From checking the wipers to the battery, and also stocking up on spares, here are 10 things to make your car monsoon-proof.
The monsoons provide welcome respite from the sweltering Indian summer, but they can be quite harsh on your vehicle. From slippery roads to potential water damage, the rainy season brings numerous hazards that can result in breakdowns or expensive repairs. Here are 10 useful tips to ensure your vehicle operates safely and efficiently during the inbound monsoon.
1. Check tyres
Worn-out treads mean new tyres
The tyres are the only point of contact between your car and the road, so it goes without saying that it’s extremely crucial to inspect them before heading out during the monsoon. Make sure your tyres have at least 2mm of tread depth, which can be checked using the wear indicators in between the tread.
If the tread depth reaches the level of the indicator, the tyre must be replaced. A suitable tread depth will not only provide more grip on wet roads, but also significantly reduce the stopping distance in instances of hard braking.
2. Test battery and wiring
Battery must be prepared for greater usage of lights and wipers
Water and electronics don’t mix well together, and modern cars have a lot of the latter in them. Therefore, we recommend taking a look at your car’s battery when the monsoons roll around, and especially check for any exposed or frayed wires to avoid short circuits or electrical failures. It’s also worth noting that the usage of wipers and lights will expectedly increase during the monsoons, which could spell trouble for your battery if it’s not in optimal condition.
3. Inspect brakes thoroughly
Brake functioning can be easily tested at home
Braking distances increase on wet roads, so your brakes need to be sharp and function properly. You can test your brakes at home by starting the engine, letting it warm up, and then depressing the brake pedal. Listen for squeaks or grinding sounds, and pay special attention to pedal feel. If the pedal sinks further than expected, there may be a leak in the braking system, and if it judders, the brake pads could be worn out. Should these issues arise, get your brakes inspected and replaced.
4. Replace worn wiper blades
Summers can take a toll on the wiper blades
Arguably the most helpful feature during monsoons, wipers must be prepped for a few months of heightened usage. Check the rubber blades first, as during the summers, they tend to crack from the heat and are rendered ineffective when you need them during the rainy season. Wipers that leave streaks on the windshield or make squeaky noises should be replaced as well. Also, don’t forget to top up the washer fluid with windshield cleaner or soap water.
5. Ensure all lights work
During the monsoon overcast, your car’s lights are essential for both seeing and being seen. Test your headlights, tail-lamps, brake lights, fog lights, and indicators before setting off, especially when it’s dark outside. Replace any dim or flickering bulbs. Getting your headlights and tail-lights fixed or replaced, if they have moisture in them or are hazy, is another important task. Also, ensuring your headlights have an even beam is equally crucial to your safety, as well as that of oncoming vehicles.
6. Check for leaks
Sunroof can be a major pain point
Indian car buyers love sunroofs, but these can end up being a chink in your car’s armour during the monsoons. If your car has a sunroof, look for any signs of potential water entry from the rubber seals around it. This holds true for the windows, doors, and footwells as well. Damaged seals can let rainwater seep into the cabin and cause interior damage and rust. Replace any worn seals and unclog drainage holes in the cabin floor if need be.
7. Look out for rust and underbody damage
Anti-rust coatings are a must for the monsoons
Water and exposed metal give rise to another worrisome concoction: rust. Inspect your car’s body for any scratches, dents, or paint damage and get them fixed before the monsoons kick in to prevent rust formation. Applying an anti-rust coating will provide further protection, and it’s also recommended to clean the underbody regularly to remove mud and road grime, which can lead to rust and wear as well.
8. Monsoon care tips for EV owners
Not as prone to water damage as some might believe
EV adoption is steadily growing in India, and some owners may be rightfully concerned about how their emission-free cars will handle the monsoons. Thankfully, most EV batteries are IP67-rated, which means they are built to be waterproof, but as a precaution, you should always charge your EV in a covered or dry area to prevent the possibility of water or moisture entering the charging port. Also, regularly inspect the rubber seals around the charging flap and electrical connectors to ensure they are intact and water-tight.
9. Stock spare parts and essentials
Extremely handy in emergency circumstances
Should anything go wrong and help is difficult to come by, keep extra fuses, bulbs, wiper blades, and a basic tool kit in the car, along with ensuring that the spare wheel is in good shape. Additionally, pack an umbrella, towel, raincoat, and a change of clothes for emergencies. While these items may seem trivial, they can make a big difference if you find yourself stranded in heavy rain.
10. Get a pre-monsoon service
Can make for worry-free driving throughout the monsoons
A service before the monsoons – ideally from an authorised service centre – is one of the best ways to prevent problems. Mechanics can check every critical system of your car and spot any potential issues early. Be sure to ask for a thorough inspection, especially including the brakes, battery, wiring harness, tyres, wheel balancing, lights, fluid top-ups, etc.
Also see:
Top tips to drive safely during the monsoon season
