What Does a Car Cover Protect You From?

Posted: September 05, 2021

A car is a significant investment, and protecting it from the elements and other external factors is crucial for maintaining its appearance, value, and performance. One of the simplest and most effective ways to safeguard your vehicle is by using a high-quality car cover. In this blog, we will explore the various dangers and risks that a car cover protects your vehicle from, ranging from environmental threats like sun and rain to more specific concerns such as dust, bird droppings, and even theft. By the end, you'll understand why investing in a car cover is an essential step in keeping your car in top condition for years to come.

Sun Damage and UV Rays

One of the most common causes of damage to a car’s exterior and interior is prolonged exposure to the sun. UV rays can cause the paint to fade, the dashboard to crack, and the seats to discolor. A car cover with UV protection can prevent these damages by blocking harmful rays and keeping your vehicle’s surface cool.

Rain, Snow, and Water Damage

Water may seem harmless, but it can cause significant damage to a car’s finish over time. Rainwater, especially when combined with pollutants, can create water spots and even lead to rust if moisture gets trapped in certain areas. Snow and ice also present a major risk to cars, as they can cause moisture build-up and lead to corrosion. A waterproof or water-resistant car cover keeps water at bay and shields your vehicle from these elements.

Dust, Dirt, and Debris

Dust and dirt might seem like minor annoyances, but over time, they can wear away at your car’s paint, especially if they are repeatedly wiped off. Tiny particles of dirt act like sandpaper, gradually dulling the car's finish. A car cover helps by creating a barrier between your car and the dust, keeping it clean and reducing the risk of paint damage.

Bird Droppings and Tree Sap

Bird droppings are highly acidic and can damage a car's paint quickly if not cleaned off. Similarly, tree sap is sticky and difficult to remove, potentially ruining the finish if left untreated. A car cover prevents these substances from making direct contact with your car, saving you the hassle of tough cleaning jobs and preventing long-term damage.

Scratches and Minor Impacts

Whether it’s caused by pedestrians brushing past your car, careless neighbors, or minor impacts from things like bicycles or shopping carts, scratches can ruin your car's appearance. A thick, durable car cover offers a layer of protection against these accidental nicks and scratches, keeping your car's surface smooth and unmarred.

Pollen and Allergens

Pollen can quickly accumulate on the surface of your car, not only making it look dirty but also triggering allergies for some people. During pollen-heavy seasons, a car cover helps by keeping these allergens off your car’s surface, so you don’t have to constantly wash or wipe your vehicle clean.

Animal Interference

Cats, squirrels, and other small animals sometimes see cars as a convenient perch or shelter. Their claws can scratch the paint, and they may leave behind dirt, fur, or other messes. A car cover keeps animals from using your car as a playground, preventing scratches and ensuring your vehicle stays clean.

Theft and Vandalism Deterrent

While not a foolproof solution, a car cover can help deter theft and vandalism. Thieves are less likely to target a car with a cover because it takes more time and effort to remove it, and it conceals what’s inside the vehicle. Similarly, vandals may be discouraged by the added layer of protection a cover provides.

Protection from Extreme Temperatures

High temperatures can cause a car’s interior to become unbearably hot, potentially damaging electronics and fading upholstery. On the other hand, extreme cold can make a car’s exterior more brittle and susceptible to damage. A car cover helps regulate the temperature, protecting your car from both extremes.

What About RV Covers? Does It Offer the Same Protection as Car Covers?

RV covers offer the same type of protection as car covers, but with additional benefits that cater specifically to the unique needs of recreational vehicles. RVs, including fifth wheel campers, travel trailers, and traditional campers, are much larger than cars and often sit outside for extended periods when not in use, exposing them to harsher environmental conditions. Fifth wheel covers, travel trailer covers, and camper covers help protect these vehicles from sun damage, rain, snow, dust, and other harmful elements, ensuring they remain in top condition during storage.

UV Protection: Just like car covers, RV covers are designed to block harmful UV rays, preventing fading and cracking of the paint, as well as protecting the interior from sun damage. Since RVs have larger windows and more expansive surfaces, UV protection becomes even more critical.
Water Resistance: Given their size, RVs are even more prone to water damage. RV covers are typically waterproof or water-resistant, designed to keep rain, snow, and moisture from accumulating on the roof and sides, where it could potentially cause leaks or rust.
Debris and Environmental Hazards: RV covers also protect from dust, bird droppings, tree sap, and falling leaves or branches, just like car covers. However, because RVs are often parked in campsites or open storage areas, they are exposed to more debris and environmental hazards, making a durable RV cover essential.
Temperature Regulation: Extreme heat and cold can affect an RV’s large interior space. RV covers help maintain a more stable interior temperature, preventing excessive heat buildup inside and reducing cold drafts during the winter.
Animal and Pest Prevention: Since RVs are sometimes parked in more rural areas, they are prone to attracting wildlife. RV covers help to prevent animals from nesting inside or on top of the vehicle, reducing the risk of damage from pests and animals.

In summary, RV covers provide the same protective benefits as car covers but are built to handle the larger size and longer outdoor exposure that RVs typically face. Investing in a quality RV cover can extend the life of your recreational vehicle just as much as a car cover does for smaller vehicles.

Conclusion

A car cover is a versatile and effective way to protect your vehicle from a wide range of potential hazards. Whether it’s shielding your car from the sun’s harmful rays, preventing scratches from debris, or keeping it safe from animal interference, a car cover can extend the life of your vehicle and keep it looking great. No matter where you live or what climate you face, investing in the right car cover is an essential part of car care. The same principles apply to RVs, and with their larger size and extended exposure to the elements, an RV cover is a must-have for any motorhome or camper owner.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Car Covers

Do I need a car cover if I park my car in a garage?

Yes, even in a garage, a car cover can protect your vehicle from dust, moisture, and accidental scratches.

Can a car cover prevent my car from overheating?

A light-colored or reflective car cover can reduce heat buildup, helping to keep the interior of your car cooler in hot weather.

Will a car cover protect my car from hail damage?

While a standard cover may not fully prevent hail damage, thicker and padded covers can offer some protection from small hailstones.

Can I use a car cover during snowstorms?

Yes, a waterproof car cover can protect your vehicle from snow and ice, preventing moisture from seeping into the paintwork or interior.

How do I clean a car cover?

Most car covers can be washed with mild soap and water. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific cleaning methods.

Do car covers damage paint?

A quality car cover should not damage your paint, but it’s important to ensure your car is clean before covering it to prevent trapped dirt from scratching the surface.

Can I put a car cover on a wet car?

It’s not recommended to put a cover on a wet car, as this can trap moisture and lead to mildew or rust. Make sure your vehicle is dry before covering.

How do I choose the right size car cover?

Check the dimensions of your car and compare them with the manufacturer’s size guide to select a cover that fits snugly without being too tight or loose.