GoAuto Car Accessories

Category: Exterior

  • Outdoor car covers: how to choose the right one (2026 guide)

    Outdoor car covers: how to choose the right one (2026 guide)

    An outdoor car cover is a fitted fabric shell that protects a parked car from sun, rain, snow, sap and droppings. A breathable, water-resistant cover sized for the exact vehicle suits outdoor parking if you want moisture to escape and a close fit. Grommets for a lock or tie-downs help if the car sits in wind. This guide explains fit, fabric and security features, then compares 5 current covers using only their manufacturers’ published information.

    Compare the covers

    Cover Fit type Fabric Water claim Lock and cable Storage bag Warranty Suits
    Covercraft WeatherShield HP Custom Woven fiber with encapsulating finish Sheds water, breathable, not waterproof not stated not stated 4 years Rain and snow climates where a light cover is easier to handle
    Carhartt Work Vehicle Cover (Covercraft) Custom, trucks, SUVs and vans Water-resistant fabric with Rain Defender Water-resistant, breathable Grommets, kit sold separately not stated 5 years Work trucks parked at jobsites or yards
    Coverking Stormproof Custom to year, make and model Proprietary microfiber Water resistance built into the fiber, breathable Security grommets, kit optional not stated not stated Mixed weather with mirror and antenna pockets made for the car
    WeatherTech Sunbrella Outdoor Car Cover Custom to year, make, model and body style Dyed acrylic (Sunbrella) Water-resistant, breathable Grommets, 8 ft (2.4 m) kit sold separately 2 bags included Lifetime Limited Warranty Strong sun, humidity or coastal salt air
    Classic Accessories Over Drive PolyPRO 3 Universal, by length 3-layer polypropylene and polyethylene Water-repellent, breathable not stated not stated 2 years, limited Storage and moderate weather, sized by length

    How to choose an outdoor car cover

    Pick custom, semi-custom or universal fit

    A custom cover is cut for a single year, make and model, so it follows the roofline and mirrors closely. A semi-custom cover fits a group of similar body shapes. A universal cover is sold by total length and can sit loosely. Loose fabric flapping in wind can rub the paint, so a close fit matters more outdoors.

    Measure your car before you order a universal cover

    Universal covers list a maximum length, and some add width and height. Measure bumper to bumper, including any rear spoiler, and pick the size whose range includes your length. Take off any roof box before covering the car. The roof rack and cargo box guide covers how they mount.

    Decide between breathable and waterproof fabric

    Manufacturers use 3 terms. Water-repellent fabric makes water bead and run off while still passing air. Water-resistant fabric slows water down but can soak through in heavy or long rain. Waterproof fabric blocks water completely.

    No cover stops condensation, and trapped moisture under a cover can lead to mildew and paint damage. A breathable cover that sheds most water suits daily outdoor parking if condensation is a concern.

    Match layers and material to your climate

    Multi-layer covers stack outer shells, membranes and soft linings. More layers can add cushioning but also add bulk and drying time.

    Some makers point to dyed acrylic, such as Sunbrella, for intense sun. Lightweight treated fabrics dry faster after rain and fold smaller. If you live somewhere with intense sun, check whether the maker lists UV resistance on the product page.

    Check how the cover stays on in wind

    Look for an elastic hem at the front and rear, which pulls the cover under the bumpers. Grommets along the sides let you run a cable or a tie-down strap under the car. A cable with a padlock also makes the cover harder to steal. Many makers sell the lock and cable kit separately, so check what is in the box.

    Look for mirror pockets, antenna patches and door zippers

    Mirror pockets reduce stretch and keep the cover centered. A fixed mast antenna needs a sleeve, a pocket or a reinforced patch where you make a hole. Some universal covers add a zippered driver’s door, so you can reach the cabin without removing the whole cover.

    Clean the car first and plan storage

    Dirt trapped under a cover can act like sandpaper when the fabric moves. Wash and dry the car before you cover it. The car cleaning kit guide explains what you need.

