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!