Cheap car covers can be a false economy, often causing more problems than they solve when it comes to protecting your car from the elements. Parking your vehicle outdoors exposes it to a multitude of threats, from the sun’s damaging UV rays that fade paint and crack interiors, to unpredictable weather like wind, rain, and snow. A sudden gust can turn an ill-fitting cover into a sail, while trapped moisture underneath can lead to corrosion and mildew.
Investing in a top rated outdoor car cover is a smart move to safeguard your vehicle. High-quality covers, like the waterproof Motor Trend T-850, offer multi-layered defense, robust durability, and soft interior linings, often including convenient storage bags. For truck owners, options such as the Kayme 6-Layer Truck Cover provide tailored waterproof protection for truck beds. Some designs, such as the Coverking Silverguard, even include thoughtful features like mirror pockets for a more secure fit.
To help you choose the best protection for your vehicle, we’ve rigorously tested a variety of outdoor car covers under $200, focusing on their performance in real-world conditions. For a deeper understanding of car cover features and variations, consult our Buyer’s Guide, or for a quick overview of pricing and value, jump to the Price & Value section. You can also compare features side-by-side in our Comparison Chart. Otherwise, explore our top recommendations for Top Rated Outdoor Car Covers that will keep your vehicle looking its best.
Editor’s Note: Our guide to outdoor car covers was recently updated on October 30, 2024, to include a new Price & Value analysis.
The Best Outdoor Car Covers of 2025
Best Overall Outdoor Car Cover
Motor Trend T-850
- Layers: 3 heavy-duty layers with a soft lining
- Waterproof: Yes
- Mirror pockets: No
- Storage bag: Yes
Pros
- Custom-fit options available for specific year, make, and model vehicles ensuring optimal outdoor protection.
- Breathable outer layer minimizes moisture buildup under the cover, crucial for outdoor storage.
Cons
- Heavy-duty construction can make handling and storage slightly cumbersome for some users.
- Exposed grommets for cable lock could potentially cause minor abrasions over time.
Derek Mau
For car enthusiasts who take pride in their vehicles, parking outdoors without protection is simply not an option. Exposure to the elements can quickly diminish a vehicle’s appearance, leading to faded paint, interior damage, and even minor scratches. Investing in a top rated outdoor car cover like the Motor Trend T-850 ($84) is a proactive measure that will prevent future headaches and maintain your vehicle’s pristine condition.
The T-850 is built for robust outdoor protection, though its substantial construction can make it a bit unwieldy to manage. We tested this cover on a 2008 Honda Ridgeline and found that tucking in the side mirrors improved the fit, as it lacks dedicated mirror pockets. The elastic hem provides a snug grip around the bumpers, and on windy days, the integrated underbody straps offer added security.
While the grommets for the cable lock are exposed, this is generally a minor concern, unlikely to cause noticeable damage. However, premium covers like the Coverking Silverguard incorporate extra material underneath the grommets as a safeguard against potential scuffs.
Putting any large cover on a vehicle can be tricky, but the Motor Trend logo clearly marked on the front of the T-850 simplifies orientation. Although designed to fit both first and second-generation Ridgelines, the fit on our 2008 model wasn’t perfect due to dimensional differences between generations.
The T-850 excels in water resistance, a critical feature for outdoor car covers. During testing, rainwater did not penetrate the cover, even in the recessed areas of the truck bed. Importantly, we observed no condensation buildup, thanks to the cover’s breathable outer layer which allows moisture to evaporate – vital for preventing damage during outdoor storage.
After three months of intermittent use, the Motor Trend T-850 has maintained its shape and protective qualities. Many budget car covers begin to degrade quickly, showing signs of fading, water leakage, and loosening fit. The T-850 stands out for its durability and consistent performance.
