Car covers are a popular solution for protecting your car from various elements such as bird droppings and sunlight. However, with such a wide range of options available, we decided to put them to the test.
Choosing the right car cover can be quite challenging. Many covers claim to be breathable, waterproof, or water-resistant, but they differ significantly in terms of price and material quality. Can they all be equally good? The answer is no. When it comes to car covers, you generally get what you pay for. While there are some commendable cheaper options, our test results showed that investing more upfront in a higher-quality cover is well worth it if you want long-lasting protection for your car.
We conducted our tests over several weeks, exposing our old 2001 BMW 3 Series and 1992 Mercedes SL test cars to autumn winds and showers. We evaluated the covers based on how well they kept the cars dry and free from moisture, their ability to allow sufficient air circulation, and how securely they stayed in place during poor weather conditions.
Best Buy: Concours Auto Galactic
Price from: £235
Buy from: Concours
Fitted? Semi-fitted
The Concours Auto Galactic is a heavy-duty car cover that may seem expensive, but it is definitely worth the investment. The cover feels exceptionally high quality, thanks to its dense, heavy polyester material and heat-sealed seams that provide excellent waterproofing and resistance to tearing. It fits our E46-generation BMW 3 Series perfectly, draping the car nicely while still allowing proper air circulation. The material efficiently repels water, ensuring the car’s bodywork remains dry to the touch and free from mold-inducing dampness, even when water sits on the cover for extended periods. The cover comes with securing straps that can be clipped onto the car’s bodywork to keep it in place. However, if you prefer not to use them, they can be easily removed to avoid potential damage caused by wind. Additionally, there is an extra middle eyelet that allows for the installation of a locking underbody kit (available for £9.95 from Concours Auto or purchased separately). The cover also conveniently fits back into the provided storage bag, eliminating the need for struggling to pack it away.
Autocar rating: 5 stars
