Spring brings warmer temperatures, blooming flowers, and unfortunately, plenty of rain. Wet roads can make driving conditions more hazardous, increasing the risk of hydroplaning and reduced stopping power. If your brakes aren’t in top shape, stopping in wet conditions becomes more difficult and dangerous. Here’s how to ensure your brakes are ready for spring showers and keep your car safe on slippery roads.
1. Check Your Brake Pads for Wear
Your brake pads are the first line of defense when it comes to stopping safely. If they’re too thin or worn out, they won’t grip the rotors properly—leading to longer stopping distances, reduced control, and potential brake failure in wet conditions.
How to check your brake pads:
- Listen for squeaking or squealing noises when braking—this often means your brake pads are worn.
- If you hear a grinding sound, your pads may be completely worn down, exposing metal-to-metal contact.
- Have a technician inspect your brake pads—most should be replaced when they reach 3mm or less in thickness.
2. Inspect Your Brake Rotors for Damage
Brake rotors work alongside your brake pads to create friction and stop your vehicle. If your rotors are warped, grooved, or too thin, your braking performance in wet conditions will suffer.
Signs of bad rotors:
- A vibrating or pulsing brake pedal when stopping.
- A wobbling feeling in the steering wheel while braking.
- Scoring or grooves on the rotor surface (visible through your wheel spokes).
If you notice any of these signs, it may be time to resurface or replace your rotors.
3. Check Your Brake Fluid Level and Condition
Brake fluid is essential for transmitting force from the brake pedal to the brake components. Over time, brake fluid absorbs moisture, which can cause it to break down and reduce braking efficiency—especially in wet weather.
How to check brake fluid:
- Locate the brake fluid reservoir under the hood (refer to your owner’s manual for location).
- Ensure the fluid level is between the minimum and maximum marks.
- If the fluid looks dark, cloudy, or contaminated, it may need to be flushed and replaced.
Brake fluid should be replaced every 2–3 years or as recommended by your vehicle manufacturer.
4. Test Your Brake Responsiveness
Even if your brakes look fine, you should test their responsiveness before spring showers hit. Find a safe, dry area and press the brake pedal firmly. If the pedal feels soft, spongy, or goes too far down, you may have:
- Air in the brake lines (requiring a brake bleed).
- Worn brake pads or rotors.
- A leak in the braking system.
If your brakes don’t feel as strong as they should, get them checked before driving in heavy rain.
5. Inspect Your Tires for Proper Tread Depth
Your tires and brakes work together to keep you safe in wet conditions. If your tires have worn-out tread, they won’t grip the road properly, increasing the chances of hydroplaning—no matter how good your brakes are.
How to check tire tread depth:
- Use the penny test—insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head facing down. If you can see the top of his head, your tread is too low, and it’s time to replace your tires.
- Tires should have at least 4/32” of tread for safe wet-weather driving.
6. Be Aware of ABS Functionality
Most modern vehicles have an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) to prevent wheel lock-up in wet conditions. If your ABS warning light is on, your system may not be functioning correctly, which could make braking in the rain more dangerous.
What to do:
- If the ABS light is on, have a professional scan for diagnostic trouble codes.
- Make sure the ABS engages properly when braking on slick surfaces.
7. Schedule a Spring Brake Inspection
The best way to stay ahead of brake problems before spring showers arrive is to schedule a professional brake inspection. A technician can check:
- Brake pad and rotor thickness.
- Brake fluid condition and levels.
- ABS functionality.
- Any leaks or worn components.
Final Thoughts
Spring showers can make roads slick and increase stopping distances, so having reliable brakes is critical for your safety. By checking your brake pads, rotors, fluid, tires, and ABS, you can ensure your car is ready to handle wet conditions. If you notice brake noises, vibrations, or weak stopping power, don’t wait—schedule a brake inspection with a trusted auto repair shop before hitting the road this spring.