If you've ever had the unfortunate experience of watching your little one's beloved electric ride-on car or power wheels getting drenched in an unexpected downpour or sprayed by a rogue garden hose, then this post is exactly what you need.
The Reality of Wet Power Wheels
Power Wheels vehicles can survive occasional rain and humidity, but they work best when they’re kept dry and clean. Heavy rain or flooding can reach a Power Wheels car’s internal electronic components, causing them to fail.
Power Wheels are primarily constructed from sturdy plastic. This material does offer some resistance to water, thereby providing a degree of protection to the internal electrical components.
However, it's crucial to note that Power Wheels are not designed to be fully waterproof.
When Power Wheels get wet, they may initially seem fine and function as usual. But don't let this fool you. Over time, the moisture can seep into the electrical circuitry, causing many problems like damage to the electrical components, erosion of internal mechanisms, and even rust.
The battery compartment is particularly susceptible to water damage.
Can Power Wheels Be Left in the Rain?
Technically, it’s okay to leave your Power Wheels vehicle in the rain occasionally. However, consistent exposure to water can lead to several issues.
Even if you remove a Power Wheels toy’s battery to help reduce water damage, the wiring beneath and inside the toy can still mold, short-circuit, or fail due to excess humidity. So, it's best not to leave your Power Wheels vehicle out in the rain.
Let's take a real-life example. Dan, a father of two active toddlers, shared his story online. His kids left their Power Wheels car out in the rain overnight with the battery still connected. The next morning, the car wouldn't start. Upon further investigation, Dan discovered that the electric motor was damaged due to water exposure.
What Happens When Power Wheels Get Wet?
Battery
The standard Power Wheels 12V battery is both protected by a plastic hood and encased in thick plastic. But heavy rainstorms can drive rain through the hood’s small cracks and flood the internal battery compartment. Over time, this can negatively affect your Power Wheels vehicle’s battery life.
Frame
A Power Wheels toy consistently left outside in the sun and rain will start showing wear and tear. The bright colors may fade, and the plastic might begin to crack, making the once attractive Power Wheels look old and tired.
Seating
The hard plastic Power Wheels seats often collect rainwater. If consistently left outdoors, these seats can become a breeding ground for mold, which can eat through the plastic. Not to mention, nobody likes sitting on a wet seat!
Flooring
Most Power Wheels vehicles don’t have drainage holes in the vehicle’s floor, so rainwater can pool inside. Over time, this can lead to corrosion of the pedal mechanism and the foot pack, and it could even become a breeding ground for pests.
Wheels
When Power Wheels are left outside, the tires can begin to weaken and decay due to UV damage and mold growth. The performance of the tires, especially on surfaces like grass, can significantly reduce over time.
Protecting Your Kid's Toy Car from Water Damage
To keep your child's Power Wheels in top-notch shape, even if it gets drenched, always store it in a sheltered area. This simple habit can protect the internal components, including its battery and wiring, from water damage. It also prevents mold growth in both the plastic and fabric components of a Power Wheels vehicle.
Invest in a High-Quality Waterproof Cover
A top-notch waterproof cover is a worthwhile investment for your kid's ride-on car. It will shield the Power Wheels toy from rain, snow, and other weather elements when it's not in use. Just like we use covers to protect our outdoor furniture or grills, a similar approach works wonders for these electric kids cars.
Store Indoors or Under a Shed
If you have space, consider storing the ride-on car indoors or under a shed. It will provide an additional layer of protection from wet weather, which can be unpredictable at times.
Proper Battery Care
Always remember to remove the battery when washing the car or the power wheels. After cleaning, ensure the battery compartment is completely dry before reinserting the battery. This simple step can go a long way in prolonging the life of your kid's electric ride.
What if Your Power Wheels Get Wet? Here's How to Fix Them!
Despite our best efforts, accidents can happen. If your Power Wheels get wet, don't panic. Here are some possible solutions:
Let it Dry
If the electric ride-on got slightly wet, let it dry out completely before trying to operate it. Depending on how wet it got, this could take anywhere from a few hours to a couple of days.
Check the Battery
If the power wheels battery is wet or shows signs of corrosion, it may need to be replaced. Remember, the battery is one of the most critical components of these electric cars.
Seek Professional Help
If the car still doesn't work after trying the above steps, it's best to seek professional help. Electrical components can be complex and attempting DIY fixes without proper knowledge might lead to further damage.
Wrapping Up
While a power wheel vehicle might not immediately malfunction after spending a day in the rain, these toys aren't designed for permanent outdoor storage.
Consistent rain and sun can damage a power wheels toy’s internal components. To keep your child safe from moldy seats, wet floors, and electrical short-circuiting, remember to store your electric car properly.
Invest in a high-quality waterproof protective cover, store the electric toy vehicle appropriately, and take good care of the battery compartment.
Remember, a little prevention can go a long way in prolonging the life of your kid's favorite ride. Let's keep those Power Wheels dry and ready for many more fun-filled adventures!
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