Should I Use A Car Cover In The Winter?

Last Updated on October 22, 2021 by Ron Buckley

Winter is harsh on cars, especially for the ones parked outside. Are you worried about the damage the cold can do? Have you thought about using a car cover? I know that this something people disagree on, so let’s set things straight. Should I use a car cover in the winter?

Car covers can be used in winter both inside and outside. The cover can protect the paint from snow, UV, rain, and dust damage. Incorrect applications of car covers can cause more damage though. A car cover is bad in the winter when not used properly.

This is a bit vague. I will explain everything thoroughly in this guide.

Why Use A Car Cover

Now, covers are not specifically made for winter, they should be used all year round. Whether you are keeping your vehicle outside or inside, you need a quality car cover.

During the summer, the UV rays get too strong, and we all know how that is dangerous for the paint job. During the spring and the fall, leaves and dust particles are everywhere. During the winter season, the temperatures go below freezing and there is heavy snow. All of this is bad for the paint job.

So, a car cover gives that extra layer of protection. Throughout the year, a car that is parked outside is susceptible to all kinds of damage. A car cover solves that.

Car covers are needed for garaged vehicles too. Although the car is safe from the weather, dust accumulates. An indoor car cover serves for dust protection.

Types Of Car Covers

The most important thing to know is the types of car covers. There are two types of car covers; an outdoor car cover and an indoor car cover.

The names say it all. An outdoor model for cars that are parked outside. An indoor model designed for garaged vehicles.

Outdoor Car Covers

Designed for outdoor storage. These can offer multiple layers of protection. Each layer of protection is designed for specific weather conditions.

Not all outdoor covers are the same though, it depends on the model. Some are designed for summer, with a level of protection against UV rays, dust protection, and breathable fabric for moisture buildup.

Models designed for colder climates offer protection against rain, heavy snow, and strong winds. Despite that, these still are made from breathable material to protect from moisture.

You can find an all-season car cover that combines everything. It offers protection for each season. These models are best for car owners that live in a climate with 4 seasons.

Indoor Car Covers

Designed for indoor storage. The only indoor protection needed is from dust. Most people don’t take this seriously but the dust buildup in your garage can cause paint damage. You don’t want the cover to trap moisture, so indoor covers have breathable fabric too.

Most indoor covers are relatively the same. Providing basic protection for garaged cars. As long as it keeps the vehicle dry and blocks dust, it can be considered a good product.

What Type Of Car Cover To Use In Winter

I guess most of you came here about using a car cover for winter. So, let’s focus on that right now.

A proper winter can cause terrible weather conditions that are harmful to the paint job. First of all, cold temperatures can cause rust. The snow can freeze on your car which will increase the corrosion.

So, you need a car cover for winter that offers protection against snow and rain. Windy conditions make things worse, so you need a cover with tight tie straps. A gust of wind can blow the rain and snow inside the cover.

Also, you need something light, a cover with soft fleece. The fleece lining makes sure the cover is not too heavy on the car. Especially when snow builds up on top of the car.

You want a breathable cover but not one that will let through water and snow. This can freeze your doors. Ice may form with the ground if the cover is too low, completely trapping your car.

In conclusion, a winter cover should offer multiple layers of protection against snow, rain, and wind. It should fit well and tight with the car to prevent any leaks. Custom-fit covers are recommended for winter usage.

Maybe this is best explained with an example. Let me show you some quality car covers. Let this model serve as an example of a good cover for winter.

• Platinum Shield Car Cover 
  A model that has everything. Fleece lining and reinforced grommets. Fabric designed for maximum protection against dust, UV, bird droppings, snow, rain, wind.
• Ultimate Shield Car Cover
  It’s the same with this product. Any cover that has these features will serve you for many winters to come.

Check out Carcovers.com. They sell car covers for many vehicle models. Affordable car covers that come with at least 10 years of warranty.

How To Avoid Damage From Winter Car Cover

Some people say that covers should not be used in winter because they can do more harm than good. That is if the cover is not used properly. I know that you may be afraid of using a car cover. There’s is nothing to worry about as long as you have a high-quality cover that fits perfectly for your car.

To avoid damage from a car cover, follow this.

• Get a custom-fit cover.
  No matter the type of tie straps you have, the cover will be blown by the wind, and snow will get everywhere if the cover does not fit well. Even covers with adjustable straps need to be a good fit for the car. Make sure everything is covered nice and tight, the antenna patches too.
• Get a cover with snow protection.
  The cover must be able to protect the car from snow. This means the cover should be water-resistant and it should not allow for the car to freeze.
• Protection from moisture build-up.
  If moisture is trapped inside the cover, the car will freeze from the cold. Get something with breathable fabric but also something that won’t let snow and rain through.
• Tight tie straps.
  This is really important too. You don’t want windy conditions to move the cover, it will scratch the car. Also, snow may be blown inside the cover.
• Clean your car and cover regularly.
  As soon as you can remove the snow from the cover, do it. Do not let it sit like that for a long time.

How To Protect Your Car During Winter

• Store Inside.
  Now, I know that some of you don’t have this option, that’s why we made this post. However, if you can store your car inside, I highly recommend you do that. If you are parking outside, make sure the snow trucks are not pushing in the snow to your car.
• Get a car cover.
  Whether you are storing your car inside or outside, you need a cover.
• Wash your car regularly to remove road salt.
  When the weather gets a bit warmer, and there’s no more snow, wash your car to get rid of the salt.
• Add a coat of wax.
  This goes a long way, adding an extra layer of protection to your car.

Related Questions And Other FAQs

Do Car Covers Do More Harm Than Good

Car covers can cause paint damage but only if not used and sized properly. A well-maintained, high-quality, multiple layers of protection car cover will protect your car from any damage the weather may cause.

Will A Car Cover Freeze To The Car

A car cover can freeze to the car if it’s not designed for the winter season. An outdoor cover with snow and rain protection will not freeze and stick to the car.

When Should You Cover Your Car

Your car should be covered when stored both inside and outside. Feel free to cover your car any time of the day. It’s best to cover your car to prevent dust build-up and in rainy and snowy weather.

How To Wash Car Cover

Before washing your car cover, make sure to check if it is machine washable. Wash it with cold water and mild soap. Rinse extra time when the cycle is over before air drying it.

Closing Thoughts

So, should you cover your car in the winter? My answer is yes. Get a good car cover that fits your car perfectly. Make sure it has all the protection features you need. Make sure the cover is sized right, and you are using it right.