How to Prepare Your Vehicle for a Hurricane
Hurricanes can bring strong winds, heavy rain, flooding, and power outages. If you live in an area that can be affected by hurricanes, your vehicle should be part of your emergency plan.
A little preparation can help you stay safe and avoid getting stuck with a car that will not start when you need it most.
At Jim Brangham Auto Repair, we help drivers keep their vehicles ready for the road. Here are some simple things to check before a storm arrives.
Build a Vehicle Emergency Kit
Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle. You may need it if you are stuck on the road or have to leave your home quickly.
Your kit can include:
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- First-aid kit
- Bottled water
- Non-perishable snacks
- Phone charger or power bank
- Jumper cables
- Basic tools
- Work gloves
- Blankets
- Rain gear
- Reflective warning items
Keep the items together in a bag or container so they are easy to find.
Make a Go Bag
A go bag is a small bag you can grab if you need to leave quickly. Your go bag may include clothes, medicine, important papers, phone chargers, water, snacks, and other items your family may need. Keep it somewhere that is easy to reach. You should also keep your vehicle's gas tank at least half full when a storm is coming. Gas stations may close or may run out of fuel.
Check Your Battery
A dead battery is the last thing you want during an emergency. Have your battery tested before hurricane season. Make sure the battery connections are clean and tight. If your battery is already weak, replace it before you need your vehicle.
Check Your Tires
Good tires are important on wet roads. Check your tire pressure and look at the tread. If your tires are worn or damaged, have them checked. Do not forget your spare tire. Make sure it is properly filled with air and that you have the tools needed to change a tire.
Check Your Wipers and Lights
Heavy rain can make it hard to see. Worn wiper blades may leave water on the windshield and make driving harder. Check your headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and hazard lights before a storm. If a bulb is out, replace it.
Check Your Fluids
Make sure your vehicle has the proper levels of important fluids.
Check your:
- Engine oil
- Coolant
- Brake fluid
- Transmission fluid
- Windshield washer fluid
If you see a leak under your vehicle, have it checked before the storm.
Keep Your Car Safe During the Storm
If possible, park your vehicle in a garage or another safe place away from trees and loose objects. Never drive through flood water. Even water that does not look very deep can hide a washed-out road, debris, or other dangers. Your vehicle can also lose traction or stall. If local officials tell you to evacuate, follow their instructions and leave early.
Get Your Vehicle Ready Before the Storm
The best time to find a weak battery, bad tire, or worn wipers is before you need your vehicle. At Jim Brangham Auto Repair, we can inspect your vehicle and help you get it ready for hurricane season.
📞 Call (760) 321-7040 to schedule an inspection. A few simple checks today can help you and your vehicle be ready when severe weather arrives.
