Presto Auto Electric Blog

Brake fluid is one of the most necessary, yet often overlooked, components of a vehicle's braking system. It transfers the force from your foot on the brake pedal to the brake pads, helping bring your car to a safe stop. Over time, however, brake fluid degrades, which can compromise braking performance and put you at risk on the road. Knowing when to get a brake fluid flush can make all the difference in maintaining optimal safety and performance. When it’s time to service your brakes, contact Presto Auto Electric in Carson City, NV. Why Brake Fluid Needs Attention Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it naturally absorbs moisture from the air over time. This buildup of moisture lowers the boiling point of the brake fluid, causing it to vaporize more quickly under the heat generated during braking. When brake fluid boils, it produces gas bubbles, which can result in a “spongy” or soft brake pedal and reduced braking efficiency. Left unchanged, degraded brake fluid can corrode internal brake components, leading to costly repairs down the road. Signs You May Need a Brake Fluid Flush Spongy or Soft Brake Pedal If your brake pedal feels softer than usual or requires more pressure to engage, this could indicate moisture in the brake fluid, which impacts brake response time. Brake Warning Light Many modern cars have a brake warning light that signals when there’s an issue with the braking system. While this light can be triggered by various issues, brake fluid quality or levels are common culprits. Changes in Brake Fluid Color Fresh brake fluid is usually clear or light amber. If you check the fluid reservoir and notice dark, murky fluid, it may be contaminated and in need of flushing. Poor Braking Performance If your brakes feel less effective, especially during heavy braking or after long drives, it might be due to degraded brake fluid. This is especially important for drivers who navigate steep hills or drive in stop-and-go traffic regularly, as these conditions generate more heat and put added stress on the fluid. How Often to Flush Your Brake Fluid Most manufacturers recommend a brake fluid flush every 2 to 3 years, though this varies depending on your driving habits and vehicle type. High-performance or frequently driven vehicles may need more attention to the braking system. Regularly consulting your owner’s manual and having your brake fluid checked during routine maintenance can help you stay on schedule. Brake Service in Carson City When it comes to safety, nothing beats a healthy set of brakes. While airbags and seatbelts are critical in the event of an accident it is the brakes that could possibly prevent that wreck from ever occurring. If you notice a grinding sound while slowing, experience pulling when you brake, or if your brake pedal vibrates, call us at  (775) 430-4546  or head to Presto Auto Electric for quality brake service in Carson City.

When your vehicle’s check engine light comes on, it’s often followed by a diagnostic trouble code (DTC). These codes are part of the vehicle’s onboard diagnostic (OBD-II) system, which helps identify issues with the engine, transmission, and emissions systems. Understanding what these codes mean can save you time, money, and stress by providing insight into what might be wrong with your car. When you need computer diagnostics and repairs, contact Presto Auto Electric in Carson City, NV. How Diagnostic Codes Work The OBD-II system monitors your vehicle’s performance through a series of sensors. When a sensor detects something out of the ordinary—such as an engine misfire or emissions failure—it triggers the check engine light and records a diagnostic code. Each code corresponds to a specific issue, allowing mechanics (and sometimes even drivers) to pinpoint the problem more easily. Common Diagnostic Codes P0420: Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold This indicates a problem with the catalytic converter, which helps control your vehicle’s emissions. A faulty catalytic converter can lead to increased emissions and reduced performance. P0300: Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire This code signals that your engine is misfiring in more than one cylinder. Causes can range from spark plug issues to fuel delivery problems. P0171: System Too Lean (Bank 1) This means there’s too much air and not enough fuel in the engine’s combustion process, which could be due to a vacuum leak or a failing oxygen sensor. What Should You Do? When you get a diagnostic code, the best approach is to take it to a mechanic who can interpret the data accurately. While some issues are simple to fix—like a loose gas cap that triggers an emissions warning—others may be more complex and require professional tools to diagnose and repair. Ignoring a check engine light or diagnostic code can lead to more serious issues down the line. Addressing problems early ensures that your vehicle runs smoothly, reduces the risk of breakdowns, and saves you money on repairs in the long run. Computer Diagnostics in Carson City At Presto Auto Electric, we use state-of-the-art computer systems to diagnose and repair all sorts of automotive issues. From check engine light repairs to issues with performance and fuel efficiency, our talented staff will get to the bottom of it using highly accurate automotive computer diagnostics. Contact us at (775) 430-4546 for computer diagnostics in Carson City, NV.