Cheap car covers are often more trouble than trying to save a few dollars. When it comes to shielding your vehicle from the elements when parked outside, sometimes it can be a real headache. And we’re not talking about the effort it takes to cover and uncover a vehicle.

　　A variety of challenges are faced by car owners. The suns UV rays can wreak havoc on your paint and interior. Theres a risk of a strong gust of wind lifting your car cover like a sail. Or the potential for moisture to become trapped underneath.

　　Check it out — using a car cover is marvelous for several reasons. Theyre a breeze to put on and remove, keeping your car scratch- and dent-free. Theyre a lifesaver during allergy season, keeping pollen and dust at bay. Most importantly, they protect your investment, ensuring your car stays in prime form.

　　Here, we tested a range of covers to narrow down our favorites for cars and trucks, and all are under $200. To learn more about car covers and a more in-depth analysis of how they can vary, check out our comprehensive buying guide, FAQ, and comparison chart below.

　　The Best Car Covers of 2024 Best Overall Car Cover: Motor Trend T-850 Best Budget Car Cover: Kayme 6-Layer Best Premium Car Cover: Coverking Silverguard Best Overall Car Cover Motor Trend T-850 Specs Layers 3 heavy-duty layers with a soft lining Waterproof Yes Mirror pockets No Storage bag Yes

　　Pros Custom-fit for year/make/model A breathable outer layer allows moisture to escape Cons Heavy construction makes it cumbersome to cover and remove Grommet for cable lock unprotected Derek Mau Odds are you have your pride and joy parked on the driveway or in the garage. However, left uncovered and unprotected, that sparkling ride will fade fast from the sun, exposure to the elements, or possibly picking up a small ding or scratch — even when parked safely inside the garage. Investing in the right truck or car cover is the right move and will save you from future agony. The Motor Trend T-850 ($84) truck cover carries name recognition and stays true to its automotive roots with the right features anyone would seek in light protection. 

　　The truck cover’s heavy construction makes it cumbersome to drape over and remove after pulling it from the storage bag, which uses the same material as the cover. We purchased a T-850 for a 2008 Honda Ridgeline (1st generation) and discovered that folding in the side mirrors helps with fitment since mirror side pockets are absent. The elastic hem is snug and grabs the bumpers tightly. On gusty days, we took the precaution of securing it with the attached underbody straps.

　　Grommets for the cable lock are exposed. Typically, it is not a big issue since the possibility of leaving a mark would likely occur on the undercarriage or somewhere where it would go unnoticed. Nicer covers, such as the Coverking, will sew a piece of material on the underside as a preventive measure against potential scuffs.

　　Wrapping a cover over a truck or any vehicle has its challenges. Thankfully, the cover has the Motor Trend name stamped on the front end for quick orientation. Fitment isn’t perfect because this cover will fit over the first-generation and second-generation Ridgeline. Since the second gen has different angles and is four inches longer and almost an inch wider, the cover-up of our 2008 model wasn’t perfect.

　　This T-850 truck cover gets high marks for water resistance. Rainwater did not leak through in the low areas where the cover drops into the truck bed. More importantly, we didn’t detect condensation build-up anywhere due to the truck cover’s ability to breathe and allow moisture to evaporate.

　　We’ve been using the Motor Trend T-850 truck cover on and off for about three months, and it has retained its shape so far. Many low-cost car covers start showing signs of age when you see fading, water seepage, and overall fit getting looser and looser. 

　　In short, the Motor Trend T-850 car cover offers reliable protection for your vehicle, helping to prevent sun damage, exposure to the elements, and potential scratches. While it may require folding in side mirrors for a perfect fit, the cover’s snug elastic hem and straps help secure it, even on windy days. Its water resistance and ability to prevent condensation buildup are notable features. After three months of use, it has maintained its shape and performance, making it a worthwhile investment for preserving your vehicle’s appearance and condition.

　　$84 at Amazon Best Budget Car Cover Kayme 6-Layer Truck Cover Specs Layers 6 Waterproof Yes Mirror pockets No Storage bag Yes

　　Pros Driver side zipper allows for easy access The lining feels soft and friendly to the paint finish Outstanding protection against rain and snow The light weight makes it easy for one person to cover and uncover a truck Cons Rainwater will pool in the truck bed if it doesn’t have a soft or hard cover Storage bag is poor quality Derek Mau We purchased a Kayme 6-Layer Truck Cover ($67) to protect an older Ford F-250 that doesn’t get driven much. In the past, the owner has used other truck covers to help slow down the aging process of being outside all the time. Comparatively, the Kayme’s multi-layer construction is about mid-range in quality. The material feels better than a low-cost truck cover but doesn’t match up to a premium brand. 