In summary, the Motor Trend T-850 outdoor car cover delivers dependable protection against sun damage, weather exposure, and minor scratches. While mirror pockets are absent and handling can be slightly cumbersome due to its robust build, the cover’s secure elastic hem, straps, and excellent water resistance make it a valuable investment for preserving your vehicle’s appearance and integrity when parked outdoors. Its breathable design further enhances its suitability as a top rated outdoor car cover.
Best Budget Outdoor Car Cover
Kayme 6-Layer Truck Cover
- Layers: 6
- Waterproof: Yes
- Mirror pockets: No
- Storage bag: Yes
Pros
- Driver-side zipper provides convenient access to the vehicle without removing the entire cover, ideal for quick access during outdoor use.
- Soft inner lining protects the vehicle’s paint finish from scratches, important for maintaining appearance during outdoor storage.
- Excellent protection against rain and snow, crucial for outdoor car covers.
- Lightweight design makes it easy for a single person to manage, simplifying daily use outdoors.
Cons
- Water pooling can occur in uncovered truck beds, requiring adjustments for optimal outdoor performance.
- Subpar storage bag quality may compromise long-term storage and portability of this outdoor car cover.
Derek Mau
We tested the Kayme 6-Layer Truck Cover ($67) as a budget-friendly outdoor car cover for an older Ford F-250 exposed to the elements. The owner had previously used other covers to mitigate outdoor aging, and the Kayme offered a noticeable step up in quality compared to basic, low-cost options. While not matching premium brands, its multi-layer construction represents a solid mid-range choice for outdoor protection.
The Kayme’s bright silver finish effectively reflects sunlight, crucial for reducing heat buildup under outdoor car covers, while the soft cotton lining is gentle on the vehicle’s paint. Despite its six layers, the cover remains lightweight and easy to handle, making both application and removal straightforward. Its maneuverability and ease of tucking under bumpers were particularly appreciated during testing.
The fit is snug, providing confidence in its ability to stay secure even in windy conditions – a key consideration for outdoor car covers. For added security, front and rear underbody straps and buckles are included. During spring rain and snow in Idaho, the Kayme effectively shed water. However, we did need to tent the truck bed area to prevent water from pooling, highlighting a typical challenge with truck bed covers in outdoor environments.
In summary, the Kayme 6-Layer Truck Cover delivers mid-range quality outdoor car cover protection at an affordable price. While not as refined as premium covers, it outperforms basic options with its multi-layer build, reflective finish, and soft lining. Its secure fit, aided by straps and buckles, ensures it stays in place outdoors, and its water-shedding capability is a significant advantage. Despite potential water pooling in truck beds, the Kayme remains a strong contender for a top rated outdoor car cover on a budget.
Best Premium Outdoor Car Cover
Coverking Silverguard
- Layers: 2
- Waterproof: No, but it’s water resistant
- Mirror pockets: Yes
- Storage bag: Yes
Pros
- Heavy-duty 300 denier polyester weave resists rips and tears, ensuring long-lasting outdoor car cover durability.
- Highly breathable fabric prevents moisture buildup, critical for maintaining vehicle condition in varying outdoor climates.
- Custom-fit design with integrated mirror pockets provides a secure and tailored fit, maximizing outdoor protection.
- 100% UV protection shields the vehicle from sun damage, essential for preserving paint and interior in outdoor car covers.
Cons
- Best suited for moderate climates, not designed for extreme weather conditions, limiting its usability as an outdoor car cover in harsh environments.
Derek Mau
We tested the Coverking Silverguard ($155) outdoor car cover on a 2006 Subaru Outback. Its custom-fit design, including mirror pockets, provided a perfect fit. The lightweight construction made it effortless to apply and remove, a welcome feature for regular outdoor car cover use.
The Silverguard’s reflective silver outer layer is specifically designed to block harmful UV rays, a primary concern for vehicles parked outdoors. The Coverking logo and a sewn-in tag clearly mark the front, simplifying application.
