Most drivers know the golden rules for driving in rainy conditions – turn on your lights, slow down, keep a safe distance from the next car – but did you know that you should also take special care of your vehicle in wet weather? That’s because rain and wet driving conditions affect vehicle parts very differently from regular (dry) conditions.

Since the rainy season is upon us again, with hard-to-predict downpours happening almost every day, it’s high time to arm yourself with useful knowledge about caring for your vehicle in wet weather. Here is a simple checklist of five important tips to keep your ride in good shape this season.

1. Keep washing your car

It’s tempting to skip the car washing because it’s raining all the time anyway, but don’t give in! Rain actually doesn’t do any favours for your vehicle’s exterior – it leaves behind acidic deposits that eat away at the exposed parts of your car, especially the paint job and any metallic (e.g. chrome) finishes.

If you don’t have time for a full wash, a quick hose-down can help neutralise acidity after your car has been out in the rain.

2. Maintain your wheels for driving safety

During rainy season, it’s extra important for your vehicle’s tyres to be in tip-top condition. On wet road surfaces, vehicles are prone to aquaplaning. This can be due to different tread depths on the tyres, vehicle speed and differing road surfaces.

To minimise this risk, regularly check your tyres to ensure sufficient tread depth for a safe drive. If they are worn, especially below specifications (check your owners’ manual), get them replaced.

3. Up your windscreen wiper game

Your wipers are going to be working very hard this wet weather season, so check on the condition of your wiper blades and quantity of washer fluid frequently. Some vehicles have a warning light that would show up on the dashboard telling you it’s time to top up your washer fluid.

Listen out for jerking, squeaking and other noises, which indicate that the wiper blade might need replacing. It’s important to keep all wiper parts in order as visibility is crucial for your safety when it rains.

4. Check your head lights and taillights

Your head lights and taillights are more important than ever during rainy season – not just for illuminating the environment when it’s dark and stormy, but also to indicate your position clearly to other road users. For your driving safety, check that your head lights and taillights are turned on. Dipped beam lights ensure maximum visibility for you and other road users.

You might know of LED displays, screens and even traffic lights, but have you heard of LED head lights? In fact, LED technology is proven to improve driving safety through rapid response and stronger lighting.

In damp or humid weather, you may find your lights lenses fog over due to the temperature difference between the inside and outside of your vehicle. A simple fix is to switch the lights on, and the fog will clear shortly.

5. Weather-proof your vehicle with the right accessories

Investing in accessories to protect your vehicle’s interior from water, mud and dirt is also key to enjoying a more comfortable ride. Protective gear such as rubber floor mats, boot trays and pedal caps are especially useful during the rainy season