Is your car prepped and ready to drive in the rain?

Spring has sprung, and April showers bring May flowers, and all that - basically, rain is coming to our state. Spring brings the potential of plenty of wet weather, and you need to ensure that your car is ready to drive in the rain before you try to tackle your daily commute! Luckily, Toyota of N Charlotte is here to help (as always). Our service techs have made a quick list of car care appointments you should set now to ensure your ride is ready to drive in the rain all season long. 

Is your car ready to drive in the rain? 

Appointment #1: Tires
Your tires are what comes between your car and the road; caring for them on a routine basis is essential. This especially rings true when you're getting ready to drive in the rain! Your tires need to have the proper amount of traction to be able to grip the road, especially when conditions are slippery. Our Charlotte auto service techs can inspect your tread and let you know if you're in need of new tires. You should also stay on top of car maintenance like tire rotations, wheel balancing, and alignments to ensure top performance when driving in wet weather. And on top of all that, make sure your tires are inflated to the proper PSI! Tires that are over- or under-inflated can't do their job. 

Appointment #2: Brakes 
When the roads are wet, it cuts down on the amount of time and distance you have to brake as you may find yourself sliding a little if you hit the brakes too hard. You'll need to brake sooner when you drive in the rain to come to a safe stop. That's why it's so essential to ensure that your brakes are in excellent working order every time you hit the road. Charlotte brake service is a great way to have your braking system inspected and maintained so you're ready for anything, even unexpected stops to avoid collisions. 

Appointment #3: Wipers 
Your windshield wipers are crucial to a clear field of vision when you drive in the rain. They should clear your windshield of water in one swipe - if they're smearing water around or leaving large streaks, the rubber is likely damaged and you need a new set. Additionally, they shouldn't make squealing or thudding noises when going across the glass; that's another sign that they're worn out and you should visit our Charlotte Toyota parts department to have them replaced. 

Appointment #4: Headlights 
When you drive in the rain, you should turn your headlights on. It's less about you seeing better and more about other drivers being able to see you. That's why it's important to ensure that your headlights, taillights, turn signals, and hazard lights are all shining bright when you're heading into wet weather - you want other drivers to be able to see your movements so you can avoid an accident. Our Charlotte car care techs can inspect all of them, replace burnt out bulbs, and even perform headlight restoration if you need it. Also, just an FYI - you should never drive with your hazard lights on. They're only for use if you're pulled over to the side of the road. 

Schedule Charlotte auto service today

Need to schedule car care to get ready to drive in the rain? Toyota of N Charlotte is at your service. Call us - we're open as an essential business at (704) 659-2025 seven days a week. You can also stop by to chat with our techs or get those new wiper blades at 13429 Statesville Road, just off I-77 at exit 23 in Huntersville.