What car cover

[rthierry]

Let me reassure you first, this is not a debate about where to buy a good car cover. I've seen the answer to that question on numerous threads. No, what I am after really is sound advice on which one to get:
Option 1: the hood cover. How hard/easy is this to fit? Can it be fitted on a wet car? How secure is it? Size when folded?
Option 2: Full car cover. Basically the same questions as above. Although I know that the really waterproof covers have to be fitted on a dry car - which is a bit of bummer don't you think? I have seen a 80% waterproof cover (whatever that means) that can be fitted on a wet car - any experience anyone?

I would also add that my Chimaera-to-be (100 hours to go!!) will be parked on the streets of London (NW6).

Thanks in advance for sharing your experience.

Roms

[thegamekeeper]

It is a 100% bad idea to put any kind of cover on wet paintwork.It will cause more problems than someone going along both sides with a key

[rthierry]

Blimey, why is it that bad? Should I not trust the manufacturer when they say it 'breathes' ? I find this a bit of a catch 22. You want to put a cover on your car to prevent leaks. bird shit, and the rest, but you can't do it once it's wet! To me this constraint put the very use of an outdoor car cover into question.
Thanks for the word of warning.

Roms

[JonRB]

I don't see any problems with a hood-only cover like the Leven one (see www.leventechnology.co.uk/tvr_misc.htm#hood_cover) as it barely touches the paintwork. I'd agree with comments about a full cover on wet paintwork though.

[pbrettle]

Chaps,

I have one of those Leven Technology hood covers for my Chimaera and it works a treat. Nice tight fit and easy to put on / take off. Keeps the hood dry and the water away from the bits that can leak on the windows / hood. Can strongly recommend them - though a touch expensive.

In general the comments about the paint work I have heard before - but it is all about consideration and care. Dont forget that the same is true for tree sap and gunk like that. Nothing better than a good regular clean with decent car wash, followed by a dry and wax. Keeps the paintwork in good condition. Try not to cut corners too - nothing beats elbow grease in these situations.

Cheers,

Paul

[petert]

I've used a Hood cover for over 15 months on my S and can only say good things about it. It's easy to throw over when I've got the panels off, for 'out of sight' as well as rain protection. I have no problems putting the cover on when the hood is wet. A slight 'unique' smell does develop but this disapears once both hood and cover are dried. It fixes over the door mirrors and there is a rear 'flap', I think to fold into the boot. I would not recommend doing this since it could mark the paint. I do have very slight scratches on the paint just by the door handles where the hood has been stitched.
I would recommend the hood cover if you want to protect from the rain and a full 'soft' cover as dust protection when dry and in the garage.