Car Repair and Rainy Weather Driving

This scary scenario has happened to so many drivers: fast, hard rain and suddenly you find yourself driving through foot deep water. There are different methods to rainy weather driving. Being aware and driving smart can help you prevent car repair due to rain and water damage.

When you are driving in the rain, keeping your eyes on the road and hands on the wheel may be your only focus. With your windshield wipers going full speed, you are forced to concentrate fully to keep your vehicle on the road and out of the ditch. Spending time in the shop for car repair due to a rainy day accident is frustrating for anyone.

When it comes to rainy day driving, being educated and aware can make all the difference in keeping you and your family safe. Driving in bad weather is scary and extremely dangerous. It is important to avoid standing or rushing water, especially on bridges or raised roadways. Because you are unable to tell the depth of the water, it is best to find a different route.

Driving through standing water could damage your vehicle internally in multiple ways. One of the most common side effects of splashing water is forced car repair on the vehicle's computer system. Often, when a vehicle's computer takes on a lot of water, the electrical system occasionally shuts down.

Little things that can help you on a rainy day will also help you keep your vehicle out of the car repair shop. Driving with your lights on in the rain is an easy way to prevent fended benders. Even in light rain, drivers have difficulty seeing vehicles that do not have their lights turned on. This is a simple way to prevent major and minor accidents.

Teaching yourself not to slam on your brakes in the rain can also save you a lot of heartache. Rain wet roads can be extremely slick; especially in those moments right after the rain has started. Test the road slickness by tapping on your brakes. You may be surprised how just a little bit of rain affects your stopping distance.

To avoid hydroplaning, drive in the middle lane. Most people know that highways and roads are highest in the middle to help with water run off. That means that water occasionally gathers on the outer edges. If you do find yourself hydroplaning, do not panic. Hold the wheel firm and tap on your brakes. This will prevent your vehicle from accelerating and will keep you from traveling into the hydroplane spin.

Finally, make sure your windshield wipers are in good shape. If you have not replaced them in a while, buy yourself a new pair. They are relatively inexpensive and can save you a lot of trouble. Check with your vehicle's manufacturer's book to see what size you need. You may need two different sized wipers for your windshield.