AIR PRESSURE AND WET PERFORMANCE
Before we get into our tips for driving in wet weather, we’ve got some tire maintenance tips that will give you the best chance of peak performance on rain-soaked streets.
Up first is, unsurprisingly, tire air pressure!
Tire air pressure has a big impact on performance, especially in rain. To make sure your tires perform at their best in wet weather (or any weather for that matter), we recommend checking your air pressure once a month and before any long trips. For the best performance, you should set your tires to the manufacturer’s recommended air pressure, which you can typically find on the door jamb or in the vehicle owner’s manual.
TREAD DEPTH AND WET ROADS
Next on our list of tips for wet weather driving, we’re talking tread depth.
Particularly in wet weather, having sufficient tread depth allows your tires to perform their best. Check your tires' tread depth while you are checking your air pressure about once a month and before long trips. (Pro tip: go for two birds with one stone and knock out your tread depth and air pressure checks in one go!)
Tires typically begin seeing a noticeable decline in wet weather traction below 6/32nds of tread depth.
At America's Tire, we recommend replacing tires below 4/32nds of tread. For your safety, tires worn to 2/32’’ of tread are considered legally worn, and we can’t service them.
If your tires are low enough on tread that grip in wet weather is a concern, don't sweat it. We can help you find the best tires for your needs with Treadwell, our tire buying guide!
WINDSHIELD WIPER BLADES
Another important vehicle maintenance tip before driving in the rain? Maintaining your windshield wiper blades! Staying safe while driving in the rain is easiest when you can keep a clear eye on the road. That starts and stops with your windshield wipers, which help clear away rain, sleet and snow.
Before the rainy season starts, make sure your wiper blades are in good working order. When wiper blades squeak, chatter, skip, smear or streak, or generally reduce driving visibility, it's time to replace them. We typically recommend replacing your wiper blades every 6 months.
If you need new windshield wiper blades, we've got you covered. Not only can you get windshield wiper blades at our legendary low prices, but we'll install them for free during your tire or wheel service. Save time, save money and stay safe on the roads during those rainstorms!
TIPS FOR DRIVING IN THE RAIN
Now, when it comes to driving in the rain, it's very important to adapt your driving style to the challenges of water-logged streets. Why? Because when you take to the roads during a rainstorm, your risk of hydroplaning increases quite a bit. Obviously, it's best to avoid that at all costs. That's why we put together these driving tips below to help you stay safe on those wet streets:
Reduce your speed: During rainy or wet weather, we recommend driving under the speed limit, using slow, steady maneuvers and avoiding sudden stops, starts or turns.
Increase the distance between you and others: More driving distance between you and the vehicle ahead of you can give you the space you need to avoid collisions. If you need to make an evasive maneuver, the extra distance can make all the difference.
Avoid standing water: When driving on wet roads, avoid standing water at all costs, it greatly increases your risk of hydroplaning. If you can't avoid standing water, slow down heavily to avoid hydroplaning.
Use your headlights: Rain obstructs your view, not to mention the view of other drivers. Using the headlights helps you see and also helps others see you; in fact, some state laws require using your headlights during rainstorms. If you're using your windshield wipers, turn on your headlights. Don't use your high beams, as they can reduce sight.
Don't use cruise control: Though cruise control can be effective to maintain a steady speed in favorable conditions, using it in wet weather can lead to hydroplaning and potential loss of control.
Avoid driving in severe weather: If the wet weather becomes severe, your best bet is to avoid travel if possible.
Need new tires before the next rainstorm? Be sure to buy and book online to get a shorter wait time in-store!
If you have any questions about conquering those summer driving challenges, stop by your nearest store or schedule an appointment, and we'll get you taken care of!