If you're in the path of a hurricane, the first thing you need to do is get your family and your home prepared for the storm. The next thing you need to do is get your car ready. This is particularly important if your car is going to be left outside as the storm passes by, which can happen if you don't have a garage. You want to try and be ready for anything that might come your way. Here are four steps to make sure your car is ready for the hurricane.

Fill the Tank with Gasoline

If you know that a hurricane is coming, the first thing you need to do is fill the tank. You don't want to be on empty if you're ordered to evacuate the area. Not only that, but an empty gas tank makes your car more buoyant, which means it has a higher chance of floating away if the gas tank is empty. As soon as the hurricane warning is issued, head out and fill your tank. Don't wait until the last minute, or you may not be able to get the gasoline you need.

Take Off the Removable Extras

If you have accessories attached to the exterior of your car, you need to remove them before the storm comes through. Not only can those removable accessories be ripped off your car during the hurricane, they can also become airborne quite quickly and cause further damage. To make sure your car is ready for the hurricane, remove things like the removable antenna's, magnetic door signs, etc.

Document Your Cars Condition

If your car sustains damage during the hurricane, you'll need to file an insurance claim. Unfortunately, it's not always easy to prove damage, especially if you don't have the proper documentation. Before the hurricane comes through, head out and take plenty of pictures of your car — inside and out. Be sure to get pictures of all the windows, tires, and wheels. The more pictures you have of your car, the easier it will be to prove that new damage came from the hurricane.

Seal the Windows and Cover the Car

If you don't have a garage or storage shed to park your car in during the storm, you'll need to take steps to keep water out of it. Before the rains come, place plastic sheeting over all the windows and tape it in place. Be sure the plastic sheeting is sealed tightly to keep the water out of the car. Finally, cover your car with an auto cover or a large tarp and be sure it's secured tightly. This will help prevent water damage from torrential rains.

If you're bracing for a hurricane, use the tips provided here to give your car the care it will need. Once the storm has passed, take your car in for a complete service inspection at a shop such as Action  Transmission.