During a three-week test period in Idaho’s variable weather, including rain, snow, hail, and sunny days, we observed no condensation buildup under the cover. Breathability is paramount for outdoor car covers to prevent moisture-related damage.
Thoughtful details like covered grommets on the underside prevent abrasion from the hard plastic, and double-stitched, wax-coated seams enhance water resistance. These premium features contribute to the Silverguard’s standing as a top rated outdoor car cover.
While its two-layer construction allows for quick drying, the Silverguard is not recommended for extreme weather conditions. Prolonged exposure to severe weather may compromise its materials and lifespan.
Overall, the Coverking Silverguard is a well-engineered and practical outdoor car cover for moderate climates. Its custom fit, lightweight handling, and exceptional UV protection are standout features. The inclusion of mirror pockets, clear front markers, and covered grommets further enhance its appeal. Backed by a 3-year warranty, the Silverguard is a premium choice for discerning owners seeking a top rated outdoor car cover.
Best of the Rest Outdoor Car Cover
EzyShade 10-Layer All-Weather Car Cover
- Layers: 10
- Waterproof: Yes
- Mirror pockets: Yes
- Storage bag: Yes
Pros
- Zippered driver-side door access allows entry without full removal, convenient for outdoor car cover use.
- Reinforced grommet holes enhance cable lock security, important for deterring theft outdoors.
- Single buckle and strap system simplifies securing the cover in windy conditions, crucial for outdoor car covers.
- 100% UV protection safeguards against sun damage, a primary benefit of top rated outdoor car covers.
Cons
- Fit is based on vehicle size categories rather than custom year/make/model fit, potentially compromising optimal outdoor protection.
Derek Mau
The EzyShade 10-Layer All-Weather Car Cover ($66) is designed as a robust outdoor car cover for varied conditions, particularly windy environments and hot climates. Its ten-layer bonded fabric construction, heavy-duty stitching, and elastic edges provide substantial durability. The soft underlayer protects the vehicle’s paint from micro-scratches, a key consideration for maintaining appearance when using outdoor car covers.
Selecting the correct size requires matching your vehicle type and dimensions to EzyShade’s sizing chart. We tested it on a 2012 VW GTI, and while not a perfect custom fit, side coverage was complete, with only a small portion of the lower rear valence exposed. Three straps and buckles enhance security against wind, a vital feature for outdoor car covers.
Even with custom-fit covers, windy conditions can complicate application and removal. The EzyShade’s mirror pockets help stabilize the cover during fitting, particularly useful for vehicles with waxed surfaces or for users with limited reach.
The zippered door panel offers easy cabin access without full removal, a practical feature for outdoor car cover convenience. While the zipper action isn’t exceptionally smooth, interior lining prevents scratches.
Overall, the EzyShade 10-Layer All-Weather Car Cover is a reliable outdoor car cover choice for secure protection, especially in windy conditions. Its reflective surface aids in keeping the vehicle cool, and the multilayer design ensures durability. Though the fit isn’t custom, the security straps, mirror pockets, and zippered access make it a practical and effective top rated outdoor car cover.
Tecoom YL 8-Layers
- Layers: 8
- Waterproof: Yes
- Mirror pockets: Yes
- Storage bag: Yes
Pros
- Zippered driver-side door access enhances convenience for quick entry, valuable for outdoor car cover users.
- Reinforced grommet holes for cable lock provide added security against theft outdoors.
- Thick, soft inner liner offers superior paint protection, crucial for maintaining vehicle appearance under an outdoor car cover.
- 100% UV protection prevents sun damage, a key benefit of top rated outdoor car covers.
Cons
- Fit is based on vehicle dimensions rather than custom year/make/model, potentially affecting optimal outdoor protection.
- Included cable and padlock security are easily bypassed, limiting effective theft deterrence outdoors.
- Underbody straps are positioned at wheel locations, making their use somewhat awkward.
