Our Blogs

As the summer heat begins to fade and cooler temperatures arrive in Northern California, it's the perfect time to give your vehicle some extra attention. While Redding may not experience the harsh winters found in other parts of the country, the changing seasons still bring challenges for drivers, including cooler mornings, occasional heavy rain, reduced daylight, and changing road conditions. At Perry's Automotive in Redding, CA , we know that keeping your vehicle running safely and reliably starts with preventative care. A little maintenance today can help you avoid unexpected breakdowns, costly repairs, and unnecessary stress as the seasons change. Whether you're commuting around Redding, heading into the mountains for a weekend getaway, or preparing for holiday travel, this fall vehicle maintenance checklist will help you get your car ready for the road ahead. 1. Check Your Vehicle's Fluids Your vehicle relies on several essential fluids to keep its systems operating properly. After months of driving through Northern California's summer heat, fall is an excellent time to check fluid levels and conditions. Important fluids to inspect include: Engine Oil: Regular oil changes help protect your engine from wear and keep it running efficiently. Check your oil level and follow your manufacturer's recommended service intervals. Coolant: Your cooling system works year-round to regulate engine temperature. Proper coolant levels and condition help protect against overheating and freezing. Brake Fluid: Brake fluid is essential for responsive braking. Low or contaminated fluid may indicate a maintenance concern that requires professional attention. Transmission Fluid: Proper transmission fluid levels and condition help support smooth shifting and long-term transmission performance. Windshield Washer Fluid: Fall rain and road grime can quickly reduce visibility. Keep your washer fluid reservoir filled with an appropriate cleaning solution. A professional vehicle inspection can help identify low fluid levels, leaks, and maintenance needs before they turn into expensive problems. 2. Inspect Your Brakes Before Rainy Weather Arrives Reliable brakes are important throughout the year, but they become especially critical when roads are wet or slippery. As fall progresses in Redding, changing weather conditions can make stopping distances less predictable. Worn brake pads, damaged rotors, or other braking system concerns can affect your ability to stop safely. Watch for these common signs of brake trouble: Squealing, grinding, or unusual noises when braking Vibrations or pulsations when pressing the brake pedal A soft or spongy brake pedal Your vehicle pulling to one side while braking Increased stopping distances If you notice any of these symptoms, don't wait for the problem to get worse. At Perry's Automotive, a professional brake inspection can help identify worn components and potential safety concerns so you can drive with greater confidence. 3. Check Tire Pressure and Tread Depth Your tires are the only part of your vehicle that makes direct contact with the road, making their condition especially important as the weather changes. When temperatures drop, tire pressure naturally decreases. Even a modest change in temperature can affect inflation levels, potentially influencing handling, tire wear, and fuel efficiency. Before heading into the fall driving season, make sure to: Check Tire Pressure: Use the manufacturer's recommended pressure, typically found on the driver's door jamb label. Inspect Tread Depth: Worn tread reduces your tires' ability to channel water away from the road, increasing the risk of hydroplaning. Look for Uneven Wear: Uneven tire wear may indicate alignment, suspension, or inflation issues. Inspect for Damage: Check for cracks, bulges, punctures, and other visible signs of tire damage. Consider Tire Rotation: Regular rotations can help promote more even wear and extend tire life. If your fall travel plans include driving toward Shasta Lake, Mount Shasta, or other mountain destinations, properly maintained tires are particularly important as road and weather conditions change. A tire inspection is a simple step that can make a meaningful difference in your vehicle's safety and performance. 4. Test Your Battery Before Cooler Mornings After enduring Redding's hot summer temperatures, your vehicle's battery may already be experiencing wear. Heat can accelerate battery deterioration, while cooler temperatures can make an aging or weakened battery's problems more noticeable. One of the most frustrating ways to start a chilly fall morning is with a vehicle that won't start. Common warning signs of a weak battery include: Slow engine cranking when starting Dim headlights or interior lights Clicking sounds when turning the key or pressing the start button Corrosion around battery terminals Frequent jump-starts or difficulty starting If your battery is several years old or showing signs of weakness, having it professionally tested can help you determine whether replacement is necessary. A battery and charging system check during your fall maintenance appointment can help reduce the chance of being stranded unexpectedly. 