Prestige Automotive Blog
It’s one of the most frustrating feelings—turning the key or pressing the start button, only to find your engine won’t come to life. Whether you’re running late or just trying to get home, a non-starting car throws a wrench into your entire day. There are several possible reasons behind a hard-starting engine, and many of them can be traced to common issues that are easily preventable or fixable with timely maintenance. At Prestige Automotive, our local mechanics are highly experienced with diagnosing and fixing issues that cause hard-starts and no-start. Here are four common car problems that can interfere with a smooth engine start. Dead or Weak Battery One of the most frequent culprits behind starting trouble is a dead or dying battery. If you turn the key and hear a clicking sound or no sound at all, there’s a good chance that your battery is out of juice. Car batteries generally last around 3–5 years, but extreme temperatures, corrosion, or accidentally leaving lights on overnight can drain them more quickly. If your engine cranks slowly or not at all, it’s worth having the battery tested and replaced if needed. Failing Starter Motor The starter motor is what physically cranks your engine to get it running. If the starter begins to fail, you might hear a single loud click or grinding noises when you turn the key. In some cases, the car may not respond at all. Replacing the starter at the first sign of trouble can save you from being stranded. Ignition System Problems If your ignition switch or ignition coil isn’t functioning properly, the engine won’t receive the spark it needs to start. This issue may show up as intermittent starting problems or no start at all. In modern vehicles, ignition system issues may also trigger dashboard warning lights or fault codes that can be read with a scan tool. Ignoring these signs could lead to a complete inability to start your car. Fuel Delivery Issues Your engine needs a precise mix of air and fuel to start. If your fuel pump is malfunctioning, fuel filter is clogged, or injectors aren’t working correctly, the engine may crank but not fire. You might notice sputtering or surging before complete failure. These problems are especially common in cars that have skipped routine maintenance. Auto Repair in Helena, MT For expert auto repair in Helena, MT and the surrounding area, contact Prestige Automotive at (406) 442-2724 . At our nearby auto shop, we can thoroughly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!
Your vehicle’s transmission is a complex system that allows your vehicle to shift gears and deliver power efficiently. Because it handles so much stress, it’s prone to wear over time—but with the right care, you can extend its lifespan significantly. A few good habits and basic upkeep can go a long way toward preserving your transmission. Here are five tips to help keep it running smoothly for years to come. Regularly Check and Change Transmission Fluid Transmission fluid is critical to the health of your transmission. It keeps components lubricated, cools the system, and helps transmit power. Low or dirty fluid can cause poor shifting, overheating, and long-term damage. It’s important to check your transmission fluid regularly—if your vehicle has a dipstick—and follow your manufacturer’s recommended schedule for fluid changes. If you notice that the fluid is dark or smells burnt, it’s time for a change. Never Exceed the Recommended Weight Limits Towing or hauling loads that exceed your vehicle’s rated capacity puts enormous strain on the transmission. This added stress can cause overheating and premature wear. Always check your vehicle’s towing and payload specifications and stick within those limits. Come to a Complete Stop Before Shifting Between Drive and Reverse One common but damaging habit is shifting between drive and reverse without coming to a full stop. Doing this puts sudden pressure on the transmission’s internal components, which can lead to accelerated wear. Always allow the vehicle to come to a complete stop before changing gears to avoid unnecessary stress on the transmission. Pay Attention to Early Warning Signs Your transmission will usually give you early signs if something’s wrong. Slipping gears, delayed shifts, clunking noises, or fluid leaks are all red flags. Addressing issues early can prevent more extensive and expensive damage. Stick to Routine Maintenance Schedules Regular maintenance is your best defense against transmission trouble. In addition to fluid checks and changes, have the mechanic inspect the system during scheduled service intervals. They can look for worn seals, check for leaks, and ensure everything is operating as it should. Preventive care keeps small issues from becoming major problems and helps ensure your transmission lasts for the long haul. Transmission Service in Helena, MT When you need transmission service in Helena, MT and the surrounding area, contact Prestige Automotive at (406) 442-2724 . At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!
Your vehicle’s cooling system is essential for keeping the engine at a safe operating temperature. When this system isn’t working properly, the engine can quickly overheat, leading to serious and expensive damage. Recognizing the signs of a cooling system problem early can help you avoid breakdowns and major repairs. At Prestige Automotive , we provide expert cooling system repair in the greater Helena, MT area. Here are four common indications that something may be wrong with your cooling system. Rising Temperature Gauge Oftentimes, one of the first signs of a cooling system issue is a rising temperature gauge on your dashboard. If the needle consistently moves toward the hot end or the temperature warning light comes on, your engine is likely overheating. This could be caused by low coolant levels, a failing thermostat, a broken radiator fan, or a leak somewhere in the system. Ignoring an overheating engine can lead to severe engine damage, so it’s important to investigate any temperature warning right away. Coolant Leaks Puddles of brightly colored fluid—commonly green, orange, or pink—under your vehicle can indicate a coolant leak. If coolant is escaping, there could be a problem with a hose, the radiator, the water pump, or a gasket. Low coolant levels due to a leak can prevent the system from effectively absorbing and dispersing heat, which can lead to overheating and engine damage. A professional inspection can help pinpoint and repair the leak. Sweet Smell from the Engine Bay A sweet, syrupy odor coming from under the hood is often a sign that coolant is leaking onto hot engine components. This smell is caused by ethylene glycol, a primary ingredient. If you notice this smell, especially when the engine is hot or right after driving, it’s a good idea to check the coolant level (after the engine has cooled down) and look for signs of a leak. Catching the problem early can help prevent further damage to your cooling system and engine. Steam Coming from the Hood If you see steam rising from under the hood while driving or after stopping, your engine is likely overheating. This is a serious sign that the cooling system is failing to regulate temperature. The steam is commonly from coolant that has boiled over due to extreme heat. With this issue, it’s generally best to pull over safely and call for assistance. Cooling System Repair in Helena, MT When you need auto repair in Helena, MT and the surrounding area, contact Prestige Automotive at (406) 442-2724 . At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!
