Aquaplaning occurs when the tires cannot drain the water fast enough, and the car floats on top of the water film. The result is dramatically reduced steering and braking. Reduce the risk with correct speed, good tires and conscious lane choice.
Signs of aquaplaning
| Sign | Description | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Suddenly light steering | Steering wheel feels light and response decreases | Release gas, hold straight course |
| Increasing RPM/ESP light | Wheels spin without grip | Don’t brake hard, wait until grip returns |
| Car floats in tracks | Pulls in wheel tracks filled with water | Move calmly to track with less water |
Read about how visibility is affected by rain in Lights and light types and about stopping distances in Reaction time and braking distance.
Speed and risk level in rain
| Situation | Recommended adjustment | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy rain on motorway | Reduce speed 20–30% | Tires cannot drain at high speed |
| Light rain after drought | Increase distance significantly | Oil and dirt make road extra slippery |
| Tracks in roadway | Choose track with least water | Less water film gives better grip |
See also Speed and distance.
Tires and technique
| Factor | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Tread depth | At least 3 mm for summer tires in rain |
| Tire pressure | Correct pressure improves drainage and stability. See Tire pressure and TPMS. |
| Dimension | Narrower tires can drain better with lots of water |
| Driving | Gentle steering movements, steady gas, avoid sudden braking |
For more maintenance, see Tires and maintenance.
What do you do during aquaplaning?
- Release gas calmly, hold steering wheel straight
- Don’t brake hard; wait until you feel grip again
- Adjust course and speed carefully after grip has returned
Checklist before rainy weather trip
- Check tire pattern and pressure
- Clean windshield and wipers
- Plan extra time and increase distance