How to Put On a Car Cover: Step-by-Step Guide
By John Funk, September 10, 2026
Quick Answer
To put on a car cover, first identify the front of the cover and secure it around the front bumper. Pull the cover over the roof and place it over the side mirrors if it has mirror pockets. Make sure the antenna is properly accommodated, then pull the remaining cover over the vehicle and secure it under the rear bumper. A proper fit helps keep the cover securely in place while protecting your vehicle from dirt, UV rays, weather, and other outdoor elements.
Key Takeaways
- Position the front of the cover over the front bumper first, then pull it smoothly over the vehicle.
- Place the cover over the side mirrors and properly accommodate the antenna, if applicable.
- Pull the cover evenly over the vehicle and secure it under the rear bumper for a snug fit.
- Opt for a durable car cover with a proper fit to help safeguard your vehicle against UV rays, dirt, tree sap, and changing weather conditions.
Relying solely on public transit can make your already hectic life even more hectic. We are witnessing a steep increase in the rate of car ownership in many countries, especially in cities that continue to grow and evolve. Around the world, owning a car is a ticket to freedom in your schedule.
A car cover is a necessary accessory to protect your vehicle from bird droppings, tree sap, dirt, grime, UV rays, snow, hail, and other extreme weather conditions. Most car covers may look the same, but they are not. As a car owner, it is your responsibility to choose a cover that provides superior protection to your beloved vehicle.
How to Put On a Car Cover
Putting on a car cover is a simple process when you follow the correct order. Ensure the vehicle is clean and dry before putting on the cover. Dirt or grit trapped between the cover and the paint can cause scratches as the cover moves, while moisture can remain trapped underneath. Also, allow the engine and exhaust to cool before covering the vehicle.
The following steps explain how to put car cover on a vehicle properly:
1. Clean and Dry Your Car
Start with a clean, dry vehicle. Clean off any dirt, dust, and debris from the vehicle’s exterior before putting on the cover. Let the vehicle dry completely and give the engine and exhaust enough time to cool before putting on the cover.
Seal Skin Expert Tip: Always make sure the vehicle is clean and completely dry before putting on the cover. Dirt or moisture trapped underneath can affect the vehicle’s finish.
2. Identify the Front of the Cover
Find the tag, label, logo, or other marking that indicates the front of the cover. Identifying the correct end before you begin makes installation easier and helps ensure the cover is properly aligned with the vehicle.
3. Position the Front
Place the front section of the cover over the vehicle’s front end. Center the cover and gently pull it over the hood, roof, and sides. Work gradually rather than dragging the material across the vehicle's surface.
4. Fit the Mirror Pockets
If the cover has dedicated mirror pockets, position them over the side mirrors. This helps align the cover correctly and provides a more secure fit. Mirror pockets should generally be positioned before pulling the ends of the cover over the bumpers.
5. Pull the Cover Over the Vehicle
Continue pulling the cover evenly over the roof, windows, hood, trunk, and sides of the vehicle. Smooth out any bunching and make sure the cover reaches all the way around the vehicle. A properly positioned cover should sit evenly without leaving exposed areas.
6. Position the Antenna Opening
If your vehicle has a fixed whip or wire antenna, use the cover's antenna opening, grommet, or antenna patch if provided. For a non-retractable antenna, follow the cover manufacturer's instructions for creating and reinforcing the opening. Small shark-fin antennas typically do not require an opening.
7. Secure the Rear of the Cover
Position the rear section securely over the back of the vehicle, keeping the cover centered and even. Tuck the elastic hem around the rear bumper as designed. Make sure the cover is centered and fully covers the vehicle without any loose or exposed areas.
8. Lock or Tie Down
Finish by securing the cover with its straps, buckles, or other fastening system. Run the straps underneath the vehicle as directed by the manufacturer and tighten them enough to keep the cover secure without putting excessive tension on the material. In areas with strong winds, additional tie-downs or a cable-and-lock system may provide added security.
Once the cover is secured, walk around the vehicle and check that it sits smoothly and covers the vehicle completely. A properly fitted and secured cover is less likely to shift or flap against the paint in windy conditions.
How to Put a Car Cover on an SUV
Putting a car cover on an SUV follows the same basic process as covering a standard car. Follow the steps mentioned above to properly install and secure the cover.
The main difference is the SUV's larger dimensions and taller body. Make sure you use a cover specifically designed or properly sized for SUVs so it can adequately cover the roof, sides, bumpers, and other exterior areas. You may also need to work around the vehicle in stages to pull the cover evenly into place without bunching or leaving any sections exposed.
Once the cover is positioned, check that it is centered and reaches the lower edges of the SUV. Secure it with the supplied straps, buckles, or tie-down system, paying particular attention to the fastening points if the SUV will be parked in a windy area.
How to Remove a Car Cover Without Scratching the Car?
Removing a car cover properly is as important as putting it on correctly. Trapped dirt and debris can scratch the paint if the cover is dragged across the vehicle. Follow these steps to remove the cover safely:
- Remove the tie-downs: Carefully undo the straps, buckles, or other securing mechanisms before removing the cover.
- Fold the side sections inward: Gently lift the sides away from the vehicle and fold them toward the center rather than dragging the cover across the paint.
