Credit: DisneyIf you’ve been meaning to get one more lap in at Radiator Springs Racers, the time to do it is now. In just a few days, one of Disney California Adventure’s most popular rides will shut down for refurbishment — and this time, there’s no set reopening date on the calendar.
A Cars Land Favorite Since 2012
When Cars Land debuted at Disney California Adventure back in 2012, it was an instant hit. The immersive land pulls guests straight into the world of Pixar’s Cars, with neon signs, weathered desert rockwork, and the charming small-town streets of Radiator Springs recreated in stunning detail.
Radiator Springs Racers quickly became the crown jewel of the land. Combining dark ride storytelling with Test Track-style speed, the attraction sends guests on a scenic drive through the countryside before amping up the adrenaline for a high-speed race to the finish line. For many, it’s the one ride that defines a visit to Disney California Adventure.
The Countdown to Closure
Disney has confirmed that Radiator Springs Racers will close starting August 18 for scheduled maintenance. While refurbishments are nothing new for major attractions, what’s giving fans pause this time is that Disney hasn’t announced a reopening date.
The closure is expected to last “about a month or longer,” but without an exact timeline, it’s impossible to know when the starting lights will blink green again.
So if you’re heading to Disneyland Resort in the next week and this ride is on your must-do list, make it a priority before the engines shut off.
What’s Being Updated?
The refurbishment will include the usual upkeep that helps keep Radiator Springs Racers running safely and smoothly. That means resurfacing parts of the track, a necessary step to maintain performance for those high-speed moments that make the ride so thrilling.
But this update goes beyond the basics. Recent permit filings show that the project will also introduce technology upgrades, including a full switch to energy-efficient LED lighting, as well as enhancements to the attraction’s audio, video, and network systems.
While these changes won’t alter the core ride experience, they could improve everything from the clarity of the show scenes to the reliability of the ride’s timing and effects.
A History of Pit Stops
This isn’t the first time Radiator Springs Racers has taken a break from the track. The ride closed briefly in February 2024 for routine work, and before that, it had a longer closure in August 2023. Like many attractions, periodic downtime is part of keeping it in top condition. Still, each closure tends to be met with a collective sigh from fans who consider it a must-do every trip.
The difference this time? The uncertainty. Previous closures came with clear reopening dates. This one leaves us in limbo.
Cars Land Without the Racers
Even with its headliner attraction closed, Cars Land still offers plenty to enjoy. Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree delivers a quirky, spinning good time, while Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters lets guests twirl and glide across the dance floor in colorful Italian roadsters.
Flo’s V8 Café remains a favorite for classic diner fare with a Route 66 twist, and the land’s iconic neon lights make nighttime visits especially magical.
And with Halloween approaching, Haul-O-Ween decorations will soon transform the land into a spooky-yet-silly celebration, complete with “car-stumes” on the residents of Radiator Springs. That seasonal overlay alone makes Cars Land worth a stop, even if Radiator Springs Racers is behind construction walls.
The Bigger Picture
This closure comes as Disney continues to invest heavily in its theme parks, both in California and Florida. At Walt Disney World, a Cars-themed expansion is on the way as part of a major Frontierland reimagining, with new attractions inspired by the landscapes and spirit of the American West.
While that doesn’t directly impact Disneyland’s Cars Land, it’s clear that the Cars franchise remains a priority for Disney Imagineering. The tech upgrades coming to Radiator Springs Racers now could be part of ensuring the attraction stays competitive and in top form for years to come.
What You Should Do if You’re Visiting Soon
If your trip falls before August 18, consider hitting Radiator Springs Racers early in the day to avoid its famously long lines. Lightning Lane access can also save you a lot of time.
If you’re visiting during the closure, focus on the other experiences Cars Land has to offer, as well as nearby attractions like Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! and the Incredicoaster. And if you’re a big fan of the Racers, keep an eye on Disneyland’s official refurbishment calendar and park announcements for updates on when the ride might return.
The Road Ahead
Radiator Springs Racers isn’t going anywhere permanently — Disney has made it clear that this is a refurbishment, not a retirement. But for now, the exact length of this pit stop is anyone’s guess. Whether the ride is back in a month or takes longer to reopen, the goal is to ensure it runs as smoothly and reliably as ever.
So here’s your friendly reminder: if you want one last race before the checkered flag drops next week, don’t wait. The finish line is in sight — and after August 18, it’s going to be a while before the engines roar to life again.