How many times has it happened that it began pouring and your car didn’t demand to see a mechanic for repairs? Come monsoon; cars tend to need some kind of repairing or the other, thereby, making you shell out quite a bit on them. But, did you know that timely car servicing coupled with some car maintenance tips can actually help you avoid some of these expenses? Take notes as we compile them below to get your car monsoon ready!
1. Examine your car tyres
Check them for any signs of wear out. Today, most of the car tyres come with tread-wear indicators, and if those on your car tyre wear out, it’s time for you to have them replaced. Tyres with good tread depths are important in avoiding oversteer. They let you have a firmer grip on roads, helping you stay secured against aquaplaning when you come across potholes or spilt oil mixed with water while driving.
While you may keep a spare tyre handy, it is important to check the condition of the spare tyre as well. Look for any punctures and check the air pressure.
2. Check the wipers and their washer tank
Wiper blades do the crucial job of wiping the water away from the windshield during rains. But they are usually not used for most of the year, making dirt and grime to accumulate on them. Plus, the summer sun can be harsh on them, causing them to wear out. So check for their proper functioning, and give the blades a proper cleaning with soap water. If you find that the blades have worn out, get them replaced. Also, if the washer liquid has run down, refill using a washer liquid solution or soap water.
3. Insulate the wires and check the electricals
If there is one thing that reacts adversely to rain than mechanical parts, then it’s electricals. Make sure that all the wiring is well insulated and is in proper working condition. If you find any loose wires, connect them firmly together. Check for other electrical systems like fuses and lights. Replace the non-functioning ones. Also, it is utterly necessary that especially the battery is in peak working condition because during monsoons headlamps, wipers etc. are all being utilised to their full potential, causing it to drain out too soon.
4. Test the brakes and check the brake fluids
Brakes are very important in the rains because of the slippery nature of roads. Check the brake fluid to see that it is at the required level, if not, then you’ll have to top it up. Go to a workshop to get the brake pads and discs checked. If the pads are worn out, they won’t provide enough braking power.
Same goes for the disc; a glance can tell you if it is okay or not. If the disc has a very shiny or glazed look, then it needs to be replaced, as the pads will not be able to slow down the car due to lack of friction.
5. Clean the air filter
Your car’s air filter aids your car’s engine to function uninterruptedly. But in the monsoon, due to high humidity level and more dust, the air filter has to put in extra effort in supplying your car engine with pure air. So make sure you clean the air filter in your car and check it for proper functioning beforehand.
While the air filter is one way of protecting the car’s engine, yet another is to secure it with the Engine Protect add-on cover of our Car Insurance policy. It will have your back for any consequential loss to your car’s engine. It will also compensate for the loss arising out of water ingression, engine damage due to oil leakage and gearbox failure. Thus, going out of its way to protect your car’s engine and keeping you from spending on costly car engine repairs.
Also read:How to maintain your car’s health during the lockdown
Other points to keep in mind for your car’s health:
- Make sure you are parking your car in a safe place in monsoon. Especially when your area is prone to waterlogging.
- Ensure your car’s headlight, tail light and other lights are working fine.
- Check the underbody of your car for any signs of rusting.
- Check rubber panels and seal of windows, windshields, doors for any leaks as the moisture coming in from them can clog the drainage holes with rust.
- Keep the top and external surface of your car free from any leaves or grim as the moisture in them can cause your car’s body to rust on coming in contact with metal.
- Clean any trace of mud or dirt as they can damage your car’s paint. Wash your car regularly in monsoon.
- Ditch the car covers for monsoon. They stick to your car due to the moisture in the air. When the sun comes out, and your car dries, the cover can end up damaging your car’s paint.
- Keep the interiors clean to avoid mould build-up.
- Get your car insured. If your car gets damaged due to natural calamities like flooding or if it suffers accidental damage, a car insurance policy will pay for the repairs. It can also cover you in case of the total loss of your car.