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How to Prepare for the Rainy Season in Spain
Most drivers check their tyres before it rains, but ignore their windscreen wipers until they stop working. This common mistake can reduce visibility at a critical moment when you need it most, especially on Spanish roads where rainfall can be intense and sudden.
When getting your car ready for the rainy season, it’s essential to make sure your windscreen wipers are in good condition to guarantee maximum visibility. Worn wipers leave streaks on the glass, create uncleared areas, and can fail just when you need them most. Automotive maintenance experts recommend checking these components before the first autumn rains arrive, as the rubber deteriorates over time even without use, due to sun exposure and the extreme temperatures typical of the Spanish climate.
Why wipers are your first line of defence
"Windscreen wipers are important components of a vehicle’s passive safety system. If they’re worn out, driving becomes dangerous, especially in rain or snow. Therefore, every vehicle owner should monitor their condition and replace these components in good time," according to AUTODOC.
Signs of wear are easy to spot: noises as they pass over the glass, lines left uncleared, or visibly cracked rubber. On popular models like the Peugeot 307, wipers usually last between six months and a year, depending on use and weather conditions. The brand RIDEX offers high-quality windscreen wipers that are durable and efficient, making them an excellent choice for vehicles like the Peugeot 307.
What few drivers know about rain
Your risk of having an accident jumps by 70% when it rains. But here’s the surprising part: it’s not slippery asphalt that causes most of these accidents, but poor visibility.
Conductores Españoles’ behaviour:
The numbers reveal a worrying reality: while the risk of an accident increases by 70% during rain, three out of four drivers admit to driving with worn wipers. This explosive combination explains why accidents rise by 7.4% on rainy days, with notable differences between provinces. In Almería, accidents soar by up to 18%, while in Navarra or Cantabria they barely reach 3%.
The real problem lies with the wipers. Whether you drive a Peugeot 307 or any other model, uneven clearing of water drastically reduces your visibility. Imagine driving with dirty glasses during a storm: that’s how millions of drivers travel every autumn.
Start by checking your windscreen wipers, the component that most affects your visibility according to road safety studies. Next, fill the reservoir with quality windscreen washer fluid that removes grease and insect remains—never use just water. Then inspect your tyres: you need enough tread to clear water and avoid dreaded aquaplaning. Test your brakes in a quiet area to spot any problems before facing truly wet roads. Finish by checking for possible leaks in doors and windows that could cause electrical issues or damage the interior.
Finish preparing your vehicle
Tyres deserve special attention. The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6 millimetres, but experts recommend changing them from 3 millimetres. Check their condition with a euro coin: if the golden edge is fully visible, it’s time to replace them.
The braking system needs checking because stopping distances increase considerably in the rain. Strange noises or vibrations in the pedal are signs you need a professional inspection.
Windscreen washer fluid also matters. Don’t use plain water, as it doesn’t remove grease or insects. A quality fluid improves cleaning and always keep the reservoir full.
Attention to the Peugeot 307
The Peugeot 307 is one of the most popular models in Spain, and owners should pay attention to the specific wiper sizes. Generally, you need 600 mm for the driver’s side and 400 mm for the passenger side, though these sizes may vary depending on the year of manufacture. Always check your vehicle’s manual before buying replacements.
When it’s time to replace worn wipers, products like those from RIDEX offer good value for money and proven durability. AUTODOC makes it easy to find the specific Peugeot 307 windscreen wipers for your version, ensuring you get exactly what you need with no compatibility errors.
Don’t wait for the first rains to catch you off guard. A preventive check of about 30 minutes can save you serious trouble and guarantee your safety on the road. Remember, clear visibility is just as important as any other safety system in your vehicle.
Sources: Centro de Estudios Ponle Freno-AXA, Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT), AUTODOC.