Derek Mau
The Tecoom YL 8-Layers ($59) outdoor car cover stands out for its comprehensive vehicle protection. Its multilayer construction provides excellent defense against the elements, making it suitable for year-round outdoor car cover use. High-quality materials ensure durability and longevity, offering peace of mind for your investment in outdoor car cover protection.
The Tecoom cover excels in providing extensive coverage. Using the sizing chart, we selected a cover for a 2023 Toyota RAV4 hybrid. The fit was snug and nearly complete, with only a minor portion of the rear valence panel remaining uncovered. This near-perfect coverage is a significant advantage for outdoor car covers.
An elastic hem ensures a secure fit, and included straps and buckles add further security, keeping the cover in place during windy conditions – a necessity for outdoor car covers. However, the strap placement at the wheels is somewhat inconvenient, requiring them to be routed around the tires or through wheel slots.
Convenient features include mirror pockets for a tailored fit, a storage bag, and grommets for cable/lock security. The bright reflective color enhances visibility, and the side zipper allows easy driver-side access. These features add to the practicality of this top rated outdoor car cover.
The Tecoom’s padded feel adds extra protection, though the increased weight can make application and removal slightly more cumbersome. However, this minor inconvenience is outweighed by the superior protection and durability offered by this all-weather eight-layer outdoor car cover. Overall, the Tecoom YL 8-Layers is a top-tier choice for anyone seeking a top rated outdoor car cover to safeguard their vehicle.
The Coverking Silverguard outdoor car cover provides a custom fit for a Subaru Outback, offering excellent outdoor protection (photo/Derek Mau).
Outdoor Car Covers Comparison Chart
Scroll right to view all of the columns: Price, Layers, Waterproof, Mirror pockets, Storage bag.
| Outdoor Car Covers | Price | Layers | Waterproof | Mirror Pockets | Storage Bag |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Motor Trend T-850 | $84 | 3 heavy-duty layers with a soft lining | Yes | No | Yes |
| Kayme 6-Layer Truck Cover | $67 | 6 | Yes | No | Yes |
| Coverking Silverguard | $155 | 2 | No, but it’s water-resistant | Yes | Yes |
| EzyShade 10-Layer All-Weather Car Cover | $66 | 10 | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Tecoom YL 8-Layers | $59 | 8 | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Labels like those on the Coverking Silverguard outdoor car cover streamline application (photo/Derek Mau).
How We Tested Outdoor Car Covers
Our Expert Testers
Our automotive expert, Derek Mau, who specializes in vehicle detailing and protection, led the testing for this outdoor car cover guide. Derek’s expertise includes meticulous research, hands-on testing of automotive products, and creating detailed, informative reviews for GearJunkie.
This guide evaluates a range of truck and car covers designed for various outdoor protection needs, from light-duty to all-weather performance. We assess covers that offer reliable protection for cars, trucks, SUVs, and crossovers parked outdoors.
Our Testing Grounds
Based in Idaho, Derek Mau tested these outdoor car covers in a climate characterized by hot summers and frosty winters, providing a comprehensive evaluation across diverse weather conditions.
Our Testing Process
Testing outdoor car covers involves evaluating key aspects to ensure they meet the demands of outdoor vehicle protection. Our assessment criteria included fit, material quality, waterproofness, breathability, UV protection, ease of use, storage, and additional features.
- Fit: We verified that each outdoor car cover fit the designated vehicle correctly, ensuring full coverage without excessive looseness or tightness, essential for effective outdoor protection.
- Material Quality: Materials were examined for durability and weather resistance, confirming their ability to withstand rain, sun, and other outdoor environmental factors.
- Waterproofing: We tested water resistance by spraying covers with water and observing water repellency and penetration, critical for outdoor car covers.
- Breathability: Air circulation was assessed to prevent moisture and condensation buildup under outdoor car covers, a key factor in preventing mold and mildew.
- UV Protection: We evaluated UV protection to prevent fading and damage to vehicle paint exposed to the sun outdoors, a primary function of top rated outdoor car covers.
