In Nigeria, the condition of roads can be challenging for drivers during the rainy season, ranging from full drainage systems to potholes and traffic jams, making it difficult for car owners to navigate their way. Therefore, knowing how to take care of your vehicle is essential for safety and avoiding costly repairs.
Rainy seasons can cause rust and corrosion, especially on metal parts, while also damaging electrical components through moisture ingress, which can lead to short circuits and malfunctions in systems such as the engine, lights, and sensors.
Water entering the engine can cause damage, while persistent exposure to rainwater can promote mould and mildew growth inside the car. Other components, like brakes and batteries, can also fail due to increased usage and exposure to moisture.
Keeping your cars in good condition in all seasons not only preserves value but also keeps them safe on the road.
Regardless of these challenges, in no particular order, here are several car care tips every driver needs to know this rainy season.
Windshield wipers
Windshield wipers should be replaced either 6 months to a year or as soon as you notice some difficulties in driving visibility in the rain. Keep your wiper fluid filled to the brim
Replace wipers if they leave streaks or squeal. Squeaking, skipping, and smearing begin when your wiper no longer makes proper contact with your windshield. Clean, check, or change if needed.
Check your tyres
This is one of the basic car care tips you should know. Check the thread depth, maintain your tyre pressure; both over- and under-inflation can be risky in wet conditions.
Bald tyres increase the risk of hydroplaning (that’s when your tyres lose grip and your car feels like it’s ice-skating)
Hydroplaning is when water builds up between your tyres and the road, making you temporarily lose control.
Read also: 10 safety tips for driving in the rain
Brakes
Get your brakes checked (pads, discs, and fluid), avoid sudden braking in rain; pump brakes gently, and listen for any screeching or softness in the pedal. You need to have a good braking system.
Don’t be in a hurry while driving in the rain; slowing down will reduce the risks of being in an unexpected event, just relax.
Car battery
Check your car battery condition always, as heavy use of electrical components in the rain can strain it.
Keep the battery and its terminals clean to prevent corrosion, and check its terminals for any signs of damage or corrosion. If the battery gets wet, allow it to dry completely before use.
Car lights
Rain reduces visibility for everyone, so you need to check if your lights are functioning properly, both the headlights and brake lights.
Clean headlights to prevent cloudiness and check for cracks that could let water in. Good lighting is one of the simplest safety tips for rainy season driving. Use hazard lights while driving in the rain.
Rusting
Do not drive through deep water, as it can cause significant engine and electrical damage.
Apply an anti-rust coating to the undercarriage, use silicone-based lubricants on door hinges and locks, and clean your car regularly to avoid mud buildup.
Anti-rust coating is a spray or sealant that protects your car’s metal parts from rusting due to moisture.
