Car covers. They’ve been a source of fierce debate amongst car lovers for years. Are they a good idea or not? Will they scratch your car? Are you better off leaving your car uncovered?
At AutoPrep, we’ve been advising our customers about the best ways to protect their paintwork for over 30 years.
That’s why we’ve put together this blog – to help you work out whether car covers are likely to protect your vehicle, cut down hassle, and, ultimately, whether they are worth your money.
Advantages to car covers
- Car covers can keep your car cleaner in between washes. Your car is exposed to lots of debris from the road and from the weather throughout the year, which is noticeably higher during changes in seasons. A car cover can help to keep your car clean, which prevents particles from etching the paint and stops rust over time.
- Car covers can protect your paintwork from minor damages. When you use the cover, your car will be safe from dings, scratches, pollen, insects, and bird droppings. This will save you time and money, and lessen the number of car washes, paint touch-ups, and polishes needed to preserve your car.
- Car covers can deter thieves. Often, vehicle covers need a lot of time to take off and put away, which can put off potential thieves that might be in a hurry. What’s more, the cover might hide any valuables that a passing thief might otherwise have been tempted by.
- Car covers can keep moisture and UV rays out.
Disadvantages to car covers
- Car covers can trap moisture next to your paintwork. Whilst they can keep the elements out, some car covers (those that are 100% waterproof) can stop moisture from getting out. This can lead to rust and other damage to your paintwork.
- Car covers can scratch your car. Especially in windy areas, your cover could rub against your car, causing damage to the paint. Covers can also pick up dirt and debris on their insides, which then rub against your paintwork, glass, and trims as you pull it on and off your car, which can lead to scratches and damage.
- It’s easy to buy the wrong size or type of car cover. Covers are only effective if you have exactly the right type and size for your particular vehicle and needs. For example, when you try to use a cover designed for use indoors and use it outside, it will not protect your vehicle the outdoor type would do. Also, a cover that’s too big can be blown off in windy weather. If the cover can move, wind can make the cover rub against your car and cause scratches.
Are car covers worth the money?
Whilst there are some downsides to using car covers, the advantages probably outweigh the disadvantages. A good-quality, properly sized car cover with straps could help to extend the life of your paintwork and protect your vehicle from the elements – and other drivers.
This means that you’re probably better off spending a little bit more to get a really good quality one than spending less on a poor quality one and then having to get your paintwork fixed.
If your paintwork is scratched, then don’t worry. Paintwork is one of our specialities at AutoPrep Repairs. To find out more, please click here.
