Monsoon has arrived in Jharkhand, and several areas including Jamshedpur are now seeing intermittent rain. While the rains bring relief from the heat, this is also the season when car owners need to be extra careful. Getting a few essential checks done on your vehicle in time can help you avoid a lot of monsoon trouble and hefty repair bills later.
Start with the wipers and the battery
According to Pooja, service head at ASL Motors, every vehicle should get a basic health checkup before the monsoon sets in. The first thing to check is the condition of the wiper blades. If the wipers aren't cleaning the windshield properly or are making noise while running, get them replaced right away, since clear visibility is critical for safe driving in the rain.
The battery's condition also needs checking without delay. Rising moisture during the monsoon can cause a weak battery to fail without warning. Get the battery terminals checked for cleanliness and confirm that charging is working properly, before the rains make it harder to deal with.
Don't ignore the lights or the sunroof
Headlights, taillights, indicators and fog lamps all need to be in full working order, because good lighting is essential for safe driving through rain and fog. Vehicles fitted with a sunroof should also have their drainage pipes and seals checked, so that water doesn't leak into the cabin.
Tyre grip and braking strength matter most
Pooja says tyre condition deserves special attention. Tyres need adequate tread depth to maintain a good grip on wet roads. Worn-out tyres can be a major cause of accidents on slippery roads, which is why maintaining the correct tyre air pressure is just as important.
The braking system shouldn't be overlooked either. If you hear any unusual noise while braking, or if the brakes feel weak, get the car checked at a service centre immediately. Roads turn slippery during the monsoon, so a strong braking system is essential for a safe drive.
Check fluid levels and rubber beading too
Engine oil, coolant, windshield washer fluid and other essential fluids should all be checked. Washer fluid needs to be topped up adequately to clear away the grime that builds up on the windshield during rain. Also check the rubber beading around doors and windows, so that rainwater doesn't seep into the vehicle.
Experts recommend keeping an emergency kit ready
Experts advise always keeping a torch, an umbrella, a tow rope, a first aid kit and a list of emergency numbers in the car. Taking care of all these things before the monsoon begins will keep the vehicle safe, make journeys more comfortable, and help avoid major repair costs down the road. A quick round of checks now can spare drivers a much bigger headache once the rains are in full swing.
