Always protect the finish of a car.
There are several advantages to the use of a tarp as a car cover, particularly for people that cannot house their vehicles in a garage or even a covered carport. The car cover can protect the vehicle from debris blowing in the wind and rain, or even from bird droppings. Furthermore, it can help deter the possibility of theft, protect the inside of the vehicle from UV rays or simply keep the inside of the vehicle slightly cooler than it would have been on a hot day.
Instructions
1. Purchase a tarp that is listed as a custom fit to the year and make of the car to be covered. Universal covers usually will not fit as snugly as they should, resulting in sections that move in windy areas causing damage to the vehicle.
2. Use caution buying a waterproof cover. Although it may protect against rain, the tarps can also easily lock in condensation, causing water spots or mildew to form.
3. Remove the tarp from either the packaging it was purchased in or from the storage area where it is being kept. To maintain the paint finish on the car, remove any leaves, loose dirt or debris from the tarp, especially if it has been used in the past. Repeat this process with the vehicle as well.
4. Take care not to mount the tarp over a hot vehicle or near any hot exhaust pipes. Roll the cover over the vehicle from front bumper to back bumper without sliding it over the hood. Since some tarps do not come set up with a prefabricated hole for a radio antenna, one may need to be cut in the tarp to accommodate an antenna.
5. Walk the length of the vehicle while installing the cover to be certain you don't drag the tarp across a portion of the vehicle too roughly, resulting in a damaged tarp or paint job. Some vehicles, especially those with custom body kits, may contain sharp edges located on the rocker trim or bumpers.
6. Reinforce that the fabric that covers sharp edges to minimize the possibility of incurring tears during tarp installation or removal. Most quality tarps come equipped with locking straps and it is wise to utilize these devices at all times to keep the tarp snug against the vehicle and deter thieves.
7. Removing the tarp from a vehicle must be done carefully, be sure that the top is clean of any debris or water. Do not fold and put away a wet tarp. Dry it using the manufacturer's instructions first, then store in a plastic bag.
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