Monsoons are soon expected in most parts of the country, bringing much-awaited relief from the summer heat. The delightful weather and the cool breeze make you want to go on a drive.
However, driving in the rainy season can get tricky due to waterlogging, lower visibility, reduced road traction and bad traffic. Here are a few tips to ensure your vehicle is in top condition for the upcoming showers.
Monsoon car care tips
Follow these six monsoon car care tips to protect your car and drive safely during the rainy season. Carefully check each of the following components for wear and tear:
1. Tyres
Car skidding is common during monsoons due to reduced grip on wet roads. One of the most important car care tips for the rainy season is ensuring your tyres have good tread depth. Tyres with good tread depth provide better traction during monsoons. Change worn-out tyres before driving in monsoons to avoid skidding and improve braking.
Additionally, check the tyre alignment to avoid vibrations. Maintain tyre pressure as it helps in proper rotation and increases the tyre's life. Do not forget to check the spare tyre and keep it in useable condition.
Depending on the tyre brand, type, vehicle, maintenance, road conditions and driving habits, a new tyre may last 10,000 to 50,000 km. A new tyre may cost between ₹4,000 and ₹17,000. If your car tyres are worn out, changing the tyres before the monsoon season is recommended.
2. Wiper blades
Wipers are essential during rain for good visibility and a smooth ride. Check the wiper blades before monsoons, as wipers wear out fast. Maintain the washer fluid to the highest level.
You can also add detergent to the fluid so that it cleans any sticky dirt on the windshield. Get the wipers replaced if you notice any streaking, skipping, squeaking or splitting.
Replace the wiper blades every 12 months for maximum visibility. The price of wiper blades starts from ₹160 and can go up to ₹1,100, according to the brand. Wiper blades are an essential safety feature. Hence, invest in a good quality wiper that is durable and does the job well.
3. Brakes
Brake health is crucial to avoid accidents on wet roads because braking distance increases on a wet surface. Get your brakes cleaned and serviced regularly. Check the brake pads, fluid level and handbrake for optimum braking operation.
Screeching from brakes, vibration in the steering wheel, and grinding noises are warning signs of worn-out brakes. Replacing brake pads and discs may cost you ₹5,000 to ₹20,000.
4. Battery and electrical components
Check your car battery's health; it will work more during the monsoons. Lights and wipers will work on battery power. Hence, ensure that your battery is in good health. Check all the wires and ensure that fuse elements are properly insulated to avoid short circuits during rain.
The average battery life is 3 to 5 years. You can get it replaced under ₹10,000. Always buy branded batteries for your car.
5. Lights
Visibility becomes poor during monsoons; hence check all the car lights, such as headlights, tail lights, fog lamps, etc. Ensure there are no cracks in the glass; otherwise, replace the glass so that water does not enter during the rainy season.
Keep the headlights clean. Get the bulbs and light covers changed if they are damaged. The cost of replacement of lights and covers should fall under ₹5,000, depending on the car and choice of light and covers.
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6. Leaks
The best way to check for leaks is to look for moisture around windows, door sills, the sunroof and carpets. Identify the source if there are any leaks and get it repaired. Also, check if there are any drainage clogs.
Note that the costs mentioned above may vary depending on the service charges, brand and whether you go to an authorised service centre or a local workshop. If your car needs major repairs or servicing before monsoon, you can use an Axis Bank Parallel Car Loan to finance the repair and servicing expenses.
It is a loan against a car with minimum documentation and fast processing. It can help you manage unexpected expenses caused due to a breakdown or damage during monsoons. Learn more about getting a car loan for yourself this season. You can find out more about how to use our car loan EMI calculator and learn more about the interest rates on car loans offered.
Conclusion
Monsoons are unpredictable and challenging. With some rainy season car care tips, you can protect your car and yourself while on the road. Getting pre-monsoon service is always a good idea to ensure your car is ready for monsoon driving. Always go to an authorised service centre and use branded spare parts to ensure safety and durability.
To keep your car clean and dry during monsoons, always keep some stuff handy, such as newspapers, a dry cloth for wiping, and an umbrella.
Disclaimer: This article is for information purpose only. The views expressed in this article are personal and do not necessarily constitute the views of Axis Bank Ltd. and its employees. Axis Bank Ltd. and/or the author shall not be responsible for any direct / indirect loss or liability incurred by the reader for taking any financial decisions based on the contents and information. Please consult your financial advisor before making any financial decision
