My car has to be parked under my neighbour's tree - can you suggest a car cover to protect it?

My new Mazda 2 has to be parked on my drive, overshadowed by my next-door-neighbour's silver birch tree. I'm thinking of buying a protective cover for the car. Can you offer some advice on which cover to buy?

Asked on 16 September 2018 by Stephen Jones

Answered by Georgia Petrie
Breathability is important when you're buying a car cover because moisture trapped under a cover can damage the paintwork. But you generally want something that's easy to use, fits well and has enough tethering to secure the cover in high winds. It comes down to whether you want something cheap that does the job or a cover that offers a bit more quality. I'd recommend the Halfords all-seasons car cover, but it pricier than a lot of the alternatives you'll see on Amazon. The Oxgord car cover is also well-rated.

Aside from the actual cover, there are some things to bear in mind about covering a car. Don't put a cover on a wet or dirty car, it needs to breathe. Likewise, don't keep the cover on for days at a time. If the cover becomes saturated with water, then stays on the car, the water can get into the paint. Then when it gets warmer, blisters can appear in the paintwork. Also, try to find a loose fitting car cover, tight fitting covers don't let the air circulate - which (again) is essential.
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