The Ultimate Guide to the Best Outdoor Car Cover for 2024

From outdoor car covers suitable for all conditions to custom-fit covers that offer heavy-duty protection, dive into our comprehensive guide on the best car covers available online in 2024.

A car is more than just a convenient method of transportation. For some, purchasing their first car is a significant accomplishment or a sign that they've achieved a specific financial milestone. For others, swapping their current vehicle for a better model or even purchasing an additional car is also a cause for celebration.

Either way, it's undeniable that a car can often be one of your most prized possessions and should be treated as such. However, many car owners don't consider one key factor - vehicle depreciation, most often caused by damage due to weather hazards, UV rays, and consistent exposure to various particles causing scratches, dents, and color fading.

Fortunately, keeping your vehicle looking immaculate and salon-fresh doesn't require much effort or significant expenses. As a car owner, the most crucial step you need to take to keep your vehicle looking pristine is a good car cover tailored to your local environment, specific model, and vehicle size.

By choosing to invest in a good car cover that suits your storage location and individual needs, you can successfully prevent 99% of damage otherwise accumulated over time.

In this article, we'll tackle various outdoor hazards, car cover terminology, and high-quality car cover options to suit your personal requirements.

Let's dive in!

Why Cover Your Car Outdoors?

For many car owners, their vehicles are their pride and joy. As a car owner, you will often spend significant time, energy, and resources on keeping your car clean, pristine, and functioning at its full potential. But what happens when Mother Nature doesn't share your sentiments?

Whether you reside in a location renowned for its harsh climate or somewhere with moderate weather conditions, chances are that outdoor hazards will eventually take a toll on the look and functionality of your vehicle - especially when it comes to outdoor car storage. If you predominantly store your vehicle outside, an outdoor car cover is an absolute necessity.

Ideally, vehicles should be kept indoors during harsher weather conditions, but not everyone has the luxury of owning a personal garage. Moreover, multiple-car families or car connoisseurs often lack enough garage space to store all their vehicles, requiring them to store a car or two outside.

Suppose you haven't invested in an outdoor car cover yet or plan to upgrade to a better model. In that case, our team has a selection of high-quality options ready to protect your vehicle from the elements.

Before you choose the perfect outdoor car cover, let's get acquainted with some of the more common outdoor hazards.

General Weather Protection

Regardless of your location, a weather car cover is necessary for any vehicle. Mother Nature can be quite fierce when it comes to tarnishing your car and has many creative ways of doing so. Common hazards include rain, snow, hail, dust, debris, and UV rays, but they can also include minor hazards like bird droppings and tree sap.

Even if you live in a region with seemingly stable and mild weather conditions, many minor hazards might not even cross your mind initially but can lead to instant or slow damage.

Scratch and Dent Prevention

Weather isn't the only thing you should watch for when preserving your prized possession. Scratches and dents can accumulate over time, even if your neighborhood is known for its expert drivers and careful pedestrians.

You don't need someone to rear-end your car at full force to cause a dent or a scratch. Even minor disturbances like clumsy pedestrians or dust particles colliding with your exterior can damage the surface of your car, transforming it from sleek and shiny to tattered up and faded in a few weeks.

UV Protection

We all know that UV rays harm our skin, causing it to age quickly and lose its glow over time, not to mention the risk of heatstroke and other less-than-ideal consequences of staying in the sun for too long without the necessary protection.

It's safe to say that most of us don't leave the house without sunscreen and a cap (especially during the summer months), yet we don't bless our vehicles with the same careful treatment. Although it may come as a surprise, UV rays are just as capable of aging your cars as your skin.

Yes, that's correct. Exposure to direct sun and UV rays can lead to many automobile-related issues, including dashboard malfunction, coating deterioration, and upholstery damage. Thankfully, a UV ray-resistant car cover offers more than enough protection from the largest star in our solar system.

Security Purposes

A good car alarm system is an excellent way to keep criminals at bay - if they consider your alarm system in the first place.

Sure, a powerful alarm system is excellent at deterring criminals who attempt to break into your car, but not all criminals are deterred by this. Additionally, not all automobile owners will have an immediate response to their car alarm ringing in the middle of the night, and some people are fast runners - if you catch our drift.

Think of outdoor covers as an extra layer of security or a psychological break-in deterrent. This is due to several reasons:

1. Removing a car cover takes additional time, especially one tailored to fit your car.
2. A car cover hides the model and subsequent value of your vehicle.
3. A car cover also hides any valuable possessions inside the vehicle.
4. It increases the risk of being caught, which few car thieves are willing to risk.

