Spring showers might bring flowers, but they also bring slippery roads, reduced visibility, and tougher driving conditions. Whether you're heading to work or planning a weekend getaway, it's crucial to ensure your vehicle is equipped to handle the rain. In this blog, we’ll cover the key parts and checks that keep you safe on wet roads – from tyres and wipers to lighting and brakes. Don’t let the weather catch you off guard – make sure your car is ready to handle whatever the forecast throws your way.
So, here are some spring car essentials to tackle rainy weather and ensure you stay safe on the road:
1. Wiper blades
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Wiper blades are essential for clearing water, dirt and dust off your windshield. In wet conditions, where visibility is already poor, it’s vital you have working wiper blades, as worn blades can cause streaking and further poor visibility.
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Spring heavy showers make wiper blades a must – you can find options for every model here.
2. Washer fluids
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In addition to your wiper blades, make sure that your reservoir is full with all-season or rain-repellent washer fluid. This can help improve your visibility, especially in the event of heavy rain, mud or spray.
3. Tyres
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Checking your tyres should be at the top of your priority list before setting off in unpredictable weather conditions. Tyre tread depth is vital for grip in wet weather, so if this falls below 3mm, it’s time for new tyres.
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You should also check your tyre pressure – sudden changes in temperature and atmospheric pressure can affect PSI, and under-inflated tyres hydroplane more easily.
4. Brake components
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Driving in wet weather can put extra strain on your braking system, so it’s important to make sure your brake pads, discs and fluids are in good working order.
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Listen to your brakes, a light squeal when you first brake can be normal due to surface moisture. However, grinding, scraping, or persistent squealing could indicate worn brake pads or damaged discs that need attention.
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If your car vibrates or pulls to one side when braking, this could signal warped brake discs or uneven pad wear – both of which affect performance in the wet.
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In wet weather, your brakes should still feel firm and responsive. A spongy or delayed response might mean your brake fluid is contaminated or there's air in the system, reducing stopping power.
5. Headlights and rear lights
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Checking all your lights, including headlights and rear lights, is not just important for you but also important for the safety of drivers around you. Heavy rain makes visibility worse and replacing dim or flickering lights will help keep everyone on the road safe.
6. Battery health
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Sudden changes in the weather, such as rain or cold, can affect your car battery, so if it starts to feel sluggish, it’s important to test it and replace it if needed.
7. Drain channels and scuttle panels
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Before starting your vehicle, make sure you have cleared leaves and debris from scuttle drains under the windscreen. Blockages here can cause leaks into the cabin or electronics.
Be sure to keep safe when the weather gets bad; always check through your list and seek immediate help if you notice anything wrong before taking off on your journey.
