Spring is a beautiful time of year, but it also brings heavy rain and wet roads. If your car isn’t ready for the season, you could be in danger when driving in our Florida spring showers. The two most important parts of your car to check before hitting the road are your tires and windshield wipers. Both play a big role in keeping you safe when the roads are slick, and visibility is low. 

In this blog, we’ll cover why tire and wiper maintenance is important, how to check them, and what to do if they need to be replaced. By following these simple steps, you can keep yourself and others on the road safe this spring! 

Why Are Tires and Wipers Important for Spring Driving? 

Spring showers can make roads slippery, and poor visibility makes driving even more dangerous. Your tires and windshield wipers work together to help you stay in control. 

• Tires grip the road and help prevent sliding when roads are wet. 
• Windshield wipers clear rain from your windshield, helping you see better in bad weather. 

If either of these parts are not working well, your chances of an accident increase. That’s why it’s important to check them before spring storms arrive.

How to Check Your Tires for Safety 

Your tires are your car’s connection to the road. Good tires help you stop quickly and keep control on wet pavement. Here’s how to make sure your tires are in good shape. 

1. Check Your Tire Tread 

Tire tread is the pattern of grooves on your tires. These grooves push water away so your tires can grip the road. If your tread is too low, your tires can’t handle wet conditions well. 

How to check your tread: 

• Use the penny test: Take a penny and place it in a groove of your tire with Lincoln’s head pointing down. If you can see the top of his head, your tread is too low, and you need new tires. 
• Look for tread wear indicators: Most tires have small bars in the grooves. If these bars are even with the tread, it’s time to replace your tires. 

2. Check Tire Pressure 

Tires that aren’t filled properly can cause problems on the road. Low pressure makes it harder to stop and turn, while too much air can reduce traction. 

How to check your tire pressure: 

• Find your car’s recommended tire pressure in the owner’s manual or on the sticker inside the driver’s door. 
• Use a tire pressure gauge to check the pressure. 
• If the pressure is too low or too high, adjust it using an air pump at a gas station. 

3. Look for Damage 

Spring potholes and rough winter roads can damage your tires. Check for: 

• Cracks or bulges on the sides 
• Nails, glass, or sharp objects stuck in the tire 
• Uneven wear (this could mean your tires are out of alignment) 

If you see any of these problems, visit a professional for an inspection or replacement. 

How to Check Your Windshield Wipers for Safety 

Windshield wipers help you see in the rain, but they wear out over time. If your wipers aren’t working well, they won’t clear water properly, making it harder to see. 

1. Test Your Wipers 

Turn on your wipers and spray washer fluid. Watch for these signs: 

• Streaking – Leaves lines of water on the glass 
• Skipping – Jumps across the windshield instead of moving smoothly 
• Squeaking – Makes loud noises when moving 

If you notice any of these, it’s time to replace your wipers. 

2. Inspect the Wiper Blades 

Check the rubber on your wiper blades. Look for: 

• Cracks or splits 
• Bent or broken frames 
• Loose rubber that doesn’t touch the glass 

If you see any of these problems, replace your wipers before the next rainstorm. 

3. Check Washer Fluid Levels 

Washer fluid helps your wipers clean your windshield. To check it: 

• Open the hood and find the washer fluid reservoir. 
• Look at the fluid level. If it’s low, fill it with windshield washer fluid (not water, which can freeze or leave streaks). 

When to Replace Your Tires and Wipers 

Sometimes, checking your tires and wipers isn’t enough – they need to be replaced. Here’s when to get new ones: 

Replace Your Tires If: 

• The tread is too low (fails the penny test) 
• You see cracks, bulges, or punctures 
• Your car feels like it’s slipping on wet roads 

Replace Your Wipers If: 

• They leave streaks, skip, or squeak 
• The rubber is cracked or damaged 
• They don’t fully clear the windshield 

Extra Spring Safety Tips 

Besides checking your tires and wipers, here are more ways to stay safe in spring weather: 

• Drive slower in the rain to avoid hydroplaning. 
• Keep a safe distance from other cars – it takes longer to stop on wet roads. 
• Turn on your headlights during rain, even in the daytime. 
• Avoid large puddles – they can hide potholes and cause hydroplaning. 
• Check your brakes to make sure they’re in good condition. 

Final Thoughts 

Spring showers bring slippery roads, but with the right preparation, you can stay safe. Checking your tires and windshield wipers is easy and can prevent dangerous situations. If you’re unsure about your car’s condition, Premier Auto Care in Titusville, FL is here to help! 

We offer tire inspections, wiper replacements, and full vehicle safety checks. Stop by today to make sure your car is ready for the season. Drive safe and enjoy the spring!