Hurricane Season until November 30th

Severe weather is expected all this week in the Greater Houston area so now is the time to check your vehicle before the rainstorms hit.

Here is a list of things to check on your car prior to getting out in the rain—all of these you can do yourself! No need to go to an auto repair shop. Of course my shop, Professional Auto Care in SW Houston—like most other auto care establishments—always checks these items free of charge.

DIY Quick Thunderstorms Car Check

1. Tires

• Tread depth

• Try the penny test.

• Age

• Are your tires older than 7 years old

1. Lights.

• Operation

• Are all the lights working?

• Lens condition

• Inspect for front headlamp cloudiness, condensation and cracks allowing water to enter what should be the sealed assembly. –all which are reasons where you could potentially fail the state inspection in Texas.

1. Wipers

• Effectiveness –Are they wiping the glass effectively? –Don’t forget the back glass!

You never know if you will come across an impassable road. In this scenario find higher ground. Turn Around. Don't Drown. Driving through high water not only puts your car at risk, but also your life and the lives of the emergency responders.

Things to have with you in your vehicle.

• Cell phone charger

• Water

• Some bars/snacks

• Rain coat/umbrella in the car

• Blanket

Defensive Rain Driving

What do you do if you start to hydroplane? Being in the scary situation where you feel you have lost control of where the car is going is more than frightening. The first time it ever happens, saying you are scared is an understatement—especially if you’re on the southwest freeway on a packed freeway.

Some tips for maneuvering this high adrenaline situation:

• Do not brake or turn suddenly

• Ease your foot off the gas until the vehicle slows and you can feel traction on the road again

• Turn your steering wheel in the direction of the skid. As you recover control, gently straighten the wheels.