　　This designs bright silver finish is highly reflective in the sun, while the cotton lining feels soft. The six layers are bonded together and don’t add up to too much weight. Removal and folding it up were easy tasks. For example, we liked how easy it was to move it around and get it tucked under the bumpers. 

　　The fitment is pretty snug, and we were confident it would stay on the truck on those gusty days. For added security, the Kayme truck cover has front and rear underbody straps and buckles if you’re fearful of having it blow away.

　　Fortunately, Idaho had some rain and snow pass through the state this spring. We noted that the truck cover sheds water wonderfully but had to tent the truck bed portion to prevent water from pooling. 

　　To sum it up, the Kayme 6-Layer Truck Cover offers mid-range quality protection for a budget-friendly price. While not as premium as some brands, its multi-layer construction provides better durability and protection than low-cost options. The truck covers reflective silver finish and soft cotton lining add to its appeal, and the snug fit, along with the underbody straps and buckles, ensure it stays secure even on windy days. Its ability to shed water effectively is a plus, although some tenting may be needed to prevent pooling in the truck bed portion. Overall, the Kayme truck cover is a solid choice for protecting your vehicle from the elements.

　　$83 at Amazon Best Premium Car Cover Coverking Silverguard Specs Layers 2 Waterproof No, but it’s water resistant Mirror pockets Yes Storage bag Yes

　　Pros Strong, heavy weave of 300 denier polyester will not rip or tear Highly breathable fabric prevents the build-up of moisture under the cover The custom-fit design includes mirror pockets 100% UV protection Cons Ideal for mild temperate climates (not intended for extreme weather) Derek Mau We got the Coverking Silverguard ($155) cover for a 2006 Subaru Outback. It is custom-fitted and sized perfectly with mirror pockets. The lightweight construction made it simple to slip on and remove the cover.

　　The outer layer is reflective silver, designed to block damaging UV rays from the sun. A Coverking logo helps identify the front end when unrolling the cover. A labeled tag sewn in the lining also marks the front as an added measure.

　　No signs of condensation build-up under the cover were detected during a relatively short test period of three weeks. During this period, Idaho received a whole gamut of weather systems: multiple days of rain, a couple of inches of snow, a quick barrage of hail the size of quarters, high winds, and a few sunny days interspersed in between. 

　　One thoughtful detail we liked is the covered grommets on the underside of the car cover, which prevents abrasions from the hard plastic. The double-stitched, overlapping seams, sewn with wax-coated thread, add to the cover’s water resistance.

　　Two layers of protection mean it will dry out quickly. However, we don’t recommend using the Silverguard in extreme weather. Extended exposure might break down the materials and shorten the cover’s service life.

　　We were happy overall with the Coverking Silverguard, a well-designed and practical car cover for moderate weather conditions. It fits well, is lightweight, and offers excellent protection against UV rays. The mirror pockets, labels that identify the front, and covered grommets add to its appeal. Best of all, it comes with a three-year warranty.

　　$155 at Amazon Best of the Rest EzyShade 10-Layer All-Weather Car Cover Specs Layers 10 Waterproof Yes Mirror pockets Yes Storage bag Yes

　　Pros Zipper access to the driver’s side door Reinforced grommet holes for cable lock Single buckle and strap to hold down cover in windy conditions 100% UV protection Cons Fit based on vehicle size, not custom fitted to year/make/model Derek Mau For a range of conditions, the EzyShade 10-Layer All-Weather Car Cover ($66) is designed to be a sturdy option for windy days and keep your vehicle cool in the heat. It features a multi-layer design with ten layers of bonded fabric, heavy-duty stitching, and elastic edges. The soft underlayer protects your paint finish from micro-scratches that can dull its appearance.

　　Picking the correct fitment requires identifying the type of vehicle and knowing its dimensions. In this case, we used the EzyShade car cover to protect a 2012 VW GTI. Coverage isn’t 100%, but the sides were fully covered with a tiny bit of the lower rear valence left uncovered. For added security, it also has three straps and buckles to prevent it from blowing away unexpectedly.

　　Even with a custom-fitted cover, putting it on or removing it can be challenging in gusty winds. Thats why the EzyShade car cover includes mirror pockets to help hold it in place until it is fully secured. Plus, it is particularly useful for vehicles with slippery waxed surfaces or people with short reach. 

　　The zippered door panel makes access a breeze if you need to grab something from the cabin. The zipper action isn’t the smoothest, but it is lined on the inside to avoid scratches.