5. Make Sure Your Visibility Systems Are Ready As daylight hours shorten and fall weather becomes less predictable, good visibility is essential for safe driving. Rain, early morning fog, and darker evening commutes can make it more difficult to see road hazards and other vehicles. Take a few minutes to inspect these important components: Windshield Wipers Redding's hot, dry summers can cause windshield wiper blades to harden, crack, or deteriorate. If your wipers leave streaks, skip across the glass, or make unusual noises, it's time to consider replacing them. Headlights and Taillights Check that your headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and taillights are working properly. Clean cloudy or dirty headlight lenses to help maintain visibility. Defroster and Climate Controls Cooler mornings can cause condensation to form on your windshield and windows. Make sure your defroster and heating systems work correctly so you can clear fogged glass quickly. Windshield Condition Inspect your windshield for chips or cracks that could interfere with your view or worsen with temperature changes. Keeping these systems in good working order helps you see clearly and makes your vehicle more visible to other drivers. 6. Don't Forget Your Heating and Cooling Systems Even though summer is over, your vehicle's cooling system still plays a critical role in protecting your engine. Coolant circulates through the engine to help maintain proper operating temperatures, regardless of the weather outside. Your heating system also becomes more important as mornings and evenings grow cooler. During a fall maintenance inspection, it's a good idea to check for: Coolant leaks or low coolant levels Worn or damaged hoses Cooling system performance issues Heater operation Proper airflow through the defroster vents Addressing small issues now can help prevent inconvenient repairs when you need your vehicle most. 7. Schedule a Comprehensive Fall Vehicle Inspection While checking a few basic items at home is helpful, a professional vehicle inspection provides a more thorough look at your car's overall condition. At Perry's Automotive in Redding, CA , we believe preventative maintenance is one of the best ways to protect your investment and help keep your vehicle dependable. A comprehensive fall inspection can help evaluate important systems, including: Brakes and related components Tire condition and inflation Battery and charging system Essential fluid levels and condition Belts and hoses Lights, windshield wipers, and visibility systems Heating and cooling system components The goal isn't just to find problems. It's to help you understand your vehicle's condition, address developing concerns, and plan for upcoming maintenance. Why Fall Preventative Maintenance Matters in Redding, CA Northern California drivers experience a unique combination of driving conditions. From Redding's intense summer heat to cooler fall mornings and seasonal rainfall, vehicles must adapt to changing temperatures and road conditions. Regular preventative maintenance can help: Improve Safety: Properly maintained brakes, tires, and visibility systems support safer driving. Reduce Unexpected Breakdowns: Identifying worn or failing components early may help prevent roadside emergencies. Protect Vehicle Performance: Routine maintenance helps essential systems operate as intended. Avoid Costly Repairs: Addressing minor concerns before they become major problems can save money over time. Extend Vehicle Life: Following recommended maintenance schedules helps protect your vehicle for the long haul. Whether you drive a daily commuter, family SUV, pickup truck, or an older vehicle with higher mileage, seasonal maintenance is a smart investment. Get Your Vehicle Fall-Ready at Perry's Automotive in Redding, CA Don't wait until the first major rainstorm or an unexpected cold morning to discover that your vehicle needs attention. Taking care of routine maintenance now can help you enjoy safer, more reliable driving throughout the fall and into winter. At Perry's Automotive , we're proud to help Redding-area drivers stay ahead of vehicle maintenance needs with professional inspections and dependable automotive care. Prepare your vehicle for the changing season with a comprehensive inspection at Perry's Automotive. Visit www.perrysautomotiveinc.com to learn more about our services and contact our team to schedule your fall vehicle inspection. Stay prepared. Drive confidently. Make fall maintenance a priority with Perry's Automotive in Redding, CA.

