What to check on your car before the rainy season, and how to stay safe when roads get wet.
Lebanon’s rainy season brings flash floods, oily roads, and reduced visibility. A few simple checks before the first rain can make a big difference in how safely you drive through it.
1. Tires: Your First Line of Defense
Tread depth matters most in wet conditions. Worn tires hydroplane easily because they can’t channel water away from the contact patch. Check your tread depth and replace tires that are near the wear indicators. Proper tire pressure also helps — underinflated tires are more prone to aquaplaning.
2. Wipers and Visibility
If your wipers leave streaks or skip across the windshield, replace them before the rain arrives. Check that your windshield washer fluid is full and that all exterior lights are working — you need to see and be seen. Consider applying a rain-repellent treatment from Molinol to the windshield for better visibility.
3. Brakes in Wet Conditions
Wet brakes take longer to respond. If your brake pads are near the end of their life, wet conditions amplify the problem. Have your brakes inspected before the season. After driving through deep puddles, tap the brakes gently a few times to dry them.