Are car covers REALLY bad for the paint?
 

I'm planning on getting a car cover soon. I have some plans in store for the RX-8 and after everything is said and done it's going to look a bit...well...flashy...

I have heard that leaving covers on your car damages the paint. Is this true?

Sounds interesting. I don't see any harm in it as long as it stays dry.

I think you have nothing to worry about. The onlly thing that isn't really good for paint is those bras and that is only if they are left on to long.

They're not bad for paint. They're good for paint as long as your car is absolutely clean and the cover is paint safe (soft enough not to mar the delicate paint, waterproof, yet breathable).

Some people think covers and bras are "bad for paint" because they put them on a dirty surface. The dirty surface may contain dust, dirt, or any other abrasive objects. When the cover is put onto the dirty car, it will act somewhat like a sandpaper. And there you go :) .

Covers and bras will need to be removed and have the underside cleaned. Car bra's may hold in moisture and mold. Keep the surfaces clean and you will have no problems with proper covers and bras.

Car cover won't hurt paint as long as the car is clean and dry under the cover. I think you will have problems keeping the car clean and dry in Chicago. If there is any dirt between the car and the cover and any movement of the car cover you have a form of rubbing compound. If there is any moisture under the cover and hot sun is added paint could turn cloudy in the past. New paints may be better.

Bras essentially have the same restrictions, but being made of plastic can get real hot in the sun without having the moisture.

I have known Porsche owners who kept their cars under a car cover in their garage with excellent results. But I am not willing to ALWAYS wash and dry my car before putting it in the garage.

I have a high quality Winter cover for my outdoors stored '8 and when the cover cames off in Spring it always looks as good as when I put it on in the Fall.

As others cited, my '8 is well washed and waxed before I put on the cover. If daily use I would at least use a Cali Duster, or similar, prior.

Get a quality, breathable, cover and you'll be all set. I have a California Cover, but there are a number of excellent manufacturers (most get their raw materials from the same textile source anyway).

is the OEM rx8 car cover ok? It seems a bit rough to me..

Can anyone link me to a good cover?

I have the OEM cover and used it to store my 8 for 3 winters now. My paint is fine.

Bob

http://calcarcover.com/