Tyres: Your First Line of Defence
Your tyres are the only part of the car in contact with the road, a fact that becomes critical on wet, winding hill roads. Worn tyres are a primary cause of hydroplaning, where a layer of water builds up and causes a complete loss of control. Before you
leave, check that the tread depth on all tyres is well above the minimum recommendation; for monsoon safety, at least 3mm is advisable. An easy way to check is to insert a one-rupee coin into the groove; if the coin's edge is fully visible, your tyres are likely too worn for a safe trip. Also, inspect the tyre pressure when the tyres are cold, including the spare. Incorrect pressure affects grip, braking, and handling, all of which are put to the test on steep, rainy inclines.
Brakes: The Ultimate Safety Net
Driving downhill in the ghats puts immense strain on your braking system. Brakes that feel fine in the city might falter during long descents. Get your brake pads, lines, and fluid checked by a professional. If you hear any squealing noises or feel vibrations when braking, get them inspected immediately. Brake fluid can absorb moisture from the humid air, reducing its effectiveness precisely when you need it most. If it hasn't been changed in two years, it's time for a flush and replacement. After driving through a waterlogged patch, it's a good practice to gently tap the brakes a few times to help dry them out and restore normal performance.
Wipers and Windshield: See and Be Seen
Visibility can drop to near-zero in seconds during a heavy downpour in the hills. Wiper blades often crack and harden during the intense Indian summer, leaving them ineffective. If your wipers leave streaks or skip across the glass, replace them. It’s an inexpensive fix that makes a massive difference in safety. Top up your windshield washer fluid, using a proper cleaning solution instead of just water, as it helps clear oily grime sprayed up by other vehicles. Also, run your air conditioner to defog the windshield from the inside.
Lights and Electricals: Cut Through the Gloom
In the fog and heavy rain common to hill drives, your car's lights are crucial for both seeing and being seen. Do a complete walk-around of your car and check that all lights are working: headlights (low and high beam), taillights, brake lights, and indicators. Clean the light covers to ensure maximum brightness. It is a good practice to drive with your low-beam headlights on during rain, even in the daytime, to increase your visibility to oncoming traffic. Monsoon humidity can also strain an older battery, so check for corrosion on the terminals and ensure connections are tight.
The Monsoon Emergency Kit
A breakdown is frustrating anywhere, but being stranded on a remote mountain road in the rain can be a nightmare. Your standard emergency kit needs a few monsoon-specific upgrades. Pack a powerful, waterproof flashlight with extra batteries, a tow rope, and jumper cables. A tyre inflator kit can be a lifesaver. Also include a well-stocked first-aid kit, non-perishable snacks like power bars, and bottled water in case you get stranded due to a landslide or waterlogging. An umbrella, a change of clothes, and a towel will also be invaluable if you need to step out in the rain.
