Your vehicle’s braking system is one of its most important safety components. Whether you’re driving through city traffic or cruising down the highway, your brakes need to perform reliably every time you press the pedal. Over time, wear and tear and neglect can reduce braking efficiency. Fortunately, with regular care, you can keep your brakes in strong condition for years. At Prestige Automotive, we provide expert brake service in the greater Helena area. Here are four ways to help maintain your braking system’s performance and safety. Have Your Brakes Inspected Regularly Routine brake inspections are essential to catch early signs of wear or damage. Professional technicians can check your brake pads, rotors, calipers, and fluid levels to ensure everything is working properly. Generally, it’s wise to have your brakes inspected at least once a year. Early detection of issues like leaks or corrosion can prevent more expensive repairs and keep your brakes performing at their best. Replace Brake Pads When Needed Brake pads gradually wear down with use, and delaying replacement can damage the rotors and compromise stopping efficiency. Squealing and grinding when braking are signs that your pads need to be replaced ASAP. Maintain Brake Fluid Brake fluid plays a vital role in transferring pressure from the brake pedal to the wheels. Over time, it can absorb moisture, which reduces its effectiveness and can lead to corrosion in the brake lines. Check your brake fluid level regularly and have it flushed as recommended by your manufacturer. Clean, moisture-free fluid helps ensure consistent hydraulic pressure and reliable braking performance. Don’t Ignore Warning Signs of a Problem Unusual noises, spongy pedals, or longer stopping distances shouldn’t be ignored. These symptoms often indicate worn parts, leaks, or air in the brake lines. Having your vehicle inspected at the first sign of trouble can prevent complete brake failure and help ensure your safety on the road. Brake Service in Helena, MT For expert brake service in Helena and the surrounding area, contact Prestige Automotive at  (406) 442-2724  . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

Shocks are a vital part of your vehicle’s suspension system, helping to absorb bumps, maintain stability, and provide a smooth, controlled ride. When they start to wear out, your car can become more difficult to handle and less safe to drive. Because shocks deteriorate gradually, many drivers don’t realize they need replacement until the problems become serious. At Prestige Automotive, we provide expert suspension repair in the greater Helena area. Here are four common signs that it’s time to replace your shocks. Excessive Bouncing After Bumps One of the clearest indications of worn shocks is excessive bouncing when driving over bumps or potholes. Instead of quickly stabilizing, your vehicle may continue to bounce up and down several times. This happens because the shocks are no longer able to absorb and dampen the impact effectively. Uneven Tire Wear Healthy shocks keep your tires firmly and evenly planted on the road. When shocks start to fail, tires may bounce excessively or make uneven contact with the pavement. Over time, this leads to irregular tire wear, such as bald spots or patches of tread wearing down faster than others. If you notice uneven tire wear, it could be a sign that your suspension system, including the shocks, may need attention. Poor Handling and Stability Worn shocks make it harder to control your vehicle, especially during turns, lane changes, or sudden maneuvers. You may feel like the car sways or leans more than usual when cornering, or that it drifts slightly when driving straight. This reduced stability can make driving more dangerous, particularly at higher speeds or in emergency situations. Fluid Leaks on the Shocks Shocks contain hydraulic fluid that allows them to function properly. When seals wear out, this fluid can leak, reducing the shock’s ability to absorb impacts. If you notice oily residue on or around your shocks, it’s a strong sign they need replacement. Ignoring this issue will only make the ride rougher and the suspension less effective. Suspension 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!