　　All in all, the EzyShade 10-Layer All-Weather Car Cover offers secure protection for windy days, and the reflective surface helps keep your vehicle cool. The multi-layer design and elastic edges ensure durability, though the fit is less snug than a custom cover. Three straps and buckles add security, and mirror pockets help hold it in place. Overall, its a reliable option for protecting your vehicle.

　　$56 at Amazon Tecoom YL 8-Layers Specs Layers 8 Waterproof Yes Mirror pockets Yes Storage bag Yes

　　Pros Zipper access to the driver’s side door Reinforced grommet holes for cable lock Thick, soft inner liner 100% UV protection Cons Fit based on vehicle dimensions, not custom fitted to year/make/model The included cable and padlock are easily defeatable Underbody straps line up with wheels Derek Mau When the coverage of the sides and doors is 100%, we know our rig is going to be tucked in well. The Tecoom YL 8-Layers ($59) is a standout choice for protecting your vehicle from the elements. Its multi-layer construction provides superior protection, making it ideal for all seasons. The covers high-quality materials ensure durability and longevity, offering peace of mind for your investment.

　　One of the standout features of the Tecoom cover is its excellent coverage. The vehicle type and dimensions will determine fitment based on the sizing chart. For review purposes, we purchased a car cover for a 2023 Toyota RAV4 hybrid. Our cover fits snugly, providing nearly complete coverage and protection. Only a small portion of the rear valence panel didn’t get covered. 

　　An elastic hem ensures a tight fit, while the included straps and buckles add an extra layer of security, keeping the cover in place even in windy conditions. However, the straps lined up with wheels, making usage awkward. Effectively, the straps had to go around the tires or through the wheel slots to use them.

　　Boasting several convenient features, this cover has mirror pockets for a custom fit, a storage bag for easy storage when not in use, and two straps plus grommets for a cable/lock. The bright reflective color enhances visibility, while the side zipper provides easy access to the drivers side door.

　　The Tecoom YL 8-Layers feels nicely padded for added protection, but the added weight can make it cumbersome to put on or remove. However, this is a minor inconvenience compared to the superior protection and durability offered by the Tecoom all-weather 8-layer car cover. Overall, it is a top-of-the-line choice for anyone looking to protect their vehicle.

　　$59 at Amazon

　　The Coverking Silverguard is custom fit for a Subaru Outback; (photo/Derek Mau) Car Covers Comparison Chart Scroll right to view all of the columns: Price, Layers, Waterproof, Mirror pockets, Storage bag.

　　Labels like those on the Coverking Silverguard can help efficiently pull on a car cover; (photo/Derek Mau) How We Tested Car Covers Testing car and truck covers involves checking several essential aspects to ensure the design meets your precious steeds needs. When evaluating the numerous choices available we consider the fit, material quality, waterproofness, breathability, UV protection, ease of use, storage, and bonus features.

　　Fit: Ensure the cover fits your car correctly. It should cover the entire vehicle without being too loose or too tight. Material Quality: The material is examined for durability and weather resistance. It should withstand rain, sun exposure, and other environmental factors. Waterproofing: We tested the covers waterproofing by spraying it with water and checking whether it beads and rolls off the fabric. We also checked to see if water soaked through after a rainy day. Breathability: Allowing air circulation to prevent moisture and condensation buildup is crucial since it can lead to mold and mildew problems. UV Protection: Protection against UV rays is vital to prevent fading and damage to your cars paint. Ease of Use: The car cover is installed and removed to see how easy it is to use. It should be convenient to put on and take off. Storage: Does the cover come with a storage bag for easy storage when not in use? Additional Features: Details such as mirror pockets, patches to reinforce antenna holes, and markers identifying the front end enhance the car cover’s practicality. Our automotive specialist and lead tester of this buyers guide, Derek Mau, curated the collection: This busy guy knows all about detailing, paint correction, and keeping a car looking its best. A regular work day for Derek involves testing almost anything on four wheels, obsessively researching and shopping for the best deal, and writing detailed and informative reviews of all things automotive for GearJunkie.

　　This guide includes various truck and car covers for numerous applications, from light-duty to all-weather protection. We discuss several choices of covers that provide safe, reliable protection for a car, truck, SUV, or crossover.

　　Most custom-fit car covers have mirror pockets; (photo/Derek Mau) Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Car Covers Car and truck covers come in a wide range of quality, design details, and price points. So youll want to make sure you pick the balance thats right for you.

　　When choosing between an indoor and outdoor car cover, consider where you park your car and your specific needs.

