Best Car Covers (2023 Ratings)

Aidan Pounder is a Motor1.com product tester who has written reviews spanning from car insurance to rooftop cargo boxes. He regularly traveled both cross-country and internationally for cycling throughout his youth, having been awarded multiple state titles and podiuming at national championships across several different disciplines of the sport. He spent his more formative years under the hood of a car making sure he could get to his next bike race and knows the best way to secure all of your gear out on the road. His reviews have appeared in major automotive digital publications such as HotCars and Motor1. Aidan brings road trip know-how and a touch of DIY spirit to our team. If he’s not burning through the clutch on his 2003 Ford Focus Zx3, you’ll find him keeping up with the latest happenings in the world of European football.

Speed Reads:

An extremely-durable, UV-reflective car cover that’s lightweight and easy to use.

A waterproof and breathable car cover with taped seams, tie-down straps, and a 10-year warranty.

A lightweight indoor car cover made from a high-quality stretchable material.

A multi-layer car cover with scratch-resistance.

A high-quality, inexpensive car cover designed for indoor storage.

Windproof, water-repellent, and UV-resistant car covers can keep your paint job protected. This helps preserve the appearance and resale value of your vehicle. But the best car cover will vary depending on the size of your car, local weather, and if you keep your car indoors or outside.

We’ll explain the ins and outs of car covers and recommend some of our favorite options for auto enthusiasts.

To make purchasing a car cover as easy as possible, our team dedicated hours to researching and then physically testing a variety of options. We’ve narrowed the list down to our seven favorites and provided recommendations for covers with different uses and price points.

Based on a high volume of positive consumer feedback and our own personal experience using these car covers, we assessed each cover in rating categories including ease of installation, material, and fit.

According to the criteria listed below, the best car covers are the CarCovers.com Platinum Shield Car Cover, Seal Skin Supreme Car Cover, Budge RSC-3, Motor Trend SafeKeeper, Budge Lite, OxGord Executive Storm-Proof, and the FH Group C502-L.

The table below highlights the car covers’ performance in each review category:

To select the car covers featured in this buyers guide, we consult our network of experts for their thoughts on vehicle covers. These experts have over 100 years of combined experience in aftermarket auto fields ranging from detailing to accessories to tires, and everything in-between. These experts helped us identify the qualities that would be most important to someone looking for a car cover and the standout brands in each category.

The car covers in this article went through two rounds of reviews. We started by searching retailers like Amazon, RealTruck, and Advance Auto Parts for top products, looking at factors such as material, build quality, customer ratings, and prices.

Our product testing team then ordered the car covers that best met these standards. A team member tested each product on a 2003 Ford Focus ZX3, taking note of how well the car covers fit, material quality, and ease of installation. Each car cover was given a rating out of 5 stars based on these criteria.

The sections below detail the assessment process for each testing category:

We also factored in the quantity and quality of online retailer reviews from websites such as Amazon, RealTruck, Advance Auto Parts, and more. We looked at factors such as notable customer reviews, prices, meaningful superlatives, and discount shipping eligibility. We did the research so you don’t have to.

Why You Can Trust Us

Since 2020, we have published over 350 auto product reviews in an effort to make shopping for auto products easier. Our team of writers, editors, researchers, and product experts collaborates to thoroughly vet top products. We try to perform in-house testing on real vehicles whenever possible before making our recommendations.

When testing is not feasible, however, our aim is to make your life easier by doing all the online research for you and presenting that research in the form of easy-to-read product comparisons and buyers guides, rather than outright recommendations. For more information on our testing methodology and how we evaluate every product, check out our methodology page here.

After we tested several options ranging in price, we determined that CarCovers.com offers the best car cover with the Platinum Shield because it offers a customized fit and features durable, multi-layer fabric and a soft inner lining to keep your car protected.

While the CarCovers.com Platinum Shield is our pick for the best car cover on the market in 2023, the best car cover for you and your vehicle(s) will depend on your needs and budget. In the table below, you can compare the top seven car covers on our list:

*Because cost data fluctuates, the prices in the table above are approximate values that our team regularly updates.

For those interested in learning more, we’ve provided a detailed review of each of the best car covers in the sections below:

Cost: $195Indoor/Outdoor: OutdoorFit: CustomWarranty: Lifetime

The CarCovers.com Platinum Shield is one of the best-fitting car covers that we tested. All covers are model-specific and constructed of high-quality, UV-resistant material.

