In what conditions is it safe to fit a car cover to your vehicle?
Under no circumstances should you consider fitting a car cover to a vehicle that has been left in the hot Australian sun long enough to heat up, or which is in any way wet as a result of rain or a recent wash. Fitting a car cover to a car that is hot can, in extreme case, damage the car cover and, in turn, may damage your vehicle. Similarly, fitting a car cover to a wet or damp vehicle can trap moisture between the vehicle and car cover. This moisture can cause mould to form, which can stain the car cover and damage the vehicle itself. Always ensure the vehicle is cool and dry before fitting a car cover by making sure the vehicle has been shaded long enough to cool down to ambient temperature prior to fitment, or has been given ample time to fully dry following a weather event and/or wash.
Can I fit a car cover to a newly painted vehicle?
Never fit a car cover to a vehicle that has recently been painted or returned from the panel beater for a repair. Allowing paint to cure for a minimum of 3 months prior to fitting a car cover is a good rule of thumb. This is because the duco must be given time to complete the process of releasing any remnant solvents. In winter and/or persistent adverse weather it is advisable to extend this time period, this is especially important if the vehicle in question hasn’t already spent several days baking in the hot Australian sun.
How should I clean my Car Cover?
Periodically cleaning your car cover to remove dust, dirt, and any detritus is important to ensure your car cover remains in good condition and doesn’t pose a risk to the condition of your vehicle. When a clean is required, use a soft brush or a damp cloth to gently wipe the outer surface. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on your car cover, as they can damage the material, which in turn may cause damage to your vehicle.
How should I store my Car Cover?
When not in use, it is important to store your car cover in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight. It is also important to carefully and neatly fold or roll the car cover in order to prevent creases and help ensure it maintains its shape. Do not store the car cover if in any way wet or damp by ensuring you allow it suitable time to dry completely before storage. This can be done by hanging the car cover in a well-ventilated space or by laying it flat on a clean and dry surface. Avoid using heat sources such as heaters or dryers, as excessive heat can distort, melt or otherwise damage the material.
How do I avoid causing mechanical damage to my car cover?
Take precautions to prevent the car cover from making contact with sharp objects such as antennas, brackets or anything with edges that could pierce or tear the material. Inspect the car cover regularly for any signs of damage and replace if and when necessary.
How do I avoid sunlight causing UV damage my car cover?
Outdoor car covers are designed to provide UV protection for your vehicle. If you intend use your car cover for extended periods in the harsh Australian sun then it is advisable to select a car cover that has been subjected to accelerated weathering testing via the ASTM G154 standard to ensure you get the maximum protection and longest possible service life from your car cover. However, prolonged exposure to intense sunlight can gradually degrade the material, so it is best to park your vehicle in a shaded area whenever possible to extend it’s service life.
How waterproof are outdoor car covers?
Outdoor car covers are designed to be waterproof, however this does limit breathability. Outdoor car covers can trap or may cause condensation to form between the car cover and your vehicle. Accordingly, it is recommended to remove, clean and air out your outdoor car cover on a bi-monthly basis. For situations where this is not possible, we recommend covering the vehicle with a clean cotton sheet before fitting the car cover to the vehicle, which will allow improve a layer between the car cover and vehicle that will help aid evaporation.
Will fuel, solvents, oil and other lubricants damage my car cover?
It is advisable to keep gasoline, oil, solvents, and other chemicals from coming into contact with your car cover in order to prevent staining or degradation of the car cover, or contaminating your duco or other vehicle surfaces. If a spill occurs, clean immediately with a mild soap and water solution.
How should I remove and reinstall my car cover?
Your car cover should provide many years of protection for your vehicle, provided it is cared for, used and stored appropriately. You can also minimise the chances of the car cover from causing scratches or other potential damage to your vehicle by minimising the need to drag or slide the car cover over the vehicle. One way to achieve this is by rolling or folding the car cover off the car while taking note of the start and end point and direction of the roll or fold. This way you can simply reverse the process when it comes time to replace the car cover onto your vehicle.
Is it legal to place a car cover over your vehicle if it is parked on a public road?
As far as we can tell, yes, it is, provided the vehicle is otherwise registered and compliant with all relevant statutory obligations. With that said it is worthwhile being mindful of the following. A car cover can obstruct your number plates and, more importantly from a safety viewpoint in particular, your reflectors. If your stationary vehicle is involved in a motor vehicle accident, the deliberate obstruction of your reflectors could, in theory, be used as grounds for any claim made against you, or that you might subsequently lodge, to be denied.
