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08/12/2020 News

RAIN IS COMING, TAKE THESE NECESSARY PREPARATIONS BEFORE DRIVING

The wet season has arrived, and drivers would be wise to be prepared in this weather condition. Staying fit is important, but so does ensuring that your vehicle is well-equipped to take you places safely.

By being prepared ahead of time, we can minimize hazard risks that are associated with the season, as wet and dry terrain requires different treatment. See our list of components to check to help you make sure you’re ready to go.

1. Engine

Make sure your engine performs well. You may be able to tell if there’s any issue from your daily maintenance or a visit to the auto shop. Engine components, such as spark plugs, should be in your checklist of essential items to assess.

2. Windscreen wiper

Just like any other car components, wiper blades have their lifetime. After a while, the rubber may show signs of wear, bent, or even loses its flexibility. As the result, it won’t be able to clear the rain. Under hard rain, this will affect visibility, even putting you in danger. Check if your wiper still works well and fix or replace it if needed.

3. Tire pressure and grip

Car tires must be checked from time to time regardless of weather, but there are some specific issues to consider in a wet season. On a wet surface, tire tread will evacuate water to avoid aquaplaning. To ensure your tires perform well, the tread should be at least 50% depth of new tires, which have at least 1.5 cm depth. Also check tire pressure; see your owner’s manual or check the sticker on driver’s door jamb to know the recommended PSI.

READ ALSO: UNDERSTANDING THE AUTOMATIC GEAR SHIFTER

4. Battery

Make sure there are no exposed cables that can cause electrical short when in contact with water. Check your battery and ensure your car’s electricals will work well in a wet weather.

5. Wiper re-fill

This step may often be overlooked by drivers. During rain, wiper fluid can help keep your windscreen clean. Simply make sure there is enough fluid by checking the washer fluid reservoir under the hood.

You may also add special windscreen cleaning solvent to remove fat and dirt that may hinder your visibility, and then check that your wiper is functioning.

6. Lamps

We all know that car lamps are vital and even more so when you need to drive under heavy rain, as light from the lamps can assist your visibility. Always test your headlamps, turn signals, fog lamps, rear lamps before you head out.

7. AC

During rain, your AC will prevent condensation, which creates fog that will blur your windows from the outside. So, you will want to check your AC and make sure it functions – including to keep the temperature cool in the cabin.

8. Avoid leakages

A simple way to look for leakages is by taking your car to a drive-thru, automatic washing service. While in the car, pay attention for any sign of leakage. If found, no matter how slight, it is always advisable to take your car to the auto shop to take a closer look or to replace a damaged component.

9. Nice-to-Have Equipment

Now that your car is thoroughly checked, why not take an extra step, and prepare a rainy-day kit: umbrella, flip flops, towel, and an extra set of clothes. Give yourself a peace of mind, especially during bad weather where you’ll never know when you will need to leave your car amid heavy rain.

10. Route planning

Finally, thanks to the internet, you can plan your route to avoid inundated and traffic-clogged roads. At times, an alternative route can get you to your destination faster.

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