The lightweight material is not only durable but safe on your car’s paint. The inner fleece layer is soft and breathable to protect paint and prevent mildew and moisture buildup. The outer layer is a light, reflective color, which helps with UV resistance and keeps your vehicle cooler.

You can see how the CarCovers.com Platinum Shield performed in each category below:

We think this cover is unmatched when it comes to overall protection and ease of use. Below are the pros and cons of the CarCovers.com Platinum Shield:

We think this car cover excels in every important category: it’s made from a durable material, is easy to install, and fits like a glove (due in part to model-specific sizing).

Cost: $170Indoor/Outdoor: OutdoorFit: CustomWarranty: 10 years

*Valid through 12/31/23.

The Seal Skin Supreme Car Cover offers excellent weather protection. It is designed to be 100 percent waterproof and breathable. This is accomplished by utilizing as few openings as possible (no antenna hole or mirror sleeves) and using taped seams. The SEAL-TEC fabric design is specifically engineered to offer the best waterproofing.

You can see how the Seal Skin Supreme Car Cover performed in each category below:

This cover also comes with an impressive 10-year warranty against rips, tears, and breathability issues. Below are the pros and cons of the Seal Skin Supreme Car Cover:

Like the Platinum Shield, we were impressed by the material quality of the Seal Skin Supreme cover. While this cover is better designed to repel water, it is less reflective and is not quite as easy to install because it requires using straps underneath.

SealSkin does not sell its car covers directly on Amazon. Some secondary sellers offer SealSkin covers through Amazon, though these aren’t well-reviewed. Typical Amazon complaints mention that the cover does not fit well. This is likely because SealSkin covers are model-specific. Those ordering from a secondary seller likely receive the wrong-size cover. Be sure to order directly from SealSkin to ensure proper fitment.

Cost: $155Amazon Rating: 4.6 out of 5.0 (approx. 450 reviews)Indoor/Outdoor: IndoorFit: UniversalWarranty: Two years

The Budge RSC-3 is our product testing team’s pick for the best indoor car cover available on the market. This car cover is extremely breathable, meaning the car cover will dry quickly to prevent the formation of mold or mildew.

This indoor car cover consists of a soft inner liner, soft stretch outer layer, and full elastic hem. As the car cover isn’t designed for outdoor use, it is not waterproof, but it will hide any dings and dents from view. The cover is made from nylon and polyester material, meaning it is lightweight and can easily be stowed away even if you have limited storage space.

You can see how the Budge RSC-3 performed in each category below:

This high-quality car cover is designed for indoor use, but it can protect against airborne pollutants and also offers UV protection. Below are the pros and cons of the Budge RSC-3:

The Budge RSC-3 has everything you could ask for from an indoor car cover. The material is high-quality and durable, the cover fits well, and it’s easy to install and remove.

Reviews speak to the car cover’s dust-proof material, while others note the stretchy fabric allowing for a snug fitment on the vehicle. Many reviewers sing the praises of the soft fleece on the inside of the car liner and how they don’t have to worry about scratching or damaging their car’s paint when using this quality car cover.

Cost: $80Amazon Rating: 4.4 out of 5.0 (approx. 2,500 reviews)Indoor/Outdoor: OutdoorFit: UniversalWarranty: Four years

Built to handle any weather conditions, the Motor Trend SafeKeeper is our product testing team’s choice for the Best Waterproof Cover in 2023. This six-layer car cover consists of an outer breathable film, outer ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), waterproof sealant layer, particle filter film layer, enhanced polyethylene (PE) compound foam comfort layer, and an inner scratch-proof fleece lining.

Providing heat and cold resistance, the breathable woven polyester also prevents moisture build-up. The exterior layer of this car cover is well-made and durable, it even includes reflective safety strips.

You can see how the Motor Trend SafeKeeper performed in each category below:

This car cover is 100 percent waterproof and it offers protection from UV rays. Additionally, it includes wind-resistant safety straps to ensure a snug fit over your vehicle. Below are the pros and cons of the Motor Trend SafeKeeper:

Although the number of layers that make up a car cover wasn’t part of our testing criteria, it should be noted that the Motor Trend SafeKeeper is one of only two multi-layer covers that we tested. The multi-layer design certainly gives this car cover a leg up on the competition.

Reviews mention the warranty that comes with the SafeKeeper cover, and others state the Motor Trend SafeKeeper is as good as any custom-fit car cover available on the market. Quite a few reviewers recognize the three buckles as very helpful and easy to fasten, while others note how heavy-duty the car cover is.

