Car Preparation Tips Before the Rainy Season, Check These 8 Components
The rainy season of 2026 is approaching, according to BMKG it is predicted that rain will fall evenly across Indonesia starting in November, but in some areas, rain has already started to fall as seen in parts of West Java today. Slippery roads, limited visibility, and water puddles can increase risks during travel for drivers. Therefore, vehicles need to be ensured to be in good condition so that the journey remains safe and comfortable.
Before driving during the rainy season, it is advisable for friends to check several important components, starting from tires, wipers, braking systems, to vehicle lights. This preparation helps reduce the risk of road issues and supports safety during the journey.
So, what components of the car need to be checked before the rainy season? Here is the guide.
1. Check the Condition and Tire Pressure
Tires are one of the important components when driving on wet roads. Worn tire tread can reduce grip and water drainage capability, thus increasing the risk of aquaplaning. This condition occurs when a layer of water causes the tires to lose adequate contact with the road surface.
Check the tread depth and the tire wear indicator or Tread Wear Indicator (TWI). Do not wait until the tread reaches the wear limit to start considering tire replacement, especially if the car is often used in the rain.
Also, ensure that the tire pressure is according to the manufacturer's recommendation, which is usually listed on a label in the driver's door area or the vehicle's manual. Also check for cracks, bulges, or other damage on the tire surface.
2. Ensure Wipers and Windshield Washer Fluid are Functioning Well
Wipers help keep the driver's view clear during rain. If the wiper rubber is brittle, cracked, or leaves water streaks on the glass, its ability to wipe water may decrease. As a result, visibility is impaired.
Check the condition of the wiper blades and replace them immediately if they are not functioning optimally. Also, ensure that the windshield washer fluid tank or washer is filled with fluid that meets the manufacturer's recommendations.
Washer fluid helps clean dust, dirt, and stains on the windshield. Avoid using household cleaning materials that may damage the wiper rubber or leave residues on the glass.
Read Also: What is the Difference Between Hybrid Wipers and Frameless Wipers?
3. Check the Braking System
Wet roads can extend braking distances because the tire grip on the road surface decreases. Therefore, the condition of the braking system needs to be ensured to remain optimal before the car is used during the rainy season.
Check the condition of the brake pads, discs or drums, and brake fluid according to vehicle maintenance procedures. Ensure there are no leaks and that the brake fluid replacement schedule follows the manufacturer's recommendations.
If the brake pedal feels different than usual, there are unusual sounds, or braking ability decreases, immediately have it checked at a workshop. Do not wait until the brakes lose their braking ability to make repairs.
In addition to ensuring the brakes function well, drivers need to reduce speed and maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front when the road is wet.
4. Check the Battery and Vehicle Electrical System
Before the rainy season, check the battery condition, battery terminals, cables, and electrical connectors. Ensure connections are secure and that there is no corrosion, frayed wires, or other damage.
Moisture and water can cause problems with damaged or poorly protected electrical components. Therefore, checking the condition of cables and connectors is an important step to reduce the risk of disruptions during travel.
Also, ensure that the charging system is working well. If the car is difficult to start or electrical warning indicators appear on the instrument panel, request further inspection at a workshop.
Avoid driving through puddles that risk causing water to enter the engine compartment or electrical components. If the vehicle experiences issues after passing through a puddle, prioritize safety and conduct an inspection before continuing the journey.
5. Check Door and Window Seals
The protective rubber or weatherstrip on doors and windows helps prevent water from entering the cabin. If the rubber has hardened, cracked, or detached, rainwater may seep into the interior of the car.
Check the condition of the rubber around the doors and windows. Ensure there are no damaged parts or that they are not fitted tightly. If the cabin often gets water inside, the inspection should also include drainage channels and other areas that could potentially be leak paths.
A damp cabin can cause unpleasant odors and increase the risk of mold growth. Therefore, immediately dry any wet interior parts and repair the source of leaks if found.
6. Ensure All Vehicle Lights are Functioning
Vehicle lights help the driver see road conditions while also making the car more visible to other road users. During heavy rain or overcast skies, this function becomes even more important.
Check the headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, and hazard lights. Ensure all are functioning well and are not covered in dirt. Also check fog lights if the vehicle is equipped with that feature.
Use lights according to weather conditions and vehicle usage instructions. Avoid using high beams when they can blind drivers from the opposite direction.
It is important to remember that hazard lights are not to be used while the car is still moving in normal rain conditions. Use them as intended, for example, to warn when the vehicle stops in an emergency.
7. Ensure AC and Defogger Features are Functioning
The AC system not only helps maintain cabin comfort but can also help reduce fog on the glass. During rain, the temperature and humidity difference between the inside and outside of
