Honda Cars PH shares car care tips for the rainy season

MANILA: Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) shares essential car care and safety tips during the rainy season. For motorists, these points will ensure the pristine condition of their vehicle and give peace of mind come the heavy downpours.

A clean windshield, good wipers, and well-maintained headlights improve visibility

Visibility is important, especially when driving in a heavy rain. Aside from wading through floods and running the risk of hydroplaning, some accidents can be attributed to poor visibility. Once rainwater dries up, it leaves mineral deposits behind which will accumulate and then turn into dirt if not cleaned immediately.

Clean windows allow a better view of the surroundings. Investing in window detailing or having it cleaned on a regular basis avoid the build up of dirt and dust. 

Next to the windshield are wipers, responsible for keeping the windshield and rear windows free from water and other contaminants. Part of their maintenance is checking whether the blades are already due for replacement. Windshield wiper blades can last anywhere from six months to a year on average. Fresh wiper blades also allow a good view of the road even during challenging conditions. 

Well-maintained headlights achieve optimum visibility during heavy downpours. Like the car’s windshield, headlamps can get hazy or cloudy over time due to the sun’s ultraviolet rays and built-up grime.

To avoid this, it is highly advised to have headlamps regularly cleaned, not only for their sole appearance, but also to maintain their proper function. Make sure to check headlight bulbs for damage or if they need replacement. Always use the correct bulb specification for the headlights. 

Check the car’s battery

A car battery’s lifespan could possibly be shortened due to the corrosion caused by humidity and potential droplets splashing about during the rainy season. When the car has difficulty in starting or turning on its lights, it may be time to retire the battery. Replace immediately to prevent getting stranded in the middle of a heavy downpour.

Assess the quality of tires

Maximum gripping power during the rainy season is achieved by having well-maintained tires. This rewards the driver and its passengers with better safety, as having adequate tread better displaces water away, which should reduce the risk of hydroplaning.

Ensuring the tirer's proper inflation about every two weeks is ideal, because over or under-inflated tires can lead to reduced traction and early wear. The recommended tire pressure is listed near the driver’s door and on the owner’s manual. Also check the tire pressure of the spare, and replace unsuitable tires immediately. 

Always do a brake check

Brakes take longer to dry during rainy situations. Obtain brake services according to vehicle manufacturer specifications. Any squeaking or any grinding noises while braking is a sign that brake pads might need replacement.

Braking in the rain might not work as quickly as it would on a dry day, therefore, it is best to drive slower than usual and set a further distance in between cars. 

Wash and wax the car's body regularly

Applying wax also adds an additional layer of protection to a car's paint.  This can help keep watermarks from forming and also makes the car easier to clean after the rain. 

Honda offers the right insurance

The right vehicle insurance adds to a motorist's peace of mind.

Honda Sensing Insurance is available for Honda vehicles equipped with Sensing such as the all-new HR-V and Civic, CR-V, Accord, and the Civic Type R.

With AXA Philippines and BPI MS Insurance, the Honda Sensing Insurance Partnership Program offers improved preferential rates for comprehensive insurance to customers who will purchase models with Honda’s advanced safety technology.

The insurance partnership program provides preferential rates for as low as P2,119 per month (for 12 months with HR-V S model) and is offered until December 31, 2022. 

Photos from Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. 

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