- Ease of Use: Installation and removal processes were timed and evaluated for user-friendliness, important for daily use of outdoor car covers.
- Storage: We checked for included storage bags to facilitate easy storage when outdoor car covers are not in use.
- Additional Features: Features like mirror pockets, antenna patches, and front markers were noted for their contribution to outdoor car cover practicality.
Most custom-fit outdoor vehicle covers include mirror pockets for enhanced fit and protection (photo/Derek Mau).
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Outdoor Car Covers
Using an outdoor car cover offers numerous benefits. They are easy to use, protect against scratches and dents, and are invaluable during allergy season, keeping pollen and dust away. Most importantly, they safeguard your investment by maintaining your car in excellent condition when parked outdoors.
Outdoor car covers vary significantly in quality, design, and price. Selecting the right balance of features is crucial for effective outdoor vehicle protection.
When choosing between indoor and outdoor car covers, consider your parking situation and specific protection needs. For outdoor parking, a robust outdoor car cover is essential.
The interior of the Coverking Silverguard outdoor car cover features a soft lining to protect vehicle paint (photo/Derek Mau).
If you’re considering investing in an outdoor car cover, here are key advantages to keep in mind:
Benefits of Outdoor Automotive Covers
- Protection from the elements: An outdoor car cover shields your vehicle from rain, snow, hail, UV rays, and other weather damage, preserving its exterior finish when parked outdoors.
- Prevention of scratches and dings: Outdoor car covers act as a barrier against scratches and minor damage from debris and accidental impacts common in outdoor environments.
- Deterrence of theft and vandalism: An outdoor car cover can make your vehicle less attractive to thieves by concealing it and adding a layer of protection, especially in outdoor parking situations.
- Preservation of interior: Outdoor car covers help prevent interior fading and cracking by blocking UV rays and reducing temperature fluctuations, crucial for vehicles parked outdoors.
- Saves money: Investing in an outdoor car cover can reduce long-term costs by minimizing the need for frequent car washes and paint maintenance due to outdoor exposure.
- Convenience: Using an outdoor car cover eliminates constant cleaning, particularly in dusty outdoor storage areas.
- Maintains resale value: Protecting your vehicle with an outdoor car cover helps maintain its condition, positively impacting its resale value by preventing outdoor wear and tear.
We tested the EzyShade 10-Layer All-Weather Outdoor Car Cover for both indoor and outdoor use (photo/Derek Mau).
Outdoor Car Covers
Outdoor truck and car covers are specifically designed to protect your vehicle’s exterior from harsh weather, bird droppings, tree sap, and other outdoor contaminants.
- Material: Outdoor car covers utilize heavier, more durable materials like polypropylene, polyester blends, or vinyl, engineered for outdoor durability.
- Protection: They provide robust defense against scratches, dents, and physical damage prevalent in outdoor environments.
- Weather Resistance: Outdoor car covers are designed to withstand extreme outdoor conditions, offering superior UV protection and weather resistance.
- Breathability: Breathability is essential in outdoor covers to prevent moisture buildup, unlike indoor covers which prioritize dust protection.
For example, the Motor Trend T-850 waterproof truck cover excels at weather protection and breathability, making it ideal as an outdoor car cover.
Choosing an outdoor truck or car cover is essential if you park outdoors and need comprehensive protection from the elements, including UV rays and rain, ensuring your vehicle remains protected from outdoor damage.
A zipper door flap allows vehicle access with the EzyShade 10-Layer All-Weather Outdoor Car Cover in place, convenient for outdoor use (photo/Derek Mau).
Reflective fabric on outdoor car covers, like these mirror pockets, enhances visibility and safety (photo/Derek Mau).
