Protect Your Car From Severe Summer Weather

Severe summer weather can do costly damage to vehicles. Luckily, there are a variety of things you can do to protect your car from this kind of damage. By driving safely, making good choices while on the road and by maintaining your vehicle, you can avoid damaging your car this summer.

Check Your Tires

The depth of your tires' tread can impact your car's ability to drive safely on wet roads. Without good tires, your car could skid on wet roads, which could lead to accidents and auto body damage. To check your tires, stick a penny in your tire's tread, positioning the penny so the head of Abraham Lincoln is upside down. If any part of the penny is covered by the tread, your tires are safe. If the head of Abraham Lincoln is fully exposed, your tires need to be replaced. Contact an auto body shop, such as Custom Kar Tops, for help replacing your tires.

Stop Driving During Hail Storms

Driving during a hail storm can heighten the impact between the hail and your car. This can lead to damage and necessary auto body repair services. If possible, park under an overhang or in a garage during the storm. If you live in an area where hail is common, keep your garage clear so you'll have an indoor place to park your car during hail storms.

Know When to Get Off the Road

Low visibility, high winds and rising water are all problems that could lead to accidents. Get off the road if:

• There are flash flood warnings in your area.
• You're having difficulty keeping the car straight on the road.
• Your windshield wipers are on high and you still can't see well.
• There are tornado warnings in your area.

If you must stop your car before reaching your destination, avoid parking under trees and power lines, as these tall structures can become unstable in severe thunderstorms and high winds. Turn on your emergency blinkers if you're parked on the shoulder of the road.

Get Your Brakes Inspected

Wet brakes can be less effective than dry brakes, so you'll want your brakes to be fully functional and in perfect condition during thunderstorms and heavy rain. Get your brakes inspected by a professional mechanic this summer to ensure that your brakes are in good condition for driving during summer storms.

For more information about how you can protect your car from summer thunder storms and severe weather, contact a capable mechanic in your area. He or she should be able to answer your questions and give you tips and advice.

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