How to maintain your car after monsoon? Learn 5 Features of Car Care
The monsoon season in India is soon to be over. So, our cars need extra care after monsoon. Here are some important tips to follow to maintain your car after monsoon. Hence, our vehicles require special maintenance after the monsoon. The Indian monsoon poses some unique challenges to car owners across the country. These challenges include excess moisture, high humidity, poor roads and potholes, waterlogging, mud and dirt, etc. All these take a toll on the appearance of your vehicle. Moreover, it affects the performance of your vehicle throughout the season and even beyond.
Overall, monsoons are a double-edged sword for cars and their owners. It is important to take care of your car just before the monsoon and throughout the season. However, it is important to always check your car and take extra care after the monsoon. Here are some important tips to follow to maintain your car after monsoon:
Wash your car thoroughly
The first and most important step to take in caring for your car after monsoon is to wash it thoroughly. During monsoon, your car is exposed to muddy roads and heavy rains, leaving the exterior of your car covered in dirt, soot and pollutants. To remove these, a thorough cleaning is required. You can take your car to a gas station or repair shop for a wash, but you can also do it at home.
Use a pH-neutral car shampoo to gently remove dirt. Among other things, you will need a microfiber cloth, a wheel cleaning brush and a bucket filled with water. However, you may need a pressure washer to clean the chassis and wheel arches as these areas are most prone to accumulate dirt and debris. After washing your car thoroughly, you can apply wax to add an extra layer of protection to your paintwork.
Treat Rust Immediately
Rust is a nightmare for most car owners. And the risk increases during monsoon season. Water and air can affect the metal parts of your car, causing rust. If left untreated, this can damage vital metal parts of your vehicle. After the monsoon, check your car thoroughly for rust. If there is rust, it is best to take your car to a repair shop and get it repaired. Moreover, applying an anti-rust coating can protect the metal parts of your car's undercarriage from rust for a long time.
Tyre Inspection and Maintenance
Inspecting your tyres is an important part of regular car care, whatever the season. The monsoon season can result in increased tyre wear. Potholes, dirty water, mud and dirt damage the rubber in your tyres. Your driving habits and braking behaviour also affect your tyres. It is important to check the tyre tread depth and signs of uneven tyre wear. If there is uneven wear or reduced tread depth, it is best to replace your tyres.
Cleaning the interior of your car
Like the exterior, the cabin of your car is also exposed to the monsoons. Moisture and humidity can lead to the growth of mould inside the cabin. Dampness inside the cabin can also cause foul odours. These need to be treated immediately to avoid long term problems. Vacuum the seats, carpets and floor mats to remove dirt and moisture. Use a good interior cleaner to clean the dashboard, door panels and other hard surfaces. It is useful to have moisture absorbers and dehumidifiers on hand. Also, keep an air freshener in the cabin.
Check Electrical Components
The electrical components of your vehicle are the most exposed to monsoons. Electronics and electrical systems in modern cars are prone to water damage. Hence, after the monsoons, check the electrical components like the lighting system. If you find any errors, get them repaired. Also, check the battery connections for corrosion and get them repaired if present.