Rain Weather Proof Your Vehicle

When it comes to driving in rain, there is nothing more important than having a good set of wiper blades. Windshield wiper blades are not meant to last forever. Most experts believe they should be changed at least twice a year or every 6,000 miles. But studies have shown that the average motorist changes his or her wiper blades just once every two or three years. As a result, many drivers are using blades that are cracked or frayed and not able to properly clear rain from the windshield. 

The rubber blade portion of the wiper is replaceable -- either as a rubber refill or a complete blade assembly -- and has a limited lifespan of just a few years. Leading wiper blade manufacturers like ANCO, Bosch and Trico, sell a range of blades for different weather conditions. Use their handy replacement chart to find the right one for your passenger car. Most consumers can replace the rubber refill or put on a new wiper blade assembly themselves by carefully following the directions on the package.

Goodyear engineers invented the original Aquatred tire over 10 years ago after listening to consumers who said they wanted longer tread wear and improved traction on rain-slick roads. Goodyear is now on its third version of the tire that helped define the "rain tire" category. Aquatreds range in price from $72 to $1,100, depending on tire size. Almost all tire manufacturers have at least one tire with wide center grooves and a tread pattern designed to remove water efficiently. 

Last year I participated in a tire demonstration sponsored by Bridgestone/Firestone. One test had us slamming on the brakes at nearly 55 mph in a wet traction zone. From that experience I learned that having good tires that can stop quickly on rain slick roads is essential and potentially life-saving.

When looking for rain tires, there are a couple of important things to consider: wet-traction handling and wet-braking distance. Take time to compare results among the tire manufacturers to see how they stack up. You can find additional tire care and consumer safety information by visiting the Department of Transportation (www.dot.gov) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (www.nhtsa.dot.gov). 

A good rain repellant will help give you a clear view of the road ahead. It is sprayed on your windshield before driving, providing an invisible film to repel rain from your window. The most popular brand is Rain-X, but other good alternatives are Amsoil Rain Clear Windshield Protectant and Aquapel Glass Treatment from Automotive International. 

Another rain accessory you might consider buying is Weather Flectors. Made of lightly tinted cast acrylic, the product installs inside the top of the window channel using a precision-machined, micro-thin mounting flange. On rainy days you can partially open your window without getting soaked, allowing an added bit of ventilation to remove stale or smoky air. Expect to spend about $80. 

- Courtesy of the Weather Channel