Can You Leave a Power Wheels Outside?
No. Leaving a Power Wheels outside year-round cracks the plastic from UV within 1-3 years, can short the motor in rain, and cuts battery life in cold. What weather actually does.
Affiliate Disclosure
This page contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, PowerWheels HQ may earn a commission on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Our reviews and recommendations are editorially independent.
A Power Wheels should not be left outside long term. Direct sun makes the plastic brittle and fade within roughly 1-3 years, rain and standing water can corrode the motor and wiring, and cold or heat shortens battery life. Short stretches outdoors, like a weekend on a covered porch, are fine. A permanent outdoor spot is what shortens a vehicle's life from 5-7 years to 2-3 (a rough estimate based on common owner reports, not a manufacturer figure).
What Each Weather Condition Does
- UV sun: fades and embrittles plastic bodies. Cracks first appear at stress points like hinges and wheel arches.
- Rain: most ride-ons are not waterproof. Water reaching the motor, switches, and wiring causes corrosion and intermittent faults.
- Cold (below about 40°F): sealed lead-acid batteries lose roughly 10-20% of capacity, and a deeply discharged battery can freeze.
- Heat (above about 90°F): shortens battery life and can warp plastic parts.
- Snow and ice: adds moisture to the electronics and loads the drivetrain.
How to Protect One
- Store the vehicle in a garage, shed, or covered porch.
- Bring the battery indoors for winter and recharge it every 30-60 days (lead-acid loses roughly 3-5% charge per month while idle).
- If it must stay outside, use a fitted waterproof cover and keep it off bare ground.
Rain Rule
Driving through a puddle is fine for a few seconds on most models; parking in the rain is not.
Quick Comparison
Waterproof Ride-On Car Cover
Various
Cheapest protection for outdoor storage
- Voltage
- N/A
- Seats
- N/A
- Ages
- Fits most 6V-36V ride-ons
- Price
- $15–$30
| Product | Best For | Specs | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Waterproof Ride-On Car Cover Various | Cheapest protection for outdoor storage | N/A · N/A seats Ages Fits most 6V-36V ride-ons | $15–$30 | 4.4 |
Prices are approximate and subject to change. Always verify current pricing before purchasing.
Our Picks — In Detail
Waterproof Ride-On Car Cover
Various
N/ASeats
N/AAges
Fits most 6V-36V ride-onsPrice
$15–$30
A fitted waterproof cover blocks UV and rain. Pick one sized for your vehicle's length and width.
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Blocks UV and rain
Cons
- Does not protect against cold or battery drain
What to Look For
Voltage (6V / 12V / 24V)
Higher voltage means more power, higher top speed, and better terrain handling. Choose based on your child's age, size, and where they'll ride. 12V is the most popular choice for ages 3–7.
Number of Seats
Single-seat models work for one child; two-seat designs are great for siblings or friends. Two-seaters often put more strain on the motor, so look for adequate power.
Terrain
Most 12V ride-ons handle flat grass and hard surfaces. If you have hills, rough grass, or gravel, look for 24V models with high-traction tires.
Safety Features
Look for seat belts, parental lockout switches, low/high speed settings, and parental remote controls — especially for younger or first-time riders.
Battery & Charging
Check battery life (usually 1–2 hours for 12V) and charge time (8–18 hours). Some premium models offer faster charging or higher-capacity batteries.