The holidays have a way of arriving faster than expected. Between shopping, family gatherings, school events, and travel plans, your schedule can fill up quickly. The last thing you want to add to your holiday to-do list is an unexpected vehicle problem.  That’s why now is a great time to take care of your car’s maintenance and repair needs. At Perry’s Automotive Inc., we help drivers throughout Redding, CA keep their cars, trucks, and SUVs dependable year-round. Taking care of needed maintenance before the holiday rush can give you greater confidence when it’s time to hit the road. Don't Wait Until Holiday Travel Begins Whether you are driving across Redding for a family gathering or heading out of town for the holidays, your vehicle may be doing more driving than usual. Small problems that are easy to overlook during your normal routine can become much bigger inconveniences when you are traveling. Scheduling an inspection or maintenance service ahead of time gives you an opportunity to address concerns before your holiday plans are underway. If your vehicle has been making an unusual noise, displaying a warning light, or reminding you that maintenance is due, now is the time to have it checked. Car Care to Consider Before the Holidays Every vehicle has different maintenance needs based on its age, mileage, condition, and service history. However, several areas are especially worth checking before a busy season of driving. Check Your Tires Your tires play an important role in braking, steering, and overall vehicle control. Before holiday travel, consider having your tires checked for: Proper tire pressure Uneven or excessive tread wear Low tread depth Cracks, damage, or other concerns Good tire condition becomes especially important when roads are wet or when your holiday travels take you into colder areas. Have Your Battery Checked A weak battery can sometimes provide little warning before it leaves you unable to start your vehicle. If your battery is several years old, your vehicle has been slow to start, or you've noticed electrical issues, having the battery and charging system checked can help identify a potential problem before a holiday trip. Stay Current on Oil Changes and Scheduled Maintenance If your oil change or other scheduled maintenance is approaching, getting it done before the holidays can make sense. Routine maintenance helps protect your vehicle and gives your automotive technician an opportunity to identify developing concerns. At Perry’s Automotive Inc., scheduled maintenance services can include everything from routine oil changes to 30K, 60K, and 90K services and other manufacturer-recommended maintenance. Make Sure Your Brakes Are Ready Holiday traffic and road trips can put plenty of demand on your braking system. Pay attention to warning signs such as: Squealing or grinding noises A brake pedal that feels different than usual Vibration when braking Your vehicle pulling while braking A brake or ABS warning light If something doesn't feel or sound right, don't put off having your brakes inspected. Check Fluids and the Cooling System Your vehicle relies on several fluids to operate properly. Before a longer trip, it's a good idea to make sure fluid levels and conditions are where they should be. Depending on your vehicle, this may include checking: Engine oil Coolant Brake fluid Transmission fluid Power steering fluid Windshield washer fluid Your cooling system is important throughout the year, so any leaks, overheating concerns, or unexplained changes in coolant level should be addressed. Inspect Lights and Wipers Shorter daylight hours mean many drivers spend more time behind the wheel after dark during the holiday season. Make sure your headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and other exterior lights are working properly. Your windshield wipers should also provide a clear view without excessive streaking or skipping. Address That Warning Light Before Your Trip It's tempting to ignore a warning light when your vehicle still seems to be driving normally. However, warning lights are there for a reason. Some indicate relatively minor concerns, while others can point to problems that require prompt attention. Modern vehicles contain sophisticated computer systems, and proper diagnostic equipment can help determine what's actually causing that light to appear. Perry’s Automotive Inc. uses modern automotive diagnostic tools to help identify vehicle problems and recommend repairs based on what your vehicle actually needs. Preventive Maintenance Can Help You Avoid Holiday Headaches Preventive maintenance isn't simply about checking items off a list. It's about keeping your vehicle safe, reliable, and ready when you need it. Taking care of maintenance now may help reduce the chances of dealing with problems when you'd rather be spending time with friends and family. It also gives you more opportunity to plan repairs rather than being forced to address an unexpected breakdown in the middle of a busy holiday schedule. Make Your Holiday Road Trip Checklist Easier If you're preparing for holiday travel, add your vehicle to your planning list. Before leaving, make sure you have: Current vehicle maintenance completed Tires inspected and properly inflated Brakes checked if you have noticed any concerns Battery condition checked Fluid levels inspected Lights and wipers working properly Warning lights or unusual noises diagnosed Taking care of these items ahead of time can make preparing for your holiday trip much easier. Schedule Auto Repair and Maintenance in Redding, CA Don't wait until the week of your holiday trip to think about your vehicle. Perry’s Automotive Inc. has been serving the Redding, California community since 1968. Our team provides full-service automotive repair, scheduled maintenance, preventive maintenance, light truck diesel repair, diagnostics, and more for Domestic and Asian vehicles. Our goal is straightforward: provide quality automotive service and repair with honesty, integrity, and recommendations you can understand. If your vehicle needs maintenance or you've been putting off a repair, take care of it before the holiday rush. Contact Perry’s Automotive Inc. in Redding, CA today or request an appointment online to get your vehicle ready for the holidays.

