Car Covers FAQ

By Mike Cote - December 11, 2018

1. What is the correct way to install a car cover?

In general, always cover the front and rear bumpers as the last step. If the car cover has mirror pockets, place the pockets over the mirrors first. If you have an old car you should cover the roof and windows first, and then the front and rear of the car. On some coupes and roadsters made prior to 1932, you might not be able to install the car cover at all if you start with the front or the rear bumper.

2. What is the best way to fold a car cover when taking it off my vehicle?

Simply fold each side of the car cover up onto the roof and refold it as necessary so the material ends up about 2 feet wide. Then, starting at the front of the vehicle, fold the car cover towards the back in increments of about 3 feet. This way you will not drag the car cover over the vehicle's surface, and it’s easy to reverse the process for installation.

3. What is the best way to store my car cover?

Your car cover is best stored folded-up and placed in a Car Cover Storage Bag. Many drivers simply ball-up their cover in their trunk or rear cargo area. Not only does this hog space, it makes for tougher installation the next time you want to cover your car.

Keeping your car cover in a Car Cover Storage Bag assures dust-free keeping. When you’re ready to use it, just take your folded cover out of the bag and begin covering your vehicle.

It’s always best to store your car cover when completely dry, especially if you won’t be using the cover for a while. Though our covers are mold and mildew resistant, storing the cover wet can cause unwanted damage. When it’s stored dry in a Car Cover Storage Bag, your car cover fits compactly in your vehicle or your garage.

4. How do I know the car cover won’t scratch my vehicle?

Each of the car covers we sell is designed with an inner layer that’s paint-safe and scratch-free. This is achieved with a variety of non-abrasive material used especially to protect your finish. For complete paint protection, follow the care instructions included with your new car cover.

5. How does my new car cover stay on my vehicle?

The most important way your new car cover stays on your vehicle is its custom-fitted design. To complete the custom fit, car covers are also made with elastic material sewn into the bottom front and rear for extra cling. To keep your cover on your vehicle when high-winds or thieves pass through, we recommend a Car Cover Cable and Lock for security.

6. How is the car cover custom-made for my vehicle?

Car cover fabrics are precision-cut on computer-controlled equipment for an exact fit for every year, make, model, and sub-model. Manufacturers use extra-wide fabric sheets to minimize the number of seams used to match your vehicle’s contour. This way, you get a smooth, sleek-looking cover for your car, truck, van, or SUV.

7. What if my new car cover does not fit?

The first thing to do is check to make sure you’ve put it on your vehicle according to the directions included with your new car cover. You’d be surprised how often re-reading the installation directions solves the problem.

If that doesn’t solve the problem, double-check that you ordered and received the correct cover for your year, make, model, and sub-model. Consult your vehicle’s manual if you’re having trouble determining what its specs are.

8. What is the best way to care for my car cover?

Your car cover can pick up a lot of dirt, dust, and other gunk, especially if it’s an outdoor cover. Washing your car cover is an important part of its care. The best way to wash your cover varies between models, fabrics, and styles. Always pay close attention to the included instructions that come with your car cover. They’ll have details on caring for your cover, and more specific directions for washing your specific fabric and treatment.

Some of our car covers can be washed in a home washing machine, while others must be taken to a larger commercial washer at a Laundromat. Never put your car cover in a dryer-always allow your car cover to line dry or dry on your car. Drying your car cover can cause the fabric or treatments to melt, thus ruining your cover.

Another way to clean dust from the inside or outside of the car cover is to put it on your vehicle and hose it off. To clean the inside, put the car cover on inside-out, rinse off and then leave it on to dry. To clean the outside, put the car cover on normally, rinse, and then leave it on to dry.

The most important step in car cover care is to closely follow the instructions included with your new cover. Adhering to these directions is the best way to be happy with your cover and use it for years to come.