　　The interior of the Coverking Silverguard car cover; (photo/Derek Mau) If youre on the fence about investing in a cover, here are a few incentives to consider:

　　Benefits of Car Covers Protection from the elements: A car cover shields your vehicle from rain, snow, hail, UV rays, and other weather-related damage, helping to preserve its exterior finish. Prevention of scratches and dings: A cover acts as a barrier against scratches, dings, and other minor damage caused by debris, branches, or accidental bumps. Deterrence of theft and vandalism: A cover can make your vehicle less appealing to thieves and vandals, as it conceals the vehicles appearance and adds an extra layer of protection. Preservation of interior: A car cover helps prevent fading, cracking, and other damage to your interior surfaces by blocking UV rays and reducing interior temperature fluctuations. Saves money: Investing in a car cover can help you save money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent car washes, paint touch-ups, and other maintenance expenses. Convenience: Using a car cover eliminates the need to constantly clean your vehicle, especially in dusty or outdoor storage environments. Maintains resale value: A car cover helps maintain your vehicles overall condition by protecting its exterior and interior, which can positively impact its resale value.

　　We tested the EzyShade 10-Layer All-Weather Car Cover; (photo/Derek Mau) Indoor Car Covers Indoor truck and car covers are essential for protecting your prestige or classic collector’s car. They prevent dust, pollen, dirt, and small dings from building up, keeping your vehicle clean and safe from everyday wear and tear.

　　Heres why you should use them:

　　Protection: Protects against dust, dirt, and minor scratches. Benefits: Keeps your car clean and protects it from scratches in a garage or storage unit. Material: Typically made from lightweight, breathable fabrics like polyester or microfiber so moisture doesn’t get trapped underneath the cover. We like the Kayme 6-Layer, because of the extra padding that does an excellent job of cushioning against potential dings.

　　In summary, an indoor cover is sufficient if you park your car indoors and mainly want to protect it from dust and minor scratches.

　　A zipper-enclosed door flap helps you enter the vehicle with the EzyShade 10-Layer All-Weather Car Cover on; (photo/Derek Mau) Outdoor Car Covers Outdoor truck and car covers protect your cars exterior from harsh weather conditions, bird droppings, tree sap, and more.

　　Material: Outdoor car covers typically use heavier, more durable materials like polypropylene, polyester blends, or vinyl. Protection: Defends against scratches, dents, or other physical abuse. Weather Resistance: Designed to withstand extreme or mild outdoor conditions and offer UV protection. Breathability: Outdoor covers must be breathable to prevent moisture buildup, while indoor covers can be more lightweight and breathable. For instance, the Motor Trend T-850 waterproof truck cover does a great job of fending off the elements and having a breathable design to avoid trapping moisture underneath.

　　An outdoor truck or car cover is better if you park outdoors and need protection from the elements, including UV rays and rain.

　　Reflective fabric on a car cover can help highlight exterior features to increase visibility like on the mirror pockets; (photo/Derek Mau) Choosing the Right Car Cover for Your Vehicle When shopping for a car cover, consider the following factors to ensure you get the right one for your vehicle:

　　Size and Fit Choose a cover designed to fit your specific make and vehicle model. A good fit will provide better protection and prevent the cover from flapping in the wind. For example, the Coverking Silverguard custom-fit cover cloaked every inch of our Subaru Outback.

　　The Motor Trend T-850 was one of our tested and favorite car covers; (photo/Derek Mau) Material Type Look for a cover made from breathable, waterproof, and UV-resistant material. Polyester or polypropylene are often used for car covers due to their durability and weather-resistant properties.

　　Weather Protection Consider the weather conditions in your area and choose a cover that offers the appropriate level of protection. For example, a waterproof cover is essential if you live in a wet climate.

　　We tested the Motor Trend T-850 car cover on a Honda Ridgeline; (photo/Derek Mau) Softness Ensure that the inner side of the cover is soft to prevent scratching the cars paint.

　　Security Features Look for covers with tie-down straps, elastic hems, or built-in locks to secure them and prevent them from being blown away or stolen.

　　The Motor Trend T-850 includes a storage bag for transport and storage; (photo/Derek Mau) Storage Choose a cover with a storage bag for easy storage when not in use.

　　Budget Set a budget and look for covers that offer the best features within your price range.

　　Warranty Check if the cover has a warranty to ensure quality and protection for your purchase.

　　Albeit bulky, car covers are relatively malleable and you can find a place to store the cover in your vehicle compartments; (photo/Derek Mau) Why Truck and Car Covers Offer Good Protection Truck and car covers are essential for protecting your prestige or classic collector’s car. They prevent dust, pollen, dirt, and small dings from building up, keeping your vehicle clean and safe from everyday wear and tear. Heres why you should use them:

　　Prevent Pollen, Dust, and Dirt Build-up Car covers protect your vehicle from micro scratches caused by dust and pollen. They also prevent moisture and dirt accumulation, which can lead to rusting.