Although you may be an expert at installing and removing your car cover, people unfamiliar with your specific choice may find themselves flustered at having to complete an extra step, and thieves are no exception.

Value Maintenance

Although you may not plan on selling your vehicle anytime soon (especially if it's a new purchase), the time may come when you decide to upgrade to a better model, relocate to another country, or experience any other significant life changes. Sure, you might not think this section applies to you, but you'd be surprised how many customers contact us monthly, expressing regret for not considering resale value sooner.

Whether you decide to sell your vehicle in the future or not, value maintenance is an equally important aspect as the others mentioned above- if not for anyone else, then at least for yourself. After all, who wouldn't want to commute in an automobile that looks just as good as it did upon purchase? It makes you look reliable, clean, and put-together - all highly valued societal qualities.

Defining Our Terminology

Now that you're familiar with some of the most common hazards capable of damaging your car outdoors, it's time to move on to car cover terminology. If this is your first time learning about car covers, some of these terms may seem unfamiliar. Don't worry - we've provided detailed definitions for each term mentioned on our list.

Learning these terms will help you choose the best outdoor car cover for your vehicle and make an informed decision based on the specific qualities you want your cover to have.

Waterproof

Waterproof vehicle covers are specifically designed to withstand highly damp climates. Weather conditions can range from light rain to intense showers to general humidity. Compared to water-resistant covers, which are further detailed below, waterproof covers are crafted to repel moisture and dry quickly. They are usually made from durable car cover fabrics like polypropylene or vinyl.

Weatherproof

Weatherproof car covers encompass a wider variety of weather conditions besides water and offer general protection against all elements. Such vehicle covers are designed to withstand various weather conditions, including, but not limited to, moisture, UV rays, wind abrasion, and airborne particles. An excellent choice for general protection, weatherproof car covers are always in high demand.

Breathable

A breathable vehicle cover is designed to protect from moisture buildup on the car's surface. Often the first choice for car owners residing in humid climates, breathable covers effectively prevent moisture buildup, reducing the risk of mildew formation and mold. Breathable covers are also an excellent choice for automobile owners planning to cover their cars for extended periods.

UV Resistant

Ideal for sunnier climates, UV-resistant car covers are designed to prevent harmful sunlight exposure and keep the exterior layer and interior of your car safe from UV light. Depending on the car cover fabrics used, UV-resistant car covers can either reduce or completely block harmful UV rays from damaging your vehicle, preventing your paint job from fading and keeping your interior equipment safe from malfunctioning.

Likewise, most UV-resistant car covers use reflective color and fabric options to ensure the vehicle doesn't overheat internally, which is perfect for scorching summers or high-altitude regions.

Dustproof

Dustproof car covers are ideal for desert climates, construction-heavy areas, or any other environments with considerable dust and debris flying around. These car covers stop dust and other airborne particles from accumulating on your exterior and prevent debris damage to the paint coating and reflective surfaces.

Dustproof car covers are also an excellent choice for keeping your car windows and mirrors clear, reducing the risk of potential accidents due to reduced visibility.

Scratch Resistant

Like indoor covers, outdoor car covers are designed to protect the car's paint finish from scratches and abrasions. They feature durable outer materials that provide additional protection against potential scratches from debris, branches, or other outdoor hazards - including those clumsy pedestrians we mentioned above.

Water Resistant

Unlike fully waterproof car covers, a water-resistant car cover is a sensible choice for milder climates with occasional light rainfall or medium humidity. Water-resistant vehicle covers are ideal yet affordable options for car owners looking to protect their vehicles from milder weather hazards while also being thin enough to prevent trapped moisture.

Custom Fit

Custom-fit covers are your go-to car cover choice if you live in a windy area. Such outdoor car covers are tailored to fit your car's make, model, and year. These covers provide a snug and precise fit, covering the entire car surface without excess material or gaps. A custom-fit cover ensures maximum coverage and protection while minimizing any potential for movement or disfiguration due to pesky high winds.

All Weather Car Cover

If you're looking to obtain the highest level of protection from all possible hazards, an all-weather car cover is an excellent investment for your prized possession. These are the best car covers for all weather conditions, simultaneously protecting your automobile from several hazards. All-weather car covers usually incorporate several layers into the item's base, guaranteeing maximum protection.

Even in the case of an unplanned apocalypse, rest assured that your car will be ready to go.

