When storm season rolls through Florida, most people think about securing their homes—but your car needs protection, too. Heavy rain, wind, flying debris, and flooding can all do serious damage to your vehicle in a short amount of time. From water-soaked interiors to dented panels and electrical failures, storms don’t play around when it comes to vehicle damage.
If you want to avoid costly repairs and keep your car in good shape through the season, here are five smart ways to prepare.
1. Park in the Safest Spot Possible
Where your car sits during a storm matters more than most people realize. If you have a garage, use it. If not, try to find a covered parking structure or at least a location away from trees, power lines, and anything else that could fall or blow into your car.
If flooding is a concern—and in places like Pensacola, FL, it often is—avoid parking in low-lying areas, even if they’re convenient. Water can rise quickly, and once it gets into your engine, electronics, or interior, the repair costs can skyrocket.
When you know a big storm is coming, plan ahead so you’re not scrambling to move your car at the last minute.
2. Check and Seal Windows and Weatherstripping
One of the easiest ways water gets into your car is through old or cracked weather seals around doors, windows, or the trunk. If you’ve noticed water pooling on your floor mats after a storm—or the interior smelling musty—you may already have a leak.
Take a few minutes to inspect the rubber seals around your doors and windows. Look for cracks, gaps, or dried-out areas. Replacing worn weatherstripping is simple and can save your interior from mold, electrical damage, and corrosion.
Even small leaks can cause big headaches, especially if water reaches wiring under the dash or carpeting.
3. Keep Your Battery and Electrical System in Top Shape
Storms often bring high humidity and moisture that can affect your battery and electrical system. If your battery is nearing the end of its life or the terminals are corroded, the added moisture in the air can make starting your car more difficult.
Make sure your battery is tested before storm season, and clean the terminals if there’s any buildup. If you’ve been putting off electrical repairs—like flickering headlights or dashboard issues—now’s the time to take care of them. Wet conditions have a way of turning small electrical problems into big ones fast.
4. Protect the Exterior From Hail and Debris
Flying debris during high winds can cause dings, dents, and shattered glass. Hailstorms, though less frequent, can destroy a vehicle’s surface in minutes. If you have no choice but to park outside, consider using a car cover that’s rated for storm protection—or even thick blankets in a pinch.
While it may not prevent all damage, a padded cover can significantly reduce the impact of small debris and minimize paint damage.
After the storm, rinse off your car as soon as possible. Stormwater often contains salt, dirt, and pollutants that can cling to your paint and cause long-term damage if not cleaned off promptly.
5. Make Sure Your Tires, Wipers, and Lights Are Storm-Ready
Your car’s connection to the road is only as strong as your tires. If they’re worn, underinflated, or mismatched, you’ll lose traction quickly in wet conditions. Hydroplaning is a major risk during heavy rain, and bald tires don’t help.
Before storm season hits, check your tire tread depth, air pressure, and alignment. Also, replace old or streaky windshield wipers, and test all exterior lights—including brake lights and turn signals—to ensure you’ll be visible and in control during low visibility conditions.
A little prep goes a long way when it comes to safe driving in harsh weather.
East Hill Automotive – Storm-Season Car Prep in Pensacola, FL
Want to make sure your car is ready for whatever storm season throws at it? Come by
East Hill Automotive in Pensacola, FL. We’ll inspect your tires, battery, wipers, weather seals, and more to help you stay safe and protected all season long.
