When hurricane season approaches, adequately preparing your vehicle can save you a lot of headaches and heartache. Coastal residents, particularly vehicle owners in hurricane-prone areas like Florida, understand how unpredictable and destructive these storms can be.
While securing your home is usually your biggest priority, your car, truck, or RV also benefits from your attention. If outdoor vehicle storage is your best option, taking the right precautions can prevent major damage.
This guide is chock full of tips for outdoor vehicle storage before hurricane season. If you live in a hurricane-prone area, you can’t miss the information ahead.
How Hurricane Season Affects Your Vehicle
Hurricanes and their accompanying storm systems can wreak havoc on vehicles of all shapes and sizes. Here’s what can happen if your vehicle isn’t adequately prepared:
- Flooding: Heavy rain and storm surges can cause severe water damage to a vehicle’s interior and engine components. Salt water, in particular, is highly corrosive and can accelerate rust.
- Debris damage: During high winds, loose objects like tree branches or unsecured items can become projectiles, denting and scratching your car.
- Electrical issues: Prolonged exposure to humidity and moisture can lead to electrical malfunctions or short circuits.
- Tire and brake problems: Persistent standing water or harsh conditions can weaken tires and brakes, reducing reliability.
- Paint and bodywork damage: Storm debris and high-pressure winds can ruin a vehicle’s paint job or cause surface damage.
Understanding your vehicle’s vulnerabilities and acting proactively is vital to avoid these risks.
Assessing Your Vehicle’s Vulnerabilities
Before hurricane season starts, take stock of your vehicle’s condition and where it will be stored. Evaluate these existing risk factors:
- Location: Is the vehicle stored in a low-lying or flood-prone area? Structures situated in these zones are at greater risk of water damage.
- Condition: Are there preexisting issues, like worn seals, damaged tires, or a corroded undercarriage? Addressing minor concerns can reduce the risk of major damage later.
- Accessibility: If evacuation becomes necessary, can you access the vehicle quickly, or is it in a location that might get blocked during a storm?
Once you’ve assessed these factors, you’ll have a better idea of the steps you need to take to protect your vehicle.
Outdoor Vehicle Storage Tips To Use Before Hurricane Season
While keeping your vehicle inside your garage is often ideal, it’s not always feasible. That’s where outdoor vehicle storage comes in handy. Here are some practical steps to keep your vehicle safe in storage.
Choose the Right Outdoor Storage Facility
Selecting a reliable outdoor storage facility can make all the difference. Look for facilities with strong security measures, like fencing or cameras, and confirm that the location has proper drainage systems to minimize flood risks. Need a recommendation? Sunshine Storage offers secure outdoor storage options backed by great reviews and designed with professionals and vehicle owners in mind.
Elevate Your Vehicle Whenever Possible
If the storage facility provides the option, park your vehicle on higher ground; risers are also helpful for creating elevation. The little bit of extra lift can protect vulnerable components of your vehicle, like the undercarriage, from water damage.
Invest in a Durable Vehicle Cover
A high-quality, weatherproof car cover can shield your vehicle from flying debris, heavy rain, and wind-driven elements. Opt for one that fits snugly to avoid being torn off by strong winds. Water-resistant materials and tie-down straps for added security are also great features to have.
Inspect and Maintain Seals
Closely inspect your vehicle’s door, window, and windshield seals. Cracks or damage around the seals can allow water to seep through, causing interior damage or mold growth. Repair seals as needed using weatherproof adhesive or professional services.
Remove Valuables
Take out all personal belongings or electronics from your vehicle if a hurricane is forecasted in your area. You can prevent financial loss if flooding or damage occurs.
Disconnect the Battery
Disconnect your vehicle’s battery if you plan to store your car for an extended period. This precaution protects the electrical system and prevents the battery from draining while the vehicle isn’t in use. Additionally, disconnection can prevent potential short circuits caused by humidity or water exposure, keeping your car in better condition during storage.
Fill the Gas Tank and Add Stabilizer
Keeping the gas tank full reduces the risk of condensation forming inside, which can lead to potential issues over time. Additionally, adding a high-quality fuel stabilizer maintains the integrity of the gasoline, especially when the vehicle is stored for long periods.
Check and Inflate the Tires
Properly inflated tires are essential for preventing flat spots from forming during long periods of storage, which can damage the tires over time. Before storing your vehicle, carefully inspect the tires for signs of preexisting damage, such as cuts, cracks, or excessive wear. Identifying and addressing these issues is critical, as they could pose a serious safety risk if you need to drive the vehicle in an emergency.
Secure the Vehicle Against Wind
Securing your vehicle to prevent movement during high winds is a smart precaution. You can use anchors or wheel chocks if available. Avoid parking under trees, as falling branches can cause damage.
Review Insurance and Documentation
Double-check that your current insurance policy includes comprehensive coverage for weather-related incidents, such as storms or flooding. Review your policy regularly so you fully understand what is and isn’t covered to avoid surprises later. Keep all relevant documentation organized and in a safe, easily accessible location so you can quickly file claims if needed after a storm.
Proactive Steps To Protect Your Vehicle
Preparing your vehicle for hurricane season might seem like a hassle, but it’s always a worthwhile investment. From choosing a reliable storage facility to following these detailed tips, small measures today can prevent significant losses tomorrow.
Don’t leave your vehicle’s safety up to chance. If you’re searching for “outdoor vehicle storage near me,” look no further than Sunshine Storage. With secure facilities and customer-first service, your car will have a safe place to stay through the storms ahead. Contact us today to learn more!