- Free the Cover from the Bumpers: Gently lift the cover away from the bumpers and fold it inward to avoid dragging it across the paint.
- Fold the Cover for Storage: After cleaning and drying the cover, fold it carefully and keep it in a dry, sheltered place.
- Store it properly: Make sure the cover is clean and dry before folding and storing it in a cool, dry place.
Seal Skin Expert Tip: Never drag a dirty or wet car cover across the vehicle. Remove any accumulated dirt or debris from the cover according to the manufacturer’s care instructions before its next use.
Tips for Using a Car Cover
Following a few simple care and maintenance practices can help keep your car cover effective and extend its lifespan.
Why Choose a Top-Quality Seal Skin Car Cover
Choosing the right car cover can help protect your vehicle from everyday exposure while providing a secure fit. Seal Skin offers Seal-Fit car covers that are designed to provide a closer fit than universal covers while remaining more affordable than many custom-fit options.
Seal-Fit covers are available in different sizes and materials to suit various vehicles and weather conditions. The cover’s multilayer construction provides protection from UV rays, dirt, dust, tree sap, hail, and other outdoor elements, while its soft inner lining helps protect the vehicle’s finish. The breathable design also allows air to circulate and helps minimize moisture buildup underneath the cover.
For drivers looking for a practical balance of fit, protection, and value, a Seal Skin car cover can be a suitable alternative to both universal and custom-fit covers.
The Other Advantages of Choosing a Seal Skin Car Cover
There are several benefits of covering your vehicle with a Seal Skin cover. Here are some of them.
- Our car covers come in a host of colors, sizes, and materials, and you can choose one based on your preference.
- Our Seal-Fit covers are UV-resistant, waterproof, durable, and long-lasting, making them the ideal choice for your cherished vehicle in all weather conditions.
- A Seal Skin car cover is made of multiple layers that provide advanced protection to ensure that your vehicle is guaranteed to be safe not only from damages due to the sun’s rays but also from damages caused by hail, tree sap, and other external factors.
- Our expertly designed car covers are non-abrasive and help in protecting your vehicle’s exterior from dirt, dust, scratches, and more.
- The inner fleece lining ensures a snug fit and prevents your vehicle from any kind of scratch, mainly because of its softness.
- Our smartly designed Seal Skin car covers leave breathable space to prevent moisture formation. This in turn helps in preventing mold and mildew build-up.
At Seal Skin, we offer high-quality Seal-Fit car covers with a guaranteed fit and excellent value. Our products are reasonably priced and we will ship your order right to your doorstep at no additional cost. We offer a full 30-day money-back guarantee and a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty with every purchase.
You can call us at 800-915-0038 during our office hours (Monday to Sunday, 9 AM to Midnight EST) and we will help you find the right car cover that fits your needs and budget. We will also help you if you have any questions about our products, shipping policies, and exchange/refund policies.
FAQs
How do you put on a car cover correctly?
Start with a clean, dry vehicle and position the cover from front to back. Make sure it sits evenly and secure it with the provided fasteners.
How should you properly put a car cover on a car?
Begin at the front and gradually pull the cover over the vehicle. Fit the mirror pockets and antenna opening if needed, then secure the rear.
Is it necessary to wash your car before covering it?
Yes, cleaning the car first helps remove dirt and debris that could rub against the paint and cause scratches.
Can you put a car cover on a wet car?
Allow the vehicle to dry fully before covering it. This helps prevent moisture from becoming trapped underneath.
How to put on a car cover with straps
Start by positioning the cover over the vehicle from front to back. Once the cover is properly fitted, fasten the supplied straps underneath the vehicle and tighten them securely without overtightening.
How do you keep a car cover from blowing away?
A properly secured cover is less likely to shift or blow away. Fasten all supplied straps, buckles, or tie-downs to keep the cover in place.
How to put car cover on SUV
The process is largely the same as covering a standard car, but you should use a cover specifically sized for the SUV. Make sure it provides complete coverage and is properly secured.
How to put a car cover on by yourself
Start with a clean, dry vehicle and identify the front of the cover. Position it over the front, pull it evenly across the vehicle, fit the mirror pockets and antenna opening if needed, then secure the rear and fasten the straps. Knowing how to put car cover easily can make the installation quicker and more convenient.
How should you prepare your vehicle before using a car cover?
Make sure your vehicle is properly prepared before covering it:
- Clean and free of dirt and debris
- Completely dry
- Cool, particularly around the engine and exhaust
- Compatible with the size and type of cover
Can a car cover damage your paint?
A properly fitted cover should not damage the paint when used correctly. Dirt trapped underneath or dragging the cover across the surface can cause scratches.
How do you properly store a car cover when it is not needed?
Clean and dry the cover completely before folding it. Place the cover in a cool, dry area when storing it between uses.
How do you secure a car cover in windy weather?
Fasten all the included straps, buckles, or tie-downs to keep the cover secure. Make sure each fastening point is properly attached without overtightening.
How do you determine the correct car cover size?
Choose a cover designed for your vehicle’s make, model, and body style. The cover should provide full coverage without being excessively loose.
Can you put a car cover on a wet car?
No, the vehicle should be completely dry before you put on the cover. Covering a wet car can trap moisture underneath the cover.
