Living in Clearwater, FL, means enjoying sunshine most of the year—but it also means preparing for hurricane season. Strong storms, heavy rainfall, and flooding can put both you and your vehicle at risk if you’re not ready. Proper car care before the season arrives ensures you and your family can travel safely during emergencies.
At Coachman Automotive, we’ve put together this Clearwater driver’s checklist to help you prepare your vehicle for hurricane season.
1. Check Your Battery
Hurricane season often brings long power outages and heavy use of your car for charging devices or evacuating. A weak battery could leave you stranded when you need your vehicle most.
👉 Tip: Have your battery tested and make sure terminals are clean and corrosion-free.
2. Inspect Tires and Tire Pressure
Flooded roads and storm debris make tire health critical. Worn tread increases the risk of hydroplaning on wet roads.
👉 Tip: Replace tires that have low tread and check pressure regularly. Keep a spare tire, jack, and tools in your trunk.
3. Top Off Fluids
During severe weather, you don’t want your vehicle to fail because of low fluids. Key fluids include:
- Engine oil
- Transmission fluid
- Brake fluid
- Coolant/antifreeze
- Power steering fluid
- Windshield washer fluid
👉 Tip: Ask your mechanic at Coachman Automotive to perform a fluid check and top-off before hurricane season begins.
4. Test Your Brakes
Safe stopping power is essential when driving through unpredictable weather or debris. Worn brakes can double your stopping distance on wet roads.
👉 Tip: Schedule a brake inspection to ensure your pads, rotors, and fluid are in good condition.
5. Protect Your Windshield & Wipers
Heavy rain is a certainty during Florida storms. If your wipers leave streaks or squeak, they won’t keep your vision clear.
👉 Tip: Replace wiper blades at the start of the season and ensure your windshield washer system is working properly.
6. Prepare an Emergency Kit
Your car should always have a hurricane-ready emergency kit that includes:
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- First-aid supplies
- Jumper cables
- Bottled water and non-perishable snacks
- Phone charger
- Basic tools and gloves
👉 Tip: Store your kit in a waterproof container in the trunk.
7. Keep Your Gas Tank Full
During evacuations, gas stations often run out of fuel. Don’t wait until a storm is on the radar to fill up.
👉 Tip: Keep your tank at least half full throughout hurricane season.
Final Thoughts
Preparing your car for hurricane season isn’t just about protecting your vehicle—it’s about protecting your family’s safety and peace of mind. By following this checklist, Clearwater drivers can feel more confident facing Florida’s toughest weather.
At Coachman Automotive in Clearwater, FL, our ASE-certified technicians are here to help you get storm-ready. From battery checks and brake inspections to tire service and fluid top-offs, we’ll make sure your car is ready for whatever hurricane season brings.