　　We tested the Tecoom YL 8-Layers on a Toyota RAV4 hybrid; (photo/Derek Mau) Protect from Scratches and Dents Made from high-quality materials, truck and car covers shield your vehicle from scratches and dents caused by pets or children. They also keep pollen and dust out of the interior.

　　Keep Your Car Cool in Summer Car covers help maintain a cool interior by reflecting heat away from the bodywork. They also prevent condensation on windows and protect the cars interior from UV rays. The Tecoom YL 8-Layers car cover has a bright and reflective coating and offers terrific defense against the sun’s damaging UV rays.

　　The interior of the Tecoom YL 8-Layers is nicely padded and grommets are available for a cable/lock or rope for extra security; (photo/Derek Mau) Protect from Pet Scratches Car covers are a must if your pets like to lounge on your car. They prevent scratches, hair, dander, and dirt from damaging your vehicles exterior.

　　Protect Your Investment Truck and car covers protect your car from scratches, dents, and other damage, ensuring it stays in top condition for years.

　　Buckled straps on the Tecoom YL 8-Layers can be threaded through the wheel for extra security during wind events; (photo/Derek Mau) Checklist When Shopping for Car Covers Choosing the best material for your car cover is imperative because a poor choice can cause damage. So, which materials are ideal for car covers?

　　Look for materials that can withstand the weather where you live, like waterproof and UV-resistant fabrics. Youll also want a soft liner to prevent scratching your paint job.

　　If youre in a windy area, check for covers with elastic hems and tie-down straps to keep them secure. Some covers even have grommets for cable locks if security is a concern. To point, the EzyShade 10-Layer All-Weather Car Cover is ready with two tie-down straps, grommeted holes placed mid-section, and elastic hems at the front and rear.

　　Remember about storage! A cover with a storage bag is easier to stash away when not in use.

　　Lastly, check the warranties. They can give you peace of mind and ensure youre getting a quality product.

　　The zippered door on the Tecoom YL 8-Layers car cover has a storm flap to protect the zipper and help prevent moisture from entering; (photo/Derek Mau) FAQ What is the best material to cover a car with? The best material for covering a car depends on your specific needs and the climate where you live. Here are some common materials used for car covers:

　　Polyester: A popular choice for indoor car covers due to its softness and breathability. It’s also lightweight and easy to handle. Polyester blend: Polyester with other materials like acrylic or cotton can enhance durability and water resistance. Polypropylene: Ideal for outdoor use as it’s water-resistant and provides good protection against UV rays. Nylon: Delivers good protection against moisture and is lightweight, making it easy to handle. Microfiber: Provides excellent protection against dust and scratches, making it ideal for indoor use. Vinyl: Offers heavy-duty protection against water and UV rays but may not be as breathable as other materials. Multi-Layer: Covers with multiple layers of different materials offer superior protection against various elements.

　　Protecting an open truck bed with the Kayme 6-Layer Truck Cover is a great perk of an outdoor car cover; (photo/Derek Mau) What are the disadvantages of car covers? Using a car cover can have some disadvantages, depending on a few specific circumstances:

　　It could scratch the car’s paint if the inside layer is not clean or the vehicle sits in an excessively dusty environment. Car covers that do not breathe properly may trap moisture and cause mold or mildew damage, especially if poorly fitted or used during extended periods of rain. Putting on and taking off a cover can be time-consuming and inconvenient, especially if you need to use your car frequently. In windy conditions, car covers can flap against the surface, potentially causing micro scratches or visible paint damage. Is it worth getting a car cover? Absolutely. Prolonged sun and UV exposure will damage your vehicle’s paint, seats and dash more than virtually any other element. A car cover is essential to preserve the value and condition of your vehicle.

　　The EzyShade 10-Layer All-Weather Car Cover had bright, wide reflective markings on the tail and head lights and rearview mirrors; (photo/Derek Mau) Is a tarp better than a car cover? Tarps will not protect your vehicle and may cause more harm than good. Car covers, on the other hand, will guard your car against weather, dust and debris, UV rays, and minor damage. Car covers come in several variations to suit specific purposes. A tarp is flexible and water-resistant, but it doesn’t protect against UV damage caused by the sun. Nor does it have the breathability to allow moisture to escape. More importantly, tarps don’t have a soft liner that won’t scratch the paint.

　　The Tecoom YL 8-Layers has reflective seams; (photo/Derek Mau)

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