Living in a hurricane-prone area means more than just boarding up windows and stocking up on supplies—it also means preparing your vehicle for the storm. When a hurricane is approaching, your car may become your only way out or your shelter on wheels. That’s why ensuring it’s in top condition is essential. At Armadillo Automotive and Powder Coating, we understand the importance of vehicle readiness, and we’ve put together a thorough checklist to help you stay safe and mobile when storms threaten.
Check Your Tires and Brakes
Before a hurricane hits, examine your tires for proper inflation, tread depth, and signs of wear. Bald or underinflated tires can lead to hydroplaning on rain-slick roads. If you’re unsure whether your tires are storm-ready, it’s best to have them inspected by professionals. Similarly, ensure your brakes are responsive and not squealing or grinding. Effective braking is critical during sudden stops or in heavy traffic—conditions that are common during storm evacuations.
Automotive services like brake inspections and tire replacements are available at Armadillo Automotive, where our technicians are trained to identify risks before they become emergencies. Don’t wait until you’re stuck in traffic during a downpour—make your appointment early.
Inspect Windshield Wipers and Fluids
Visibility can be severely compromised during hurricanes. Check your windshield wipers for any signs of cracking or skipping and replace them if necessary. Wiper blades should clean the glass in a single swipe without leaving streaks. Also, ensure your windshield washer fluid reservoir is full and that the spray nozzles are functioning.
It’s easy to overlook small details like these, but when a wall of rain hits your windshield, you’ll be glad you took the time. These small, inexpensive fixes are a vital part of your hurricane car preparation.
Test the Battery and Electrical System
Car batteries tend to die at the worst possible times. A weak battery might not survive the high humidity and temperature swings that hurricanes bring. If your battery is more than three years old, have it tested. Also, check that all lights—headlights, brake lights, hazard lights—are working correctly.
Electrical issues can make night driving and emergency signaling more dangerous. Armadillo Automotive and Powder Coating provides full battery and lighting inspections as part of our storm-readiness package, ensuring you’re not left in the dark when you need your vehicle the most.
Fill Up Your Gas Tank
It may sound simple, but it’s often overlooked: always keep your gas tank at least half full during hurricane season. In the days before a storm, gas stations often run out of fuel or close due to power outages. A full tank ensures you can evacuate without delay and also allows you to use your car’s air conditioning if you’re stuck in traffic or sheltering inside it.
Secure or Remove Exterior Accessories
Roof racks, light bars, and other custom accessories can become dangerous projectiles in high winds. If you can remove them easily, do so. If not, check that they’re tightly secured. This not only protects your vehicle but also the people and property around it.
At Armadillo Automotive, we also provide professional powder coating services that can add an extra layer of protection to your vehicle’s exterior accessories. Durable, corrosion-resistant coatings help your parts withstand harsh weather while maintaining their appearance and integrity.
Protect the Interior
Flooding is a major risk during hurricanes. Consider placing plastic sheeting or rubber floor mats in your car to protect the carpets. Move important documents, electronics, or valuables out of your vehicle, or store them in waterproof containers. If your area is prone to severe flooding, consider moving your car to higher ground or parking in a garage if possible.
Our team at Armadillo Automotive and Powder Coating can also recommend protective interior coatings and detailing services that help guard your upholstery and electronics against water damage.
Keep an Emergency Kit in Your Vehicle
No pre-storm checklist is complete without an emergency kit. Your car should be stocked with essentials such as:
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Jumper cables
- First-aid kit
- Phone charger (preferably solar-powered)
- Bottled water and non-perishable snacks
- Blanket and rain poncho
- Road flares or reflective triangles
It’s always better to be over-prepared than caught off-guard. Think of your vehicle not just as transportation, but as part of your hurricane safety plan.
Make Armadillo Automotive Part of Your Hurricane Prep
Hurricane season brings enough stress—your car shouldn’t be part of it. The experienced team at Armadillo Automotive and Powder Coating offers a full range of automotive services to get your vehicle ready for any storm. From battery tests to brake checks and everything in between, we’ve got you covered.
Don’t wait for the warning sirens—schedule your hurricane-readiness inspection today. Contact Armadillo Automotive to make sure your vehicle can weather the storm with you.