Outdoor Car Covers

[jetace25]

I have to buy an outdoor cover for my S3 non turbo and have narrowed the field to two makes. Can anyone with experience of these help me decide whether to go for the Classic Additions lightweight or the Hamilton Classic outdoor cover?

Many thanks,

Si

[gghc87]

Si

The LTF shop sells some very good tailor made covers which can be found here

http://www.thelotusforums.com/shop/35-car-covers

[jetace25]

Thanks Cliff,

They do look good. Sadly I can't wait one week let alone 4-6 as my car is going off to a friend's where it will be outside and has just been polished and detailed. I was going to get a non fitted cover which would arrive in just a day or so.

Si

[Rodewaryer]

I prepared a lengthy explanation of how the very best method outdoors is by using 2 fitted covers. I lost my draft and will not go through that trouble again. Long story short, if you're only using one cover it needs to be fitted to not only protect the car but to last as well. After 28 years of covering cars in the desert (yes, we get quite violent thunderstorms here) I've learned non-fitted covers are a compromise and in the end I should have spent the extra money on a fitted one. I can give a better run down of what I actually do in a PM or email if desired. It's a pain in the backside but it works and the covers last.

[mr.oogieboogie]

well i bought one off ebay for around £30 never though id use it but in teh end the car stayed outside for 9months rain snow etc and was fine this was a breathable one and not fitted paint was also fine, i gave it a wash and polish and a good coat of wax before it was layed up so im not too convinced about the more expensive one although they do look nice

[bo90]

I bought a tight fitting outdoor cover through clublotus 2 years ago.

Last month I peeled back the cover after months of hibernation to find white flakes all all over the body, the inside of the cover has disintegrated.

Obviously I'm extremely unhappy after spending a considerable amount of money on this.

[Choppa]

Yuk! I hope you've had a word with Club Lotus about that!

[mr.oogieboogie]

Nasty, do they wash off

[bo90]

Pete, it washes off but I have to do it everytime I remove the cover. Yesterday I noticed water within the boot compartment next to the battery, I think the "waterproof" element of the cover is failing.

Edited August 14, 2010 by botus

[mr.oogieboogie]

see if its washable and take it to a laundrette, and get it cleaned (otherwise it may clog up your washing machine)

[mr.oogieboogie]

Bo if you stuck you can borrow mine as not using it at the moment