As summer fades into a cool fall breeze, you can expect to see more and more rainfall. Are you and your car ready for the coming storms? Here are some tips to get your car in tiptop shape to keep you and your family safe this rainy season.
Check your Windshield Wipers
Driving with bad windshield wipers can be the difference between seeing the road or seeing a blur of lights. Old or worn down windshield wipers can actually make seeing through heavy rain worse than not using them at all. If pieces of rubber are detached from the main wiper, it’s time to replace them.
Check your tread
It’s important to check your tires before every season, especially when you are getting ready for fall and winter. Having a proper amount of tire tread can help keep you on the road during difficult conditions, whether it’s snow or rain. What is the proper amount of tread? You should have no less than 4/32 inches of tread, especially in hazardous road conditions. So how do you know when you have less than 4/32 inches of tread? If you place a quarter within the tread of your tire (make sure it’s head down!) and any part of Washington’s head is covered, then you’re safe!
Check your Headlights and Use them
Your headlights can’t help you see if they don’t work! Checking your headlights is one of the easiest steps for making your car rain ready. You can pull up to any wall at night and turn your headlights on. You should be able to see your lights reflecting on the wall. If the lights are lopsided, meaning that only one is on, then one needs to be replaced. If the lights are dull, then you need to give your headlights a little extra love during your next car wash or you can replace them with brighter bulbs. Did you know: in North Carolina, it is legally required to have your lights on when you start your windshield wipers.
Use Hazard lights
If you can’t see through the rain or fog, neither can anyone else. If your worried that the car behind you won’t see you as you slow down, then turn on your hazard lights. The orange lights are brighter than your red brake lights and can break through the thick weather, allowing other drivers to see you. This is especially crucial for driving on highways, freeways, and roads with higher speed limits. This tip should only be used in extreme weather conditions, like when you can’t see the person in front of you or behind you.
If you are unsure whether your rain ready or need anything replaced, give The Car Place a call and schedule your fall and winter vehicle maintenance today!