When those late-summer storms roll in and the rain pours down, the roads around here can quickly become dangerous. One of the biggest reasons is the way rain affects your tires and how your car grips the road. At Car Care Clinic, we want you to stay safe, so here’s what you need to know about why tire condition is especially important during these wet months.
Hydroplaning is when your tires lose contact with the road surface because water builds up between your tires and the pavement. When this happens, your car can skid or slide, making it hard to control. Even the best drivers can find themselves in trouble if their tires are not up to the challenge.
There are four main things that increase your risk of hydroplaning:
- Worn Tread: Tread is the part of the tire that touches the road and pushes water out from under the tire. When tread gets low, your tires can’t move water away fast enough, and you’re more likely to slide.
- Improper Tire Pressure: Tires that are too low or too high on air don’t grip the road as well, especially in the rain.
- Excessive Speed: The faster you go, the harder it is for your tires to channel water away.
- Standing Water: Hitting puddles or wet spots at speed can make your tires lose their grip instantly.
Even if your tires look OK on a dry day, they might not be safe when it rains. Here’s a quick way to check your tread: Take a penny and stick it upside down (with Lincoln’s head facing down) into the grooves of your tire. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, your tread is too worn and it’s time for new tires. Tires with worn tread can seem fine on dry pavement, but the second a heavy rain hits, they lose their grip, and your risk for hydroplaning goes way up.
Tips for Safer Driving in Heavy Rain
- Slow down when roads are wet, especially if you see standing water.
- Make sure your tires are properly inflated. Check them at least once a month.
- Replace wiper blades so you can see clearly.
- Avoid sudden turns or hard braking, which can make you lose traction.
- Leave extra space between you and the car ahead.
Keeping your tires in shape is more than just a safety issue; it helps them last longer and saves you money in the long run. Rotating your tires every 5000 to 7000 miles helps them wear evenly, which means better traction and longer life. Keeping your tires at the right pressure helps your car handle better and prevents uneven wear. Misaligned wheels cause uneven tire wear and poor handling, especially in wet weather. Also, regular checks catch problems before they become safety risks.
Don’t wait until you’re caught in a storm to find out your tires aren’t up for the job. Visit any Car Care Clinic location for a complimentary tire inspection before the next Mississippi downpour. Our ASE-certified technicians are always happy to answer your questions and help you drive safer, no matter the weather.