The Best Outdoor Car Covers in 2024

If you've made it this far, congratulations! You are one step away from ordering a premium and affordable outdoor car cover that will keep your car looking spick and span. At UnitedCovers.com, we've got you and your vehicle securely covered.

For over 25 years, our loyal team of automobile enthusiasts has been catering to car owners across the country. Car Cover is dedicated to providing the best outdoor car cover options on the market while educating our readers on which items to choose according to their individual needs and expectations.

As the automobile industry continues to expand, newer, better, and more innovative car covers enter the market. Thankfully, for our business and our loyal customers, we're never behind on the best materials and designs available, offering only the most popular products on the market.

That being said, we have an excellent selection of only the best outdoor car covers, suitable for various climates and weather conditions. Below, we've detailed two winners that always hit the jackpot with our customers.

Our Top Pick: The Gold Shield 5L Car Cover

Type: Outdoor/Indoor

Warranty: Lifetime Warranty

Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Summary: The Gold Shield 5L offers the maximum level of protection from all weather hazards, including heavy rain, snowstorms, hailstorms, ice, UV rays, airborne particles, and even hailstorms.

Guaranteed to fit your car like a glove while also providing the necessary level of breathability to scare away even the moldiest of molds, the Gold Shield is a winner.

Accessories: This model comes with a free cable lock, antenna patch, and storage bag. Shipping is free.

Product Details

Our team likes to refer to this option as the gold standard for all car covers, making our product name choice self-explanatory. The Gold Shield 5L is an all-purpose cover, providing powerful protection from even the most intense weather conditions, such as heavy rainfall, blizzards, heavy snowfall, ice, UV exposure, dust, debris, high winds, and the clumsiest of pedestrians.

Alongside its all-weather properties, the Gold Shield 5L is carefully crafted using our standard outdoor cover combination: two robust Polypropylene PLUS layers and microporous film for maximum breathability. In addition to the layers mentioned, this cover includes an additional layer of Polypropylene PLUS and a soft fleece innermost lining for optimum paint job preservation.

Durable, 100% waterproof, water-resistant, and custom fit, you can't go wrong with the Gold Shield 5L. And if you're worried about the thickness of the material causing moisture buildup or mold, rest assured that the microporous film layer will prevent that from happening.

This model has undergone intensive testing to ensure complete protection against even the most aggressive elements and airborne particles. Mother nature may not be kind to your vehicle, but the Gold Shield 5L certainly is.

A genuine (potential) apocalypse survivor, this car cover will meet the expectations of even the most demanding automobile owners in the country.

Key Takeaways

• This model is made from durable material and has the ideal thickness to ensure protection externally and internally.
• It is designed with high-quality fabric, ensuring this car cover withstands outdoor disturbances without tearing, thinning, or deformation.
• It includes a soft layer for effective paint job preservation.
• The cover is easy to install, allowing you to take the cover on and off in seconds.
• It also doubles as an indoor car cover.
• The model includes a lifetime warranty for extra security.

Runner-Up: The Silver Shield 3L Car Cover

Type: Outdoor/Indoor

Warranty: 5-Year Warranty

Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Summary: Pay no mind to the absence of the fifth star - the only reason we've decided to deduct it is because this model is slightly thinner compared to the Gold Shield 5L. Suppose you and your vehicle are not faced with extreme weather conditions daily. In that case, the Silver Shield 3L is an excellent and affordable outdoor car cover option, providing maximum protection from outdoor hazards.

Lightweight, easy to install, and crafted from 100% breathable material, the Silver Shield 3L will cover you and your prized possession all year round.

Accessories: This model comes with a free antenna patch and a free storage bag. Shipping is free.

Product Details

The Silver Shield 3L is a slightly lighter yet durable outdoor car cover that protects against weather hazards and other outdoor disturbances. Crafted from three layers of high-quality, durable material, this car cover option will protect your vehicle from rain, moderate snow, light hail, dust, debris, and UV exposure.

Materials used include a microporous film and two layers of Polypropylene PLUS, ensuring protection from common weather hazards and debris damage while providing maximum breathability. This way, your car stays protected from the great outdoors while avoiding moisture buildup and mold.

Likewise, the Silver Shield 3L is water resistant, ensuring your vehicle remains nice and dry in moderately wet conditions. Installation is simple, allowing you to make the most of this lighter outdoor model without additional hassle.

Key Takeaways

• This model is an excellent lightweight option for complete protection against common weather hazards and UV rays.
• It's made from 3 layers of breathable, flexible material, allowing for protection against moisture buildup, mildew, mold, and rotting.
• It's perfect for taking with you on the go, including road trips and cross-country travel.
• The Silver Shield also doubles as an indoor car cover.
• It includes a 5-year warranty.