Cost: $25Amazon Rating: 4.2 out of 5.0 (approx. 11,000 reviews)Indoor/Outdoor: IndoorFit: UniversalWarranty: Two years

The Budge Lite is an affordable option for those looking to protect their vehicle without spending hundreds of dollars. This car cover is lightweight and is made from a single layer of spun-bond polypropylene.

The elasticized hem guarantees the car cover won’t fly off in the wind and ensures a snug fit. The sewn-in grommets act as additional reinforcement against the wind, and using a cable to secure the cover with the grommets can act as a theft deterrent. The seams are double-stitched for increased durability, and non-abrasive materials ensure that no damage will be caused to the car’s paintwork.

You can see how the Budge Lite performed in each category below:

This indoor car cover is also fully breathable and features an elasticized hem as well as built-in grommets. Below are the pros and cons of the Budge Lite:

Price wasn’t one of our testing criteria, but it would be unwise to overlook the cost of a product. This car cover offers quality indoor protection at an affordable price. It should also be noted that the manufacturer mentions that the cover is somewhat UV-resistant.

One reviewer notes that it fits their 2019 Toyota Avalon perfectly, while another appreciates the grommets that are included which can be used for tie-downs. Many reviewers rave over the elastic hem, as it gives the car cover a snug fit over their vehicles. The majority of negative reviews seem to be attributed to customer misuse, as even though this car cover is meant solely for indoor use, many customers complain about its outdoor use.

Cost: $35Amazon Rating: 4.2 out of 5.0 (approx. 4,700 reviews)Indoor/Outdoor: OutdoorFit: UniversalWarranty: One year

The OxGord Executive Storm-Proof is an outdoor car cover that’s adept to handle a variety of weather conditions. This semi-custom car cover not only offers UV light protection but is also 100 percent waterproof. Featuring reinforced seams for added durability, the OxGord is also highly breathable to ensure mold and mildew don’t form.

This multi-layer car cover features seven layers, five of which are layers of spunbond polypropylene. The remaining two layers consist of one layer of micro-porous film and a soft layer of cotton.

You can see how the OxGord Executive Storm-Proof performed in each category below:

Additionally, elastic hems are included on the front and rear of the vehicle, making the fit notably better than it would’ve been without the inclusion of elastic hems. Below are the pros and cons of the OxGord Executive Storm-Proof:

The OxGord Executive Storm-Proof is a great option for those looking to purchase a car cover to protect their vehicle against the elements. Most car covers only feature a single layer, but this seven-layer car cover shows why multi-layer car covers are so sought after.

Specific customer reviews point to the high-quality material of the universal car cover and the soft underside of the cover, meaning that the car’s paint isn’t scratched. Many reviewers note the car cover’s ability to handle extreme weather conditions. Negative reviews mention that the car cover will almost melt onto the car in very hot temperatures, leaving behind irreparable damage to the car’s paint.

Cost: $35Amazon Rating: 3.8 out of 5.0 (approx. 450 reviews)Indoor/Outdoor: OutdoorFit: UniversalWarranty: N/A

Designed for outdoor use, the FH Group C502-L rounds out our product testing team’s picks for the best car covers on the market. This outdoor car cover is fully waterproof, UV-resistant, and can shield your car from airborne pollutants. The cover is made from breathable polyester material, meaning the car will air out and dry before mold has a chance to form.

The C502-L’s polyester material is treated with a special silver coating for increased durability. The inner lining of this cover is soft and scratch-resistant, which means you won’t need to worry about damaging your car’s exterior with this cover.

You can see how the FH Group C502-L performed in each category below:

Something that separates the C502-L from the competition is the fact that this car cover is heat-reflective, hence our team naming it the Best Car Cover for Extreme Sun. Below are the pros and cons of the FH Group C502-L:

The FH Group C502-L will undoubtedly be a reliable outdoor cover to protect your vehicle from the elements. Our product testing team firmly believes that this car cover will perform as advertised.

Reviews note that the car cover is easy to install and remove, and it protects cars from tree sap. Many reviewers sing the praises of this water-resistant car cover offering solid weather protection. Negative reviews complain that the cover is ill-fitting and looks like a storage bag rather than a car cover.

Car covers are seemingly simple by design, but this isn’t the case for all high-quality covers. A surprising amount of engineering and design goes into these products, making the process of figuring out what works best for you more complicated.

