Winter in Montana brings beautiful landscapes, but also harsh conditions that can be tough on vehicles. Preparing your car for Montana’s icy roads, freezing temperatures, and heavy snow can help you stay safe and prevent costly breakdowns. At Prestige Automotive, we provide expert winter auto maintenance in the greater Helena area. Here's a look at five important winter auto maintenance tasks. Test the Battery Cold weather can significantly reduce a car battery's capacity. The last thing you want is a dead battery on a freezing morning. To prevent this, have your battery tested before winter sets in to ensure it has enough power. Consider Switching to Winter Tires Unlike all-season tires, winter tires are designed with deeper treads and softer rubber compounds that stay flexible in freezing temperatures, providing better traction on snow and ice. Check your tires for adequate tread depth, and if you already have winter tires from previous years, inspect them for wear before re-installing. Inspect and Top Off Fluids Make sure your car has the right amount of antifreeze to prevent freezing. It’s also essential to check your windshield washer fluid. Use a winter-grade windshield washer fluid that won’t freeze and keep an extra bottle in your trunk for convenience. Check the Heating and Defrosting Systems Proper heating and defrosting are crucial for comfort and visibility. Make sure your car’s heater is working efficiently, and test the defrosters. These systems are essential for clearing frost, fog, and ice from your windows, helping you stay warm and ensuring a clear view of the road. If the defroster seems weak or takes too long to work, have it inspected by the mechanic. Replace Wiper Blades and Keep an Emergency Kit Winter weather can quickly wear down windshield wipers, so it’s a good idea to replace them with winter-grade blades that can handle snow and ice. Clear visibility is essential on icy roads, and effective wipers can make a big difference. Also, pack an emergency kit in your car, including blankets, non-perishable food, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, and an ice scraper. Winter Auto Maintenance in Helena, MT When you need auto maintenance 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 schedule an appointment!

Your vehicle’s alternator plays a crucial role in keeping the electrical system running smoothly. It generates electricity to power components like the lights, radio, and air conditioning, while also charging the battery. When the alternator starts to fail, it can lead to several issues that should not be ignored. At Prestige Automotive, we provide expert alternator replacement and auto electric repair in the greater Helena area. Here are five common signs of alternator trouble. Dim or Flickering Lights A common early sign of alternator trouble is dim or flickering headlights and interior lights. As the alternator weakens, it struggles to supply enough power to keep all of the electrical systems operating at full strength. Dead Battery A failing alternator can’t adequately charge the battery, leading to dead battery problems. While a battery has a limited lifespan, if yours keeps dying even after jump-starts or replacements, it could be an alternator problem rather than a battery issue. The alternator is responsible for recharging the battery as you drive, and if it’s not working properly, the battery won’t stay charged. Strange Noises If you hear unusual noises, such as a grinding or whining sound from under the hood, this could indicate a problem with the alternator’s bearings or belt. A slipping belt that drives the alternator can produce a high-pitched squeal, signaling an issue. Warning Light on the Dashboard If the battery or alternator warning light comes on, it’s a clear sign that something is wrong with the charging system. This light may be shaped like a battery or have ALT or GEN written on it. Even if the car seems to be running fine, don’t ignore this warning, as it indicates a charging issue that needs attention. Electrical Accessory Failures When the alternator starts to fail, you may notice that your car’s electrical systems are acting erratically. Power windows may be sluggish, the radio might cut out, or the air conditioning may not blow as strong as it should. These electrical failures occur because the alternator can’t produce enough power to keep all the systems working properly. Alternator Replacement & Auto Electric 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 schedule an appointment!