Car covers are an essential accessory for car owners. If you do not opt for one at the time of buying the car, you can buy it later too. It is beneficial to buy a car cover to protect the vehicle on which you have invested a lot of money. If you’re thinking of buying a car cover, you need to identify how often you use the car, where you park it, and the weather conditions in your locality as this will help narrow down your options.

Indoor covers vs outdoor covers

Indoor covers: If the car is mostly parked indoors, a light cover will suffice. A cover with a soft interior lining that will not scratch the car is best to protect the paint and glass. Cotton covers are a great choice for indoor storage as they are made of a breathable fabric. Resistance to mildew and mold are essential if the garage is cold and damp. Indoor covers are usually lighter than outdoor covers.

Outdoor covers: While selecting a cover for a car which is parked outside, keep in mind the weather conditions in the region. The cover should protect against sun, rain, and hail. If you frequently park your car outdoors, you should buy a cover with sun and UV protection. It is advisable to buy a padded cover to protect the vehicle from external damage. Outdoor car covers can be used indoors as well, but they may be bulkier to store. These covers are heavier, waterproof, and less absorbent. You only need to shake it to dry it. They may have hooks to ensure that they do not fly off during a storm.

Fit options available
Car covers generally fall into four categories in terms of the fit — universal car covers, ready-fit covers, custom car covers, and custom fit covers.

• Custom car covers are made for a specific model of car. These covers are made according to the year, make, and body type. They offer the best fit and protection and are usually sold by the car manufacturer.
• Custom fit covers can be made in the color of your choice and can be used to protect any extra fittings that you’ve installed in the car. Though they are more expensive and take time to arrive, it is worth the wait.
• Universal covers are designed in three sizes — small, medium and large and have the general shape of a car. They are more like a shower cap, and they usually have a loose fit. Universal covers are available at retail stores and are priced much lower than custom fit covers. As they are not fitted to the car, they may not always serve their intended purpose.
• Ready-fit car covers are a little advanced than universal covers as their cut depends on the type of car, like a hatchback, pickup, or van. Select a cover which suits your car, and if you have multiple cars, invest in separate covers for each model.

Remember that it is essential to invest in a good quality cover. The brand you select should be trustworthy. Also, make sure that you check the warranty offered.