The rainy season always brings new challenges for car owners. Roads become slippery, visibility is limited, and the risk of vehicle problems during travel increases. If you are not well prepared, your driving comfort and safety could be compromised.

Therefore, before taking your car out in the rain, it's a good idea to check the following important components first.

1. Car Tires

Tires are like the "shoes" of a car. If they are worn out, the risk of skidding on wet roads increases, and aquaplaning can even occur. Make sure the tire tread depth is still okay, at least 1.6 mm. Don’t forget to check the air pressure according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. If possible, choose tires that are specifically designed with a special compound for better grip on slippery roads.

2. Windshield Wipers and Washer Fluid

Clear visibility is key to safety. Wipers that are brittle or leave streaks on the windshield must be replaced. Additionally, fill the washer tank with special windshield cleaner fluid, not just regular tap water. This will keep your windshield clean even in heavy rain or when splashed with mud.

3. Braking System

When the asphalt is wet, the braking distance automatically increases. This means that the braking system must be in top condition. Check the brake pads to make sure they are not worn out. Also pay attention to the brake fluid; if it is past its service schedule, replace it immediately. Don't wait until the brakes feel spongy before panicking.

4. Car Electrical System

Rain causes high humidity, which can interfere with the electrical system. Check the cables, sockets, and battery. Exposed cables or loose sockets can cause short circuits. Corroded battery terminals can also disrupt the flow of electricity. It's simple, but the effect can cause the car to break down at the wrong time.

5. Door and Window Seals

Door or window rubber seals are often overlooked, even though they serve a vital function. If they are cracked or loose, rainwater can enter the cabin. This can result in a damp interior, unpleasant odors, and even mold growth.

6. Radiator

Cold weather does not mean the radiator can take a break. Overheating can still occur if the cooling system is not maintained. Check for radiator leaks and ensure there is always enough coolant. Don't let your engine stall just because the radiator is empty.

7. Car Lights

Rain plus nighttime = minimal visibility. Ensure all car lights are working optimally, including headlights, fog lights, and taillights. Bright lights not only make the road clearer but also make your car more visible to other drivers.

Conclusion

Maintaining your car during the rainy season is all about safety first. By ensuring your tires, brakes, wipers, lights, and other components are in top condition, you can drive more safely and comfortably even when the weather is unfavorable. 

Indonesia 🇮🇩

Komponen Mobil yang Wajib Dicek Saat Musim Hujan

Musim hujan selalu datang dengan tantangan baru buat para pemilik mobil. Jalanan jadi licin, jarak pandang terbatas, sampai risiko kendaraan bermasalah di tengah perjalanan pun meningkat. Kalau nggak dipersiapkan dengan baik, kenyamanan dan keselamatan berkendara bisa terancam.

Makanya, sebelum mobil kamu diajak hujan-hujanan, ada baiknya cek dulu beberapa komponen penting berikut ini.

1. Ban Mobil

Ban itu ibarat “sepatu” mobil. Kalau kondisinya sudah aus, risiko tergelincir di jalan basah makin tinggi, bahkan bisa terjadi aquaplaning. Pastikan kedalaman alur ban masih oke, minimal 1,6 mm. Jangan lupa cek tekanan angin sesuai rekomendasi pabrikan. Kalau bisa, pilih ban yang memang dirancang dengan compound khusus untuk grip lebih baik di jalan licin.

2. Wiper dan Cairan Washer

Visibilitas jelas adalah kunci keselamatan. Wiper yang sudah getas atau meninggalkan garis di kaca wajib diganti. Selain itu, isi penuh tangki washer dengan cairan khusus pembersih kaca, jangan cuma air keran biasa. Jadi, kaca depan tetap bersih meski hujan deras atau kena cipratan lumpur.

3. Sistem Rem

Saat aspal basah, jarak pengereman otomatis lebih panjang. Itu artinya, sistem rem harus dalam kondisi prima. Cek kampas rem, pastikan nggak tipis. Perhatikan juga minyak rem, kalau sudah lewat jadwal servis, segera ganti. Jangan tunggu rem terasa blong dulu baru panik.

4. Kelistrikan Mobil

Hujan bikin kelembapan tinggi, dan ini bisa ganggu sistem kelistrikan. Periksa kabel, soket, dan aki. Kabel yang terkelupas atau soket longgar bisa memicu korsleting. Terminal aki yang berkarat juga bisa bikin aliran listrik nggak lancar. Sederhana, tapi efeknya bisa bikin mobil mogok di saat yang nggak tepat.

5. Seal Pintu dan Kaca

Seal karet pintu atau kaca sering disepelekan, padahal fungsinya vital. Kalau sudah retak atau longgar, air hujan bisa masuk kabin. Akibatnya interior lembap, berbau nggak enak, bahkan bisa ditumbuhi jamur.

6. Radiator

Cuaca dingin bukan berarti radiator bisa santai. Overheating tetap bisa terjadi kalau sistem pendingin nggak terawat. Cek kebocoran radiator, pastikan cairan pendingin selalu cukup. Jangan sampai mesin ngadat cuma gara-gara radiator kosong.

7. Lampu Mobil

Hujan plus malam hari = jarak pandang minim. Pastikan semua lampu mobil berfungsi maksimal, baik lampu utama, lampu kabut, hingga lampu belakang. Lampu yang terang bukan cuma bikin jalan lebih jelas, tapi juga bikin mobil kamu lebih mudah terlihat pengendara lain.

Kesimpulan

Merawat mobil di musim hujan itu soal safety first. Dengan memastikan ban, rem, wiper, lampu, dan komponen lain tetap prima, kamu bisa berkendara lebih aman dan nyaman meski cuaca lagi nggak bersahabat.