Preparing Your Car for the Stormy Season on the North Oregon Coast

Preparing Your Car for the Stormy Season on the North Oregon Coast

The stormy season on the North Oregon Coast is a force of nature. While the dramatic weather is beautiful to watch from indoors, it poses a serious challenge to your vehicle. High winds, heavy rainfall, and potential flooding can turn a simple drive between Astoria and Warrenton into a hazardous journey.

Getting your car ready now is not just about maintenance; it's about safety. This checklist will help you prepare your vehicle for the months ahead.

1. Give Your Tires the Deep-Water Test

Your tires are your first and most critical defense against hydroplaning. Deep tread is essential for channeling water away and maintaining grip on slick roads.

●     The Quarter Test: For wet weather, the penny test isn't strict enough. Use a quarter. Insert it into the tread groove with Washington's head upside down. If the top of his head is visible, your tread depth is likely insufficient for optimal wet-weather safety and it's time to start looking at new tires.

●     Check Pressure: Cold temperatures cause tire pressure to drop. Check and inflate your tires to the manufacturer's recommended pressure (found on the driver's door jamb) regularly throughout the season.

2. Ensure Your Wipers Can Keep Up

Streaky, chattering wiper blades won't clear your windshield during a downpour, creating a dangerous whiteout effect.

●     Inspect the Blades: Look for cracked rubber, bent frames, or any areas where the blade doesn't make full contact with the glass.

●     Perform a Test: Use your windshield washers. If the blades streak or skip, replace them immediately. Consider installing heavy-duty winter blades designed to handle heavy rain and resist ice buildup.

3. Confirm Your Lights Are Fully Operational

Visibility is a two-way street during a storm. You need to see the road, and other drivers need to see you.

●     Check Every Bulb: Test your headlights (high and low beams), fog lights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals. Fog lights are particularly useful for cutting through mist and heavy rain.

●     Clean the Lenses: Over time, plastic headlight lenses can become yellowed and hazy, drastically reducing their effectiveness. A professional restoration can make a significant difference in your light output.

4. Check Your Brakes for a Sure Stop

Wet roads dramatically increase stopping distances. A brake system that was adequate in the summer might feel dangerously weak in a storm.

●     Listen for Clues: Pay attention to any new noises when braking, such as grinding, squealing, or a metallic scraping sound.

●     Feel the Pedal: Note if the brake pedal feels soft, spongy, or vibrates when you apply pressure. These are all signs that your brake system needs a professional inspection.

5. Assemble a Storm Season Emergency Kit

Being prepared for the worst is a smart strategy for any coastal driver. Keep a kit in your trunk that includes:

●     A fully charged power bank for your phone

●     A flashlight with extra batteries

●     A first-aid kit

●     A reflective warning triangle or road flares

●     A blanket and extra warm clothing

●     Drinking water and non-perishable snacks

●     A basic toolkit

Trust PNW Automotive with Your Storm Season Prep

You don't have to face the stormy season unprepared. The team at PNW Automotive is here to ensure your vehicle is safe and reliable. We offer a comprehensive Storm Season Safety Check that includes a thorough inspection of your tires, brakes, lights, wipers, and battery.

We will identify any potential issues and provide honest, transparent recommendations to give you peace of mind when the weather turns.

Ready to face the coastal storms with confidence? Schedule your Storm Season Safety Check with our Astoria shop today. Book an appointment online or call us at (971) 704-5077 to ensure your car is ready for whatever the Pacific Northwest brings.