Below are a few factors that we believe are worth considering before you buy a new car cover.

Indoor covers are drastically different from outdoor covers. The features of each type of cover vary, as does the way the car cover should be used.

If you’re looking to purchase an outdoor cover, that cover will need to handle a variety of weather conditions.

“People don’t realize [car covers] are not supposed to be waterproof,” says Kyle Marker, a parts manager at Leith Lincoln in Raleigh, North Carolina. “Waterproof […] turns into mold.”

Marker added that some cheaper, low-quality car covers tend to be thicker, which retains moisture and can contribute to mold formation.

“They’ll keep moisture in and you want moisture to flow in and out,” he says. “That’s sort of the downside, people say ‘I want it to be waterproof.’ No, you don’t. You want there to be some transfer.”

When it comes to using a car cover, Marker says the best situation is when you store a vehicle outside and do not drive it daily.

“They’re not hard to put on,” Marker says. “You can put them on by yourself in five minutes. It’s extra time that most people don’t want to spend.”

For the most part, our team has found that you get what you pay for when it comes to car covers. The average car cover costs roughly $30. However, if you’re wanting to invest in one of the best car covers on the market – expect to spend around $100.

Putting a car cover on your vehicle is a pretty straightforward process. Most manufacturers designate one side as the “front” of the cover, typically with a marking or label, which fits over the vehicle’s front bumper. From there, you pull the rest of the cover across the vehicle and smooth out any bunched areas.

Many car cover manufacturers make their products machine washable, although you should always consult the owner’s manual for the best way to clean your purchase.

It’s also quite common for car covers to be sold with a storage bag. Those storage bags are meant to help keep the cover generally clean, as well as prevent it from collecting dust and debris when not in use.

After making sure the size and fit of the car cover you choose works for your vehicle, the next thing you should consider is where your car typically lives. Will your car be outside or staying in a garage? If it’s the latter, UV protection may not be as important. But if you are storing the vehicle outside and you live in a colder climate, a cover durable enough for harsh winters might be the appropriate choice.

The point is that for preserving a vehicle that is either valuable or you don’t drive daily, car covers can be a critical part of that process.

Need more options to consider? We haven’t yet tested the car covers below, but based on our research think these would also offer top-notch paint protection.

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The WeatherShield HP is a high-grade custom-fit car cover. The breathable fabric allows moisture to escape while providing lightweight outdoor protection from UV rays and bird droppings. It is available in five different colors and even includes a four-year warranty.

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The Coverking Satin Stretch is soft on your paint job while being durable enough to guard against scratches. It has double stitching with waxed threads which help keep water out. This contour car cover is designed for indoor use and is custom fit to your vehicle.

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This five-layer cover is fully waterproof. The innermost layer is built from soft fleece to be gentle on your paint, while the outer Polypropylene layers guard against rain and snow. This heavy-duty cover comes in truck sizes and is fit specifically for your vehicle.

Below are some common frequently asked questions about car covers:

After testing a number of car covers in person, our product testing team felt that the CarCovers.com Platinum shield was the best car cover based on the strength of the material, model-specific sizing, and ease of use. If you only need an indoor cover, you might consider the Budge RSC-3.

Car covers are most certainly worth it for drivers who want to protect their vehicles from the elements. A car cover can protect your car from inclement weather, bird droppings, harmful UV rays, and more.

Quality car covers should not ruin paint when used properly, but as with most things, improper use means they have the potential to do so. This is mainly because of dirt, debris, and grime that can be caught under your car cover if you’re not diligent about keeping your cover clean.

As long as you purchase a high-quality, properly-sized car cover, there aren’t really any downsides to using a car cover.

If you purchase a car cover that does not fit properly or is made with poor materials, it could damage your paint. Car covers that don’t have proper ventilation can also cause mold and mildew buildup in certain climates.

Car covers can be stolen, though you can reduce the possibility of theft if you lock your car cover. Some covers include a special grommet and wire to secure the cover not only from wind but against thieves.

Darker colors, such as black or brown, absorb more sunlight whereas lighter colors disperse heat. If you’re concerned about the cover looking dirty, a darker fabric will be better at hiding grime.

Fabrics that are breathable and treated for UV protection usually make for the best outdoor car covers.

If you own a car that is not driven daily or you want to better protect it from the environment, a car cover may be a useful tool.

*Data accurate at time of publication.