Hurricane Season & Your Golf Cart: How to Prepare and Stay Safe After the Storm
Life on the Carolina coast means warm days, long evenings and countless opportunities to cruise in your Etto leisure car. But from June through November, our shores face the unpredictability of hurricane season. While most people think first about boarding up windows and stocking supplies, your golf cart also deserves a spot on your storm prep checklist.
These vehicles aren't just for fun — they're transportation, convenience and, in many neighborhoods, an essential part of daily life. Protecting your vehicle before the storm and knowing how to handle it safely afterward will help extend its life and keep you moving long after the clouds clear.
At Etto, our team has witnessed firsthand what severe weather can do to these beloved vehicles. That's why we're sharing our best practices for preparation, recovery and peace of mind.
Secure Your Investment Before the Storm
When a storm approaches, time is limited — but a few quick steps can dramatically reduce the risk of damage:
Charge the battery fully, then disconnect. A topped-up battery keeps stored power in reserve, but disconnecting reduces the chance of damage from electrical surges.
Move to higher ground. Flooding is the most common storm-related damage we see. If possible, move your golf cart indoors to a garage, shed, or elevated parking area.
Cover and protect. Consider investing in a durable, weatherproof cover. While it won't fully stop flying debris, it will help mitigate impact and provide ongoing protection against driving rain, salt and sand.
Secure loose items. High winds can turn small objects into projectiles. If you can't park inside, position your cart away from trees, signs, or unsecured furniture.
Document condition. Take photos of your cart before the storm. This simple step can prove invaluable for insurance or service claims later.
After the Storm: Safety First
Once the skies clear, jumping in and riding out to check on neighbors or survey the damage is tempting. But caution comes first:
Look for standing water. If your car was exposed to flooding, avoid turning it on until it's been professionally inspected. Starting it too soon can cause irreversible damage.
Check tires and brakes. Storm debris often leaves nails, glass, or sharp branches behind. Ensure your tires are properly inflated and your brakes respond correctly before driving.
Inspect the battery compartment. Saltwater and electricity don't mix — corrosion can begin within hours. If you suspect water intrusion, contact our service team immediately.
Avoid flooded streets. Golf carts are not designed to navigate standing water, and doing so can damage the motor and electrical system beyond repair.
Schedule a professional service check. Even if your vehicle appears unaffected, our certified technicians can identify hidden issues before they become costly repairs.
Etto Cares: Help When the Water Rises
We know that sometimes, despite your best efforts, the storm wins. That’s why we launched the Etto Cares Flood Assistance Program.
Through this comprehensive program, we:
Assess water damage thoroughly. Our experienced technicians carefully evaluate your vehicle to determine what can be repaired and which components need replacement.
Provide honest, transparent guidance. Sometimes repairs are the smart choice, but replacement may be safer and more cost-effective in other cases. We'll help you understand all your options without any sales pressure.
Offer community-first support. Our goal isn't simply to fix cars — it's to keep our neighbors mobile, safe and confident in their investments.
This program was born from the devastating 2023 floods, when many customers were uncertain whether their vehicles could be salvaged. Etto stepped up then, and we remain committed to standing beside our community through every storm season ahead.
Why It Matters
Your golf cart represents more than just convenience — it's integral to your coastal lifestyle. By preparing thoughtfully before the storm and exercising caution afterward, you protect your investment and peace of mind. And when storms do leave their mark, Etto Cares stands ready with expertise, compassion and practical solutions.
The Bottom Line
Hurricane season brings uncertainty, but you can face it with confidence. Charge, cover, secure and document before the storm. Inspect carefully, avoid water hazards and schedule professional service afterward.
And remember — when the waters rise, Etto rises with you.
Ready to prepare your golf cart for hurricane season? Contact Etto today to learn more about weatherproof covers, maintenance services and our Etto Cares Flood Assistance Program.