Check Engine Light On? Here's What It Could Mean Seeing the check engine light come on can be unsettling, especially when your vehicle seems to be driving normally. While the light does not always mean you are facing a major engine repair, it is your vehicle’s way of telling you that something needs attention. Ignoring that warning can allow a relatively minor problem to become more expensive over time. Professional check engine light diagnosis in Redding, CA can identify what is causing the warning and help you make an informed decision about the next step. At Perry’s Automotive Inc., we use professional auto diagnostics to get to the source of the problem rather than simply guessing based on the warning light. Why Does the Check Engine Light Come On? Modern vehicles have computers and sensors that constantly monitor the engine, emissions system, fuel system, and other components. When the vehicle’s computer detects a reading outside its expected range, it stores a diagnostic trouble code and may turn on the check engine light. There are many possible causes, ranging from simple to more involved. 1. A Loose or Damaged Gas Cap One of the simplest causes of a check engine light is a loose, missing, or damaged gas cap. The gas cap helps keep the fuel system sealed. If it cannot maintain the proper seal, your vehicle may detect a leak in the evaporative emissions system and turn on the warning light. Before assuming something serious is wrong, make sure your gas cap is properly tightened. If the light stays on, professional diagnostics can determine whether another issue is present. 2. A Failing Oxygen Sensor Your vehicle uses oxygen sensors to monitor the exhaust and help the engine computer maintain the proper air-to-fuel mixture. When an oxygen sensor begins to fail, you may notice symptoms such as: Reduced fuel economy Rough engine performance Increased emissions A check engine light Because similar symptoms can have several causes, testing is important before replacing parts. 3. Spark Plug or Ignition Problems Spark plugs and ignition components play an important role in burning fuel properly inside the engine. Worn spark plugs, damaged ignition coils, or related problems can cause an engine misfire. You might notice: Shaking or rough idling Hesitation when accelerating Reduced power Poor fuel economy A flashing or steady check engine light Ignoring an engine misfire can potentially lead to damage elsewhere in the vehicle, so prompt diagnosis is important. 4. Catalytic Converter Problems The catalytic converter is part of your vehicle’s emissions system. It helps reduce harmful pollutants in the exhaust. Catalytic converter problems can sometimes be the result of another issue that has been left unresolved, such as repeated engine misfires or improper fuel combustion. Because catalytic converters can be expensive to replace, addressing check engine light problems early may help prevent a smaller issue from developing into a more significant repair. 5. Mass Airflow Sensor Issues The mass airflow sensor measures how much air is entering the engine so the vehicle’s computer can determine the appropriate amount of fuel. If the sensor becomes dirty or begins to fail, you may experience: Hard starting Rough idling Hesitation Poor acceleration Reduced fuel efficiency Professional auto diagnostics can determine whether the sensor itself is responsible or whether another condition is causing incorrect readings. 6. Fuel or Emissions System Problems Your check engine light can also be triggered by problems involving fuel delivery, vacuum leaks, emissions controls, or other sensors. This is one reason a diagnostic trouble code should not automatically be treated as a diagnosis. A code identifies the system where the vehicle detected a problem, but additional testing may be needed to determine the actual cause. Is It Safe to Drive With the Check Engine Light On? That depends on how the light is behaving and how your vehicle is running. A steady check engine light often indicates a problem that should be inspected soon. If the vehicle appears to be driving normally, you may be able to drive it to a repair shop for diagnosis. A flashing check engine light deserves more immediate attention. It can indicate a serious misfire or another problem that could cause additional damage. If the light is flashing or your vehicle is shaking, losing power, overheating, making unusual noises, or otherwise driving abnormally, avoid continuing to drive unnecessarily. Why Professional Auto Diagnostics Matter Reading a trouble code is only the beginning of diagnosing a check engine light. A code might point technicians toward a particular system or component, but replacing the component named in the code without additional testing can result in unnecessary repairs. Professional auto diagnostics may involve checking live vehicle data, testing sensors and circuits, inspecting related components, and determining why the computer set the code in the first place. The goal is to identify the underlying problem and recommend the repair your vehicle actually needs. Taking Care of the Problem Early Can Save Money It can be tempting to ignore a check engine light when your vehicle still seems to run normally. Unfortunately, some problems become more costly when left unresolved. For example, an ignition problem that begins with a worn component may eventually affect other parts of the emissions or engine management system. Getting the vehicle checked early gives you the opportunity to address the problem before it develops further. It can also help restore fuel efficiency, drivability, and confidence in your vehicle. Need Check Engine Light Diagnosis in Redding, CA? If your check engine light is on, you do not have to guess what it means. Perry’s Automotive Inc. provides professional check engine light diagnosis in Redding, CA to help drivers identify the cause of warning lights and determine the appropriate repair. Whether your vehicle needs routine diagnostics or more extensive engine repair in Redding, our team can help get to the source of the problem. Schedule professional diagnostics with Perry’s Automotive Inc. before a small issue has the opportunity to become a major repair. Schedule an appointment with Perry’s Automotive Inc.

As summer comes to an end and the school year begins, daily routines become busier. Between morning drop-offs, afternoon pick-ups, sports practices, and extracurricular...

Northern California summers bring plenty of sunshine, but they also bring extreme heat that can take a serious toll on your vehicle's tires. Whether you're commuting around...

If you've noticed your vehicle pulling to one side, your steering wheel sitting crooked, or your tires wearing unevenly, your vehicle may be due for a wheel alignment.