Choosing the Right Outdoor Car Cover for Your Vehicle
When shopping for an outdoor car cover, consider these factors to ensure you select the best option for your vehicle’s outdoor protection:
Size & Fit
Select an outdoor car cover designed for your specific vehicle make and model. A snug fit provides superior protection and prevents wind flapping, crucial for outdoor car covers. The Coverking Silverguard custom-fit outdoor car cover perfectly fit our Subaru Outback, demonstrating the importance of precise fit for outdoor protection.
The Motor Trend T-850 is a top rated outdoor car cover we tested and recommend (photo/Derek Mau).
Material Type
Prioritize outdoor car covers made from breathable, waterproof, and UV-resistant materials. Polyester or polypropylene are commonly used in outdoor vehicle covers due to their durability and weather-resistant properties, essential for outdoor protection.
Weather Protection
Consider your local weather conditions and choose an outdoor car cover offering appropriate protection. A waterproof cover is essential for wet climates, ensuring your vehicle stays dry when parked outdoors.
We tested the Motor Trend T-850 outdoor car cover on a Honda Ridgeline for outdoor performance (photo/Derek Mau).
Softness
Ensure the inner layer of the outdoor car cover is soft to prevent scratching your vehicle’s paint, maintaining its finish during outdoor use.
Security Features
Look for outdoor car covers with tie-down straps, elastic hems, or built-in locks to secure them against wind and theft, crucial for outdoor security.
The Motor Trend T-850 outdoor car cover includes a storage bag for convenient outdoor portability (photo/Derek Mau).
Storage
Choose an outdoor car cover with a storage bag for easy and compact storage when not in use, especially useful for outdoor applications.
Budget
Set a budget and find outdoor car covers that provide the best features within your price range, balancing cost and essential outdoor protection.
Warranty
Check for warranties on outdoor car covers to ensure quality and purchase protection, providing assurance for your outdoor car cover investment.
Despite their size, outdoor car covers like the Motor Trend T-850 are malleable and storable in vehicle compartments (photo/Derek Mau).
Why Truck & Outdoor Car Covers Offer Good Protection
Truck and outdoor car covers are vital for protecting vehicles parked outdoors. They prevent buildup of pollen, dust, dirt, and minor damage, maintaining your vehicle’s condition against outdoor elements.
Prevent Pollen, Dust, and Dirt Buildup
Outdoor auto covers protect against micro-scratches from dust and pollen and prevent moisture and dirt accumulation that can lead to rust when vehicles are parked outdoors.
We tested the Tecoom YL 8-Layers outdoor car cover on a Toyota RAV4 hybrid for outdoor performance (photo/Derek Mau).
Protect From Scratches & Dents
Made from durable materials, outdoor truck and car covers shield against scratches and dents from pets or debris, common hazards in outdoor environments.
Keep Your Car Cool in Summer
Outdoor car covers help maintain a cooler interior by reflecting heat, preventing condensation and protecting interiors from UV rays during summer outdoor parking. The Tecoom YL 8-Layers outdoor car cover features a reflective coating for superior UV protection, ideal for outdoor summer conditions.
The Tecoom YL 8-Layers outdoor car cover features padded interior and grommets for security in outdoor settings (photo/Derek Mau).
Protect from Pet Scratches
Outdoor car covers are essential if pets are around your parked car, preventing scratches, hair, and dirt damage to the exterior in outdoor environments.
Protect Your Investment
Outdoor truck and car covers protect against scratches, dents, and weather damage, preserving your vehicle’s condition and value over years of outdoor exposure.
Buckled straps on the Tecoom YL 8-Layers outdoor car cover secure through wheels for wind resistance in outdoor conditions (photo/Derek Mau).
Checklist When Shopping for Outdoor Vehicle Covers
Choosing the right material for your outdoor car cover is crucial to prevent damage. Ideal materials for outdoor car covers withstand local weather conditions, offering waterproof and UV-resistant properties.
Look for materials suited to your climate, such as waterproof and UV-resistant fabrics, and a soft liner to prevent paint scratches in outdoor car covers.