    Classic Accessories advises waiting at least 4 weeks before covering new or freshly painted bodywork. A storage bag keeps a dry cover clean in the trunk between uses.

    The covers in more detail

    Covercraft WeatherShield HP

    WeatherShield HP is a custom-fit cover that Covercraft calls ultra-lightweight and quick drying. Each woven fiber gets an encapsulating finish meant to improve durability and fade resistance.

    Covercraft states the fabric is not waterproof. It sheds water, dust, dirt, bird droppings and tree sap while letting moisture and heat escape.

    It is rated for indoor and outdoor use, carries a 4 year warranty and is sewn in the USA. For intense sun, such as Arizona, Covercraft points buyers to its Sunbrella or WeatherShield HD covers instead. It suits drivers in wet or snowy areas who want a light cover.

    Check the current price on the manufacturer’s site or your usual retailer.

    Carhartt Work Vehicle Cover (Covercraft)

    This custom-fit cover for trucks, SUVs and vans comes from a collaboration between Covercraft and Carhartt. It uses water-resistant fabric with Rain Defender technology, which makes water bead and roll off while letting humidity escape.

    Covercraft lists protection from UV rays, rain, snow, dirt, dust, bird droppings and tree sap. Non-scratch grommets accept a lock and cable, sold separately. It is rated for indoor and outdoor use, carries a 5 year warranty and is sewn in the USA. It suits trade and work vehicles parked outside at a jobsite or yard.

    Check the current price on the manufacturer’s site or your usual retailer.

    Coverking Stormproof

    Stormproof is made to order for the exact year, make and model. Coverking uses a proprietary microfiber with water resistance built into the fiber, with no coatings or laminates to wear off. The fabric is breathable and lists protection from rain, snow, sun, dust and airborne pollutants, plus UV resistance.

    Coverking’s custom outdoor covers include non-scratch security grommets for an optional lock and cable kit. They also have vehicle-specific mirror pockets and antenna pockets or sleeves where needed. Several colors and 2-tone designs are offered. It suits drivers who want a light cover with a close fit.

    Check the current price on the manufacturer’s site or your usual retailer.

    WeatherTech Sunbrella Outdoor Car Cover

    WeatherTech makes this cover for the exact year, make, model and body style, for cars kept outside. The source here is the Ford Mustang listing, so confirm your vehicle in WeatherTech’s selector. Sunbrella is a dyed acrylic with color and UV inhibitors built in, and it is water-resistant, mold-resistant and breathable.

    WeatherTech lists protection from rain, UV, pollen, tree sap, bird droppings, salt air, frost and snow. Mirror pockets come on most applications and are confirmed at vehicle selection. The cover has an elastic hem at both ends and tie-down grommets.

    An 8 ft (2.4 m) cable with padlock is sold separately. A handled storage bag and a drawstring bag are included. Production and delivery may take 8–10 weeks. It suits cars parked in strong sun or near the coast.

    Check the current price on the manufacturer’s site or your usual retailer.

    Classic Accessories Over Drive PolyPRO 3

    This universal cover is sold by length. Sedan options run from 152 in (386 cm) to 264 in (671 cm). Its 3-layer fabric of polypropylene and polyethylene is water-repellent and breathes to reduce mold and mildew. Features include a zippered driver’s door, an elasticized hem and an antenna reinforcement patch.

    Classic Accessories rates it for indoor or outdoor use and describes it for storage and moderate weather. It has a 2-year limited warranty. It suits drivers in milder climates who want a cover sized by measurement rather than by model.

    Check the current price on the manufacturer’s site or your usual retailer.

    Frequently asked questions

    Can a car cover scratch the paint?

    It can if dirt is trapped underneath or the cover flaps in wind. Cover only a clean, dry car with a soft-lined cover. Use the hem, straps or a cable to stop movement.

    Is a waterproof car cover better for rain?

    Not always. A fully waterproof cover can trap condensation underneath. Breathable covers that shed most water let moisture escape, which helps prevent mildew and paint damage.

