1. Check Your Tires
When the roads are slick, your tires need to be in top condition for maximum traction. Check their tread at the start of the rainy season. Afterward, check the tire pressure, and turn this into a habit every other week.
2. Brake Check
Remember that wet roads make it harder for your brakes to ever get truly dry. When your brakes are constantly in humid Kentucky weather, it may take longer for your car to stop. It's important to make sure your brakes are in good condition and the pads aren't degraded.
It's also a good idea to ask to have these checked when your oil gets changed. At Tony's Brake & Alignment, we perform professional brake checks to make sure everything is in working condition. While driving, watch out for any unusual sounds like grinding or squeaking when you brake. If you hear anything like that, bring your car in to get checked out immediately.
3. Check Your Windshield Wipers
Make sure your windshield wipers are in good condition and replace them if necessary. This is something you may be able to do yourself, or you can ask your mechanic to handle it easily. While checking your wipers, also make sure to check the windshield washer fluid is topped off. This will ensure good visibility on a rainy day.
4. Clean the Headlamps
The glass around your headlamps builds up gunk and gets dirty. At the start of the rainy season, give these a detailed cleaning so they'll be able to shine through the rain. Remember that your headlights keep you visible to other cars on the road.
5. Check the Seals
There are rubber seals around the windows, trunk, hood, and around car doors. These seals keep the water from leaking into the car. Most of us rarely think about these seals until the rubber cracks or breaks and we start seeing water dripping into the vehicle.
Check these over and see if they're degrading. If they're in rough shape, have them replaced before your car sustains interior water damage.
6. Clean and Wax Your Car
Waxing your car often gets brushed off as fairly unnecessary, but can be a really good step at the start of the rainy season. The wax offers a protective layer that makes it easier to clean the car after. It also protects your paint from the harsh debris battering against it during a day of bad weather.
By following these maintenance rules you can keep your car in great working condition despite the weather. During the season and year-round, keep an eye out for anything unusual, like sounds or leaks. For help with maintenance or repairs, contact Tony's Brake & Alignment for quality auto repair that'll keep your car in top condition during the rainy season.