How to Care for Your Car During the Rainy Season

Tap each step to follow along in order.

  1. Check your wipers ahead of time

    Before the rainy season hits, confirm the wiper rubber hasn't hardened or cracked, and if it's leaving streaks instead of clearing the glass, replace it before the heavy rains start.

  2. Check tire wear

    Tires with worn-down tread drain water poorly on wet roads and are more prone to hydroplaning, so check tread depth and pressure together before the rainy season.

  3. Avoid flooded roads

    Standing water on a road or in an underpass can be deeper than it looks, risking water intake into the engine, so detour around it whenever possible, and if you must pass through, go slowly.

  4. Prevent interior humidity and mold

    Wet umbrellas and shoes can build up moisture inside the cabin on rainy days, so ventilate regularly and use your AC's dehumidifying function or a moisture absorber to prevent mold and odors.

  5. Don't start a car you suspect has been flooded

    If a car has been submerged at any point, have it inspected at a shop before starting it. Forcing the engine to start can cause serious internal damage.

  6. Check for corrosion underneath too

    After the rainy season ends, mud and debris can linger on the underside of the car and lead to corrosion, so wash the undercarriage along with the rest of the car.

Safety on Wet Roads and Flood Preparedness Are Key

During the rainy season, heavy downpours can flood roads in a matter of minutes, so it's important to check your wipers and tires more carefully than usual and avoid flood-prone routes ahead of time. A car with a history of flooding can look perfectly fine on the outside while hiding internal damage, so a proper inspection is essential.

Check Your Regular Self-Inspection Checklist While You're At It

Once you've covered rainy-season care, it's worth also looking into a general self-inspection checklist for your car. It builds habits you can use safely all year round.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if my car suddenly starts hydroplaning on a wet road?

Avoid jerking the wheel. Ease off the accelerator and hold your direction steady until the car regains stability.

Can a car that looks fine after a flood still have problems?

Yes. Even if there's no visible damage, water may have gotten into the electrical components or the engine, so a professional inspection is essential.