    Can you use an outdoor cover in snow?

    Yes, if the maker lists snow protection. Brush heavy snow off the cover before you remove it. A telescopic car cleaning brush helps reach the roof.

    Is a windshield cover enough for frost?

    A windshield-only frost and snow cover is quicker to fit than a full cover on a daily driver. It protects only the glass, so the paint and roof stay exposed to sap, droppings and sun.

    Related guides

    Sources

    • https://www.covercraft.com/product/weathershield-hp-custom-car-cover/C-CCHP
    • https://www.covercraft.com/product/carhartt-work-truck-cover/CCH
    • https://coverking.com/products/car-cover-stormproof
    • https://www.weathertech.com/sunbrella-outdoor-car-cover-ford-mustang.html
    • https://classicaccessories.com/products/over-drive-polypro-3-sedan-car-cover

    Specifications are taken from each manufacturer’s website as of October 2026 and can change. Check the manufacturer’s page before you buy.

  • Roof racks and cargo boxes: how to choose (2026 guide)

    Roof racks and cargo boxes: how to choose (2026 guide)

    To choose a roof rack and cargo box, start with your roof type and the rack maker’s fit guide. Then pick the bars, and a box that suits your gear, your roof load limit and your garage height.

    A rack and box add space for bulky, light gear such as skis, camping kit or luggage. They only work well if the rack is made for your exact roof and the total load stays within limits.

    Compare the racks and boxes

    Product Type Size / volume Max load (maker) Profile or opening Suits
    Thule WingBar Evo Crossbars 43–60 in (108–150 cm) 220 lb (100 kg) Aero, T-track Bars left on long-term, T-track accessories
    Thule SquareBar Evo Crossbars 43–60 in (108–150 cm) 220 lb (100 kg) Square steel Classic square-bar setups
    Yakima JetStream Crossbars 50, 60, 70 in not stated Aero (teardrop), T-slot Yakima tower setups
    Rhino-Rack Vortex StealthBar Crossbars Cut to roof width not stated Low, sits 1.5 in (35 mm) above rails Cars with raised rails
    Thule Motion 3 L Cargo box 16 cu ft (450 L) 165 lb (75 kg) Dual-side Luggage, skis to 71 in (180 cm)
    Yakima SkyBox NX Skinny Cargo box 12 cu ft not stated Dual-side Box plus a bike or board

    “Not stated” means the figure was not listed on the manufacturer page used. Thule’s imperial figures come from its US pages, and the metric figures in brackets come from its UK and US pages.

    How to choose a roof rack and cargo box

    Check your roof type

    Fit starts with the roof, not the bars. The common types are:

    • Naked (bare) roof: no rails. The rack clamps into the door openings with vehicle-specific pads and brackets.
    • Raised rails: rails with a gap underneath. These are the most flexible to fit.
    • Flush rails: rails that sit tight to the roof with no gap. They need a foot made for them.
    • Fixed points: hidden mounting points, often under small covers or in a trim strip.
    • Rain gutters: older vehicles and some vans have a gutter along the roof edge.

    Rail width, roof curve and door shape vary even within one type. So a rack is close to always vehicle-specific.

    Use the rack maker’s own fit guide with your exact make, model, year and body style. It tells you which feet, fit kit and bar length to buy.

    Choose aero or square crossbars

    Aero (wing or teardrop) bars are shaped to cut wind noise and drag. Many have a T-track on top for accessories.

    Square bars are usually steel, simple and strong. They tend to be noisier and may need adapters for some accessories.

    If you leave the bars on most of the time, an aero profile is the more comfortable choice on long drives.

    Work out your load limit

    There are 2 limits, and you must respect the lower one:

    1. Vehicle roof load limit. This is in your owner’s manual. It is often lower than people expect.
    2. Rack load limit. The rack maker sets this, and it can depend on the foot and fit kit.

    The rack, the box and everything inside count toward the vehicle limit. Subtract the weight of the bars, feet and empty box before you add gear.

