If you live in an area where hurricanes are common, you know that preparation is everything. While most of us focus on stocking up on water, batteries and securing our homes, don't forget about one of your most important assets—your vehicle. Making sure your car is ready for severe weather can make a huge difference when you need your vehicle most.
At Pep Boys, we want to help you stay prepared and mobile during hurricane season, so you can focus on keeping you and your family safe.
Battery Power When You Need It Most
Severe weather can drain your battery faster than usual, especially if you're stuck in traffic during evacuations or need to keep your engine running for extended periods. Stop in for a free battery test to make sure yours can handle the extra demands.
Tires That Can Handle Wet Roads
Wet roads and debris are tough on tires during storms. Check your tread depth, tire pressure, and don't forget to inspect your spare tire. Good tread is essential for maintaining traction on wet, slippery roads. If your tires are worn or your spare is flat, now's the time to address it—not when you're trying to evacuate.
Reliable Braking Power
You may encounter stop-and-go evacuation traffic and need reliable stopping power on wet roads. Listen for any unusual sounds and pay attention to how your brakes feel when you press the pedal. Squeaking, grinding, or a spongy brake pedal are signs you need service before the next storm hits.
Keep Your Fluids Topped Off
Check all your essential fluids—oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Heavy rain means you'll need clear visibility, and extended idling during evacuations can stress your engine. Low coolant can lead to overheating in stop-and-go traffic, while dirty oil won't protect your engine during extended operation.
Lights for Visibility and Safety
Storm conditions mean reduced visibility for everyone on the road. Test all your exterior lights, including headlights, taillights, turn signals, and hazard lights to make sure other drivers can see you. A burned-out headlight or taillight can make you nearly invisible in heavy rain and put you at risk.
The Golden Rule: Keep Your Tank Full
Always keep your tank full during hurricane season. Gas stations may lose power or run out of fuel during and after storms, so don't wait until the last minute to fill up. Make it a habit to top off whenever you hit the half-tank mark during storm season.
Don't Wait Until the Weather Gets Bad
Hurricane season runs from June through November, and the peak months are often the busiest for automotive service centers. Schedule your pre-storm maintenance early in the season when appointments are easier to get and you're not competing with the last-minute rush.
Visit PepBoys.com to schedule your vehicle inspection or stop by any of our more than 800 locations nationwide.
