Rainy season

Driving and parking through the long rains

Heavy rain brings more customers, but also flooded roads, mud and damp. These steps protect your vehicle and your income through the wet months.

Written by the MRL service team · Updated [Date]
The short answer

Avoid driving through standing water, test your brakes after any deep puddle, keep electrics and the air intake dry, and wash off mud regularly to slow rust. Get wipers, lights and tyres checked before the rains start.

Before the rains

✓Replace worn wiper blades
✓Check all lights work, including brake lights and indicators
✓Check tyres have good tread for wet roads
✓Ask your branch to check the roof, side curtains and seals for leaks

Standing water

Water you cannot see the bottom of can hide potholes, and water drawn into the engine air intake can cause serious damage. If you have to cross, go slowly and steadily, and turn back if it looks deep.

After driving through water, brake gently a few times to dry the brakes before you need them.

Worth knowing. On an electric Baxy Lion, never charge while the vehicle or socket is standing in water.

Mud, damp and rust

Wash underneath

Mud holds moisture against the chassis and speeds up rust.

Dry the seats

Damp seats and floors grow mould and wear faster.

Check electrics

Flickering lights or a weak horn often mean water in a connector.

Park on high ground

Avoid low spots that flood overnight.

After the season

Once the rains are over, a service will catch any water damage, worn brakes or rust before they get worse.

Book a post-rains check at your nearest branch.Book a service ›

Questions owners ask us

My engine stalled in water. Should I restart it?

No. Restarting can draw more water in. Push it clear and call us for advice.

Are the side curtains waterproof?

They keep most rain out. Check the fixings and seams before the rains and replace any that are torn.

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