Verdict

A car cover is an absolute must when purchasing a car and maintaining its appearance and value! Whether you plan on storing your car indoors or outdoors for extended periods, some protection is an absolute must. However, when it comes to the great outdoors, choosing a car cover that offers the necessary level of protection from environmental hazards while providing maximum breathability can seem like a chore.

Luckily, the Gold Shield 5L and Silver Shield 3L car covers detailed above are all-inclusive models. These covers allow maximum protection from the elements and other outdoor hazards while ensuring 100% breathability for mildew and mold prevention.

Moreover, each car cover in our store is designed with individual car models, makes, and sizes in mind, allowing it to fit the shape and size of your vehicle ideally. Additionally, we have incorporated an elastic hem, taped seams, buckles, and straps underneath the cover to guarantee a perfect fit.

Remember: an automobile isn't just a convenient transportation option. It's an investment that requires care and maintenance. A scratched-up vehicle with a faded paint job is guaranteed to leave a less-than-desirable first impression and reflects poorly on your personal qualities. On the other hand, driving a car in tip-top shape is bound to open many professional and personal doors in your life.

That being said, now is the perfect time to invest in a durable and high-quality outdoor car cover.

Ready to make your purchase?

FAQs

Why do I need an outdoor car cover?

You need an outdoor car cover for several reasons.

First, even the mildest weather conditions can damage your car's paint coat, windshield, and windows, adding to additional repair costs over time. Don't even get us started on the immediate and considerable damage heavy rainfall, snow storms, high winds, and hail can cause.

Likewise, continuous UV exposure also poses a threat to your vehicle's appearance and functionality, causing color fade, upholstery damage, and potentially dashboard malfunction.

Aside from weather hazards, storing or parking your car outdoors exposes it to other elements, including bird droppings, tree sap, dust, and debris - all of which can cause surface damage and scratches to your paint coat, windshield, and windows.

Depending on your location, your car may also be exposed to other hazards, such as pedestrians bumping into or scratching it, animals climbing on top of it, and more.

Do I need to cover my car in mild weather conditions?

Of course! Even seemingly mild weather conditions, such as light rainfall, occasional wind, and dust, contribute to the deterioration of your vehicle. Not to mention that some degree of UV exposure will always be present when storing your car outdoors.

Regardless of how light the weather conditions may seem, they still cause more than enough damage, especially when tracked over time. As we like to say, better safe than sorry. If you plan to store your car outside for extended periods, we strongly recommend investing in a durable, waterproof, or water-resistant car cover.

What are the main differences beteween the Gold Shield 5L and the Silver Shield 3L?

Both the Gold Shield 5L and the Silver Shield 3L are excellent outdoor car cover choices. However, there are some nuances regarding the features of each item.

While the Gold Shield is designed with five layers for extra protection from extreme weather conditions, the Silver Shield incorporates two layers of Polypropylene PLUS and microporous film for lighter coverage.

The Silver Shield is also lighter than the Gold, making it an excellent option for moderate weather conditions and travel purposes.

How do I choose the best car cover for outdoors?

To choose the best outdoor car cover for your vehicle, you need to pay attention to the following factors:

The weather conditions in your area: Are they mild, moderate, or severe? Understanding local weather hazards will help you determine your cover's required durability and thickness.

What features are you looking for: Waterproof, water-resistant, reflective color for enhanced UV protection, custom-fit or standard, etc.?

The price: Opting for a car cover that is affordable but also does the job.

Delivery options: Whether your chosen item can be delivered directly to your location, delivery costs, additional accessories, etc.

Warranty: We ensure that you have a reliable warranty in case of unforeseen circumstances, but not all car cover sellers do so.

How do I install an outdoor car cover?

Once you've chosen your outdoor car cover and had it delivered to your location, the final step is installation. Most car covers, including those available in our store, are relatively easy to install and remove. It's usually a one-person job.

Simply follow these steps:

1. Lay the cover flat on the ground next to your car. Unfold it and identify the front and rear ends.
2. Drape the cover over your vehicle, ensuring that each side of the cover aligns with your car, and center it.
3. Secure the cover using the straps and buckles. Attach any straps or elasticized hems under the bumpers or wheel wells, ensuring the cover is secured.
4. Smooth any folds and flatten wrinkles to prevent dust accumulation and moisture buildup.
5. Carry out a final check to ensure the cover is fully secured, fits snugly, and perfectly aligns with your car.