For windy areas, select outdoor car covers with elastic hems and tie-down straps for secure fitting. Some include grommets for cable locks for added outdoor security. The EzyShade 10-Layer All-Weather Car Cover provides tie-down straps, grommets, and elastic hems, enhancing outdoor security.
Consider storage convenience. An outdoor car cover with a storage bag is easier to store when not in use, especially for outdoor applications.
Finally, check warranties for peace of mind and quality assurance on your outdoor car cover purchase.
Price & Value
Our selected outdoor car covers offer excellent options across price ranges. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect at each price point for outdoor car covers:
Budget
Budget outdoor car covers, like the Tecoom YL 8-Layers ($59), are suitable for milder climates, offering waterproof and multi-layer protection with features like mirror pockets and storage bags. While providing essential outdoor car cover functions, universal fits may have slightly misaligned accessories and a less refined feel. The Kayme 6-Layer Truck Cover ($67) also falls into this category, providing good outdoor car cover functionality at a lower price, though with a less premium construction feel.
Mid-Tier
Mid-tier outdoor car covers, such as the Motor Trend T-850 ($84), include thoughtful details like front labels for easy application, robust construction, excellent water resistance, and breathable design. Features like elastic hems, security straps, and included storage bags enhance their value as reliable outdoor car covers.
Premium
Premium outdoor car covers, like the Coverking Silverguard ($155), offer enhanced features such as custom fits, mirror pockets, double-stitched seams, waxed thread, overlapping seams, and covered grommets. These top rated outdoor car covers are more durable, weather-resistant for heavier precipitation, and include extra underlayer material for scuff protection, justifying the higher investment for superior outdoor performance.
The zippered door on the Tecoom YL 8-Layers outdoor car cover includes a storm flap for enhanced weather protection (photo/Derek Mau).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best material to cover a car with outdoors?
The best material for outdoor car covers depends on your specific needs and climate. Here are common materials for outdoor car covers:
- Polyester Blend: Enhances durability and water resistance, suitable for outdoor car covers.
- Polypropylene: Ideal for outdoor car covers due to water resistance and UV protection.
- Vinyl: Offers heavy-duty water and UV protection for outdoor car covers, though less breathable.
- Multi-Layer: Combines materials for superior outdoor car cover protection against various elements.
Protecting an open truck bed with the Kayme 6-Layer Truck Cover outdoor car cover is a key benefit (photo/Derek Mau).
What are the disadvantages of outdoor car covers?
Outdoor car covers can have disadvantages depending on conditions:
- Scratching: Improperly cleaned outdoor car covers or dusty environments can cause paint scratches.
- Moisture Trapping: Non-breathable outdoor car covers can trap moisture, leading to mold, especially in wet conditions.
- Inconvenience: Applying and removing outdoor car covers can be time-consuming.
- Wind Flapping: In windy conditions, outdoor car covers can flap and potentially cause minor paint damage.
Is it worth getting an outdoor car cover?
Absolutely. Outdoor car covers are essential for preserving vehicle value and condition by protecting against sun and UV damage, which are significant threats to paint and interiors in outdoor environments.
The EzyShade 10-Layer All-Weather Outdoor Car Cover features bright reflective markings for enhanced outdoor visibility (photo/Derek Mau).
Is a tarp better than an outdoor car cover?
No. Tarps are unsuitable for vehicle protection and can cause damage. Outdoor car covers are designed to protect against weather, UV rays, and minor damage, with breathable and soft-lined designs. Tarps lack UV protection, breathability, and soft liners, making them inferior to proper outdoor car covers.
The Tecoom YL 8-Layers outdoor car cover includes reflective seams for added safety and visibility (photo/Derek Mau).
Motors
The Best Snow Tires of 2025
This winter, drive confidently in any weather with a reliable set of snow tires.
Motors
The Best Car and Truck Awnings of 2025
Discover the best car and truck awnings for shade and shelter during outdoor adventures. Explore top picks from leading brands.
