The Indian monsoon, while a welcome respite from the scorching summer heat, brings its own set of challenges, especially for car owners. Waterlogged roads, reduced visibility, and increased risk of accidents can take a toll on your vehicle. However, with proper monsoon car care and preventive measures, you can safeguard your car from the challenges posed by the rainy season.
While buying car insurance is a safety net against unforeseen damages, taking proactive steps to protect your vehicle is equally important.
Let’s explore some tips for car care during the rainy season.
10 Monsoon Car Care Tips
Following are ten essential tips for monsoon car care to ensure your vehicle remains in optimal condition:
1. Check and Maintain Your Tyres
One of the monsoon menaces is hydroplaning, a dangerous situation where your car loses traction on wet roads. Your car’s tyres are a lifeline to save yourself on such roads. Make sure they have sufficient tread depth for optimal grip on wet roads. Underinflated tyres increase the risk of hydroplaning, so keep them properly inflated. Regularly inspect your tyres for wear and tear, and promptly replace them if needed.
2. Maintain Clear Visibility
Car owners often neglect wiper blades during the dry season. But in the rain, worn-out wiper blades can significantly obstruct your view, making driving hazardous. Regularly inspect your wipers for damage and replace them when necessary to maintain optimal performance. To prevent damage during extended storage, keep wiper blades upright. Additionally, keep your wiper fluid topped up.
3. Ensure the Proper Functioning of the Lights
Heavy rain drastically reduces visibility. Ensure all your car’s lights, including headlights, taillights, and indicators, function properly. Clean the light lenses regularly to prevent dirt and grime from affecting their brightness. Properly functioning lights are essential not only for your safety but also for the safety of other drivers in low-visibility conditions.
4. Shield Your Car’s Exterior
Get your car’s paint waxed before the monsoon to protect it from the harsh effects of rain and humidity. A good wax coating will create a protective layer that repels water and prevents rust. Consider using a plastic coating on parts like the cladding and wipers for extra protection. In addition, apply an anti-rust spray to the underbody to safeguard your car’s metal frame.
5. Protect Your Car’s Interior
Keep your car’s interior dry to prevent mould and mildew growth. Regularly vacuum carpets and seats, clean upholstery and surfaces with appropriate products, remove dust and grime from the dashboard and door panels, use air fresheners to eliminate odours, and avoid wet items and food inside the car to prevent moisture buildup. A clean interior not only looks good but also helps reduce windshield fogging.
6. Test the Brakes
Rainy conditions demand peak brake performance. Inspect and replace worn brake pads. Ensure brake fluid is topped up, as it is essential for effective braking. Check brake lines and rotors for damage and replace them if necessary. Regular checks and maintenance will help you stay safe on wet roads. After driving through flooded areas, gently apply the brakes to clear water and restore braking efficiency.
7. Maintain Battery Health
The monsoon’s humidity can affect your car’s battery. Accumulated corrosion on battery terminals can hinder its power output. Clean the terminals with a wire brush or a specialised cleaner to maintain optimal battery function. Removing this corrosion ensures efficient power flow and reliable engine performance during the monsoon’s demanding weather conditions.
8. Keep the Exhaust System in Check
Heavy rains can lead to water entering the exhaust system, potentially causing rust and corrosion. Regularly inspect the exhaust system for any signs of damage or rust and ensure it is adequately sealed. A well-maintained exhaust system improves performance and reduces the risk of harmful emissions.
9. Parking in Rains
Protect your car from monsoon damage by parking it in covered areas. Avoid parking in low-lying areas prone to flooding, as this can cause severe damage to your vehicle. If covered parking isn’t available, use a waterproof car cover for added protection. Taking these precautions can help ensure your car remains in good condition even during heavy rainfall.
10. Drive Cautiously
Monsoon car care tips cannot be complete without some safe driving tips for the monsoon.
- Reduce speed and avoid sudden manoeuvres.
- Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.
- Avoid sudden braking and acceleration.
- Use low beams in heavy rain.
- Be cautious on slippery surfaces.
- Avoid driving through waterlogged areas.
- Use headlights even during daylight.
- Defog windows to prevent obstruction.
- Carry an emergency kit for unexpected situations.
By adhering to these monsoon car care tips and staying vigilant on the road, you can significantly reduce the risk of car-related problems during the rainy season. Car care is an ongoing process, not just a seasonal activity.
For ultimate peace of mind, go beyond third-party car insurance and opt for comprehensive car insurance online from Generali Central. Third-party car insurance covers damages to other vehicles and property, but a comprehensive policy also covers damages to your own vehicle.
Protect yourself and your car this monsoon with Generali Central Car Insurance. Get a quote today and drive worry-free!
