efficiently. Scheduling routine auto repair inspections can catch these problems early before they escalate into serious issues. Dust and Debris Desert regions are notorious for dust, which can be a hidden enemy for your engine. Fine particles can infiltrate air filters, reducing airflow and causing the engine to work harder. A clogged air filter decreases performance and can lead to increased fuel consumption and more frequent auto repair needs. Replacing your air filter more frequently is a small change that can make a big difference. Fuel Quality and Combustion The combination of high heat and dust can also affect the combustion process. Deposits can build up in the engine, reducing efficiency over time. Regular tune-ups and using high-quality fuel can help maintain optimal combustion, ensuring your engine runs efficiently even in harsh desert conditions. Engine Repair in Carson City There are many symptoms of trouble when it comes to the engine. Some of the most common include the check engine light coming on, an oil leak, or a knocking noise coming from under the hood. If you're not getting the type of performance or fuel economy that you're used to, be sure to visit Presto Auto Electric or give us a call at (775) 430-4546 . We'll run thorough diagnostics and complete accurate repairs to get you back on the road in a safe and reliable vehicle.

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