Spring in Middle Tennessee means rain — sometimes a lot of it. The Duck River basin around Columbia sees some of the most significant rainfall in the region during March and April, and wet roads demand more from your vehicle than dry ones. Now is the time to make sure your car is up to it.

Tires. Wet road performance is almost entirely about tread depth. Water needs to be channeled away from the contact patch between your tire and the road. When tread is worn, that water has nowhere to go — your tire rides on a film of water instead of gripping the surface. That’s hydroplaning, and it can happen at surprisingly low speeds on standing water.

Brakes. Even well-maintained brakes take longer to stop on wet roads. Worn brakes on wet roads are a serious safety concern. If you’ve been hearing any noise from your brakes or your stopping distance feels longer than it should, have them inspected before the rainy season is in full swing.

Wiper blades. If your wipers leave streaks, skip across the glass, or squeak loudly, they’re not doing their job. Visibility in a heavy rain is already limited — bad wipers make it dangerous. New wiper blades are inexpensive and make an immediate difference.

Headlights. In a heavy spring downpour, making sure other drivers can see you is just as important as you being able to see them. Walk around your car and verify all exterior lights are functioning.

Exhaust Plus Auto Center in Columbia can address all of these before the next big rain moves through. Come see us and drive confidently through whatever spring brings.