    Some rack makers set lower limits for rough or unsealed roads, so check that guidance too. Load heavy items low and centered, and put light, bulky items in the box.

    Choose box volume and length

    Makers quote box volume in liters or cubic feet. Bigger is not always better. A large box is heavier, adds height and can block the tailgate.

    Check 2 lengths:

    • Internal length for skis or snowboards, if you carry them.
    • Rear overhang, so the tailgate can open fully. Makers often state hatch or trunk clearance on the product page.

    A narrow box leaves room on the bars for a bike or board carrier beside it.

    Check the opening, locks and mount

    Dual-side opening lets you load from the curb on either side of the road. That is safer than standing in traffic.

    Look for a lock that only releases the key when the lid is fully shut. Also look for a mount you can tighten with a knob or quick clamp rather than tools. Some mounts show when they are tight enough, which reduces the guesswork.

    Cut noise and fuel use

    Anything on the roof adds drag and some wind noise, and a box adds more than bars alone. That means higher fuel or energy use.

    The simple fix is to take the box off when you do not need it. Remove the bars too if you rarely use them.

    Store the box flat or hung on a wall. Keep a trunk organizer inside the car for everyday items, so the roof only carries trip gear.

    Check height and garage clearance

    A box can add a lot of height. Measure the total height with bars and box fitted. Stick a note on the dashboard before you use a garage, parking structure or drive-through.

    Low-profile boxes and low-mounted bars help where clearance is tight.

    What each product offers

    Thule WingBar Evo

    The WingBar Evo is Thule’s aero crossbar. It is sold as a pair in lengths from 43 to 60 in (108 to 150 cm). The 50 in (127 cm) pair is listed at 6.88 lb (3.12 kg).

    The US page lists a maximum load of 220 lb (100 kg). Thule also reminds buyers to check the vehicle’s roof load limit.

    Thule describes a TrailEdge design and WindDiffuser technology to reduce drag and noise. An upper T-track with QuickAccess interface and SwingBlade end caps takes accessories.

    Feet and a vehicle-specific fit kit are sold separately, chosen through Thule’s fit guide. It suits drivers who keep bars on for long periods and want to fit T-track accessories.

    Check the current price on the manufacturer’s site or your usual retailer.

    Thule SquareBar Evo

    The SquareBar Evo is a square-profile bar made of galvanized steel. Thule says its black polymer coating adds grip for rooftop cargo.

    It comes as a 2-pack in lengths from 43 to 60 in (108 to 150 cm). The listed maximum load is 220 lb (100 kg). The 50 in (127 cm) version is listed at 7.05 lb (3.2 kg).

    Thule says the bars are compatible with most of its roof boxes and carriers that support square bar mounting adapters. You need a compatible foot pack and fitting kit.

    It suits buyers who want a simple, sturdy bar and do not mind a traditional profile.

    Check the current price on the manufacturer’s site or your usual retailer.

    Yakima JetStream

    JetStream crossbars are sold in pairs in 3 sizes: 50, 60 and 70 in. Yakima describes a JetFlow teardrop shape and extruded aluminum with JetTruss internal support. The T-slot has SmartFill push-down infill for mounting accessories, and the bars come in black or silver.

    Yakima lists the pair at 8.5 lb (small), 10.5 lb (medium) or 12.5 lb (large). The bars fit any Yakima StreamLine tower. Add the towers and fit kit that Yakima’s fit tool lists for your car.

    The product page used did not list a load rating, so check the tower and fit kit documentation. It suits buyers building a Yakima system.

    Check the current price on the manufacturer’s site or your usual retailer.

    Rhino-Rack Vortex StealthBar

    The Vortex StealthBar is a low-profile rack for vehicles with factory raised rails. Rhino-Rack says it sits 1.5 in (35 mm) above the rails and is removable. Each side has 2 in (50 mm) of adjustability.

    The bars carry a VGS strip that Rhino-Rack says greatly reduces wind noise. Rhino-Rack lists the system as suitable for light off-road use and tested to Australian AS1235-2000 standards.

    The flush Vortex bars are cut to an exact length set by the width of the vehicle’s roof. This kit pairs a 33.3 in (845 mm) bar and a 35.6 in (905 mm) bar. Use Rhino-Rack’s vehicle search to find the right kit.

    The page used did not list a load rating, so check the fitting instructions for your kit. It suits vehicles with factory raised rails where low clearance matters.

    Check the current price on the manufacturer’s site or your usual retailer.

    Thule Motion 3 L

    The Motion 3 L is a 16 cu ft (450 L) box on Thule’s US page. It measures 76.5 x 34.2 x 16.5 in (194 x 87 x 42 cm) and weighs 43.6 lb (20 kg). Its load capacity is 165 lb (75 kg), and it takes skis up to 71 in (180 cm).

    The box opens from both sides. The SlideLock system separates locking from opening and shows when the lid is shut securely.

    The PowerClick mount has an integrated torque indicator that clicks when the box is fitted correctly. Thule says the forward position gives full trunk access with minimal risk of contact with the box.

    It suits general luggage plus skis up to 71 in (180 cm).

    Check the current price on the manufacturer’s site or your usual retailer.

    Yakima SkyBox NX Skinny

    The SkyBox NX Skinny is a narrow box: 12 cu ft, 84 in long, 26.5 in wide and 16 in high. It weighs 43 lb. Yakima says the narrow shape leaves crossbar space for other gear. It takes skis and snowboards up to 77 in (195 cm).

    The box opens from both sides, has a full metal handle and comes with SKS locks. The universal mounting hardware fits Yakima StreamLine crossbars as well as factory and aerodynamic bars. It uses a removable torque-limiting knob, and Yakima also lists optimized hatch clearance.

    It suits drivers who want a box and a bike or board carrier on the roof at the same time.

    Check the current price on the manufacturer’s site or your usual retailer.

    Frequently asked questions

    Can you fit a roof rack to a car without rails?

    Often yes. Many makers offer clamp-style feet for naked roofs that grip the door openings. The pads and brackets are specific to each model, so check the rack maker’s fit guide for your exact vehicle.

    How much weight can a roof carry?

    Use the lower of the vehicle’s roof load limit (in the owner’s manual) and the rack’s limit. Subtract the weight of the bars, feet and box before adding cargo.

    Do roof boxes fit any crossbars?

    Most boxes fit common aero and square bars. Check the box maker’s list of compatible bars, the bar spread and any adapters needed.

    Will a roof box block the tailgate?

    It can. Check the maker’s hatch or trunk clearance note, and position the box as far forward as the instructions allow. Test the tailgate before driving.

    Can a roof box go through a car wash?

    Check the box and rack instructions first. Automatic washes can catch on roof loads, so removing the box or washing by hand is the safer choice. A car cleaning kit helps with that.

    Related guides

    Sources

    • https://www.thule.com/en-gb/roof-rack/roof-racks-and-accessories/thule-wingbar-evo-127-_-711300
    • https://www.thule.com/en-us/roof-rack/roof-racks-and-accessories/thule-wingbar-evo-127-_-711300
    • https://www.thule.com/en-gb/roof-rack/roof-racks-and-accessories/thule-squarebar-evo-127-_-712300
    • https://www.thule.com/en-us/roof-rack/roof-racks-and-accessories/thule-squarebar-evo-127-_-712300
    • https://yakima.com/products/jetstream
    • https://www.rhinorack.com/en-us/products/roof-racks/cross-bar-roof-racks/vortex/vortex-stealthbar-black-2-bar-roof-rack_ja7969
    • https://www.thule.com/en-gb/cargo-carrier/car-top-carrier/thule-motion-3-l-_-639700
    • https://www.thule.com/en-us/cargo-carrier/car-top-carrier/thule-motion-3-l-_-639751
    • https://yakima.com/products/skybox-nx-skinny

    Specifications are taken from each manufacturer’s website as of October 2026 and can change. Check the manufacturer’s page and fit guide before you buy.