Rainy Season Car Checklist for Jamaican Drivers

When the rains come, roads get slippery, potholes fill with water and visibility drops. A few checks before the rainy season can make your car much safer.

Tyres

Tread depth matters most on wet roads. Worn tyres can't clear water from under the tyre, which increases the risk of aquaplaning. Check tread depth, pressure and the age of your tyres.

Brakes

Have your brake pads, rotors and fluid checked. Wet roads increase stopping distances, so your brakes need to be at their best.

Wipers and washer fluid

Replace streaky or chattering wiper blades and top up the washer reservoir. Make sure the washer jets are clear and aimed properly.

Lights

Check headlights, tail lights, brake lights and indicators. Restore foggy headlights. Being seen in heavy rain is as important as seeing.

Electrical and battery

Damp conditions can expose weak batteries and corroded connections. A battery test now can prevent a no-start on a wet morning.

Door and boot seals

Check for leaks inside the car. Water entering the cabin can cause mould, bad smells and electrical problems.

AC and demisting

A working AC helps clear foggy windows quickly. Make sure it's blowing cold and that the cabin filter is clean.

Driving tips in heavy rain

• Slow down and increase your following distance

• Avoid driving through deep or flowing water, as it only takes a small amount to lose control or damage the engine

• If you must cross shallow water, go slowly and steadily

• Test your brakes gently after driving through water

After driving through floodwater

If water came above the bottom of the doors or you suspect it got into the engine air intake, don't try to restart a stalled engine. Have it inspected first.

Need help with this? RCJ Mobile Mechanics comes to you in Portmore, Spanish Town, Kingston, St. Andrew and across St. Catherine. Call or WhatsApp (658) 207-6565 or book a mechanic online.