What to Look for in a Car Cover for Australia

 

In Australia, you know our weather isn’t messing around and your assets need protection so let’s have a look at what to look for in a car cover for Australia. Blazing sun, unexpected storms, and yep—hail that can leave your car looking like a golf ball—are all part of the package.

Car Covers for Australia

Back in the 1990’s, finding a car cover to suit Australian conditions that would not damage your car was impossible. A range of car covers were designed and fully assessed to ensure they protected against sun, rain, dust and animals and trees debris with a soft interior to protect paintwork. These were an enormous success, and they gained the support of Australian car owners. A need was identified for covers that would protect against Australia’s violent hailstorms and a further range of Hail protection covers were introduced at the turn of the century.

Like all good Australian innovations, several businesses introduced car covers in competition. Many of these businesses supply covers from their overseas headquarters but trade under names like Australia Car Covers, (Click to check their one-star reviews). Other businesses like some of our big auto stores, have made copies of the original Australian-tested and proved car covers but used inferior materials and at lower prices.

Since 1992, Autotecnica has been the leading supplier of car covers designed for the Australian market. While the covers are not manufactured in Australia, the Autotecnica designs are fully tested for Australian conditions and only available in Australia.

Don’t be Fooled with Foreign-Supplied Car Covers or Locally Supplied Inferior Imitations

Australian vehicle owners have trusted Autotecnica covers since 1992. They know they are buying a quality cover that will perform under Australian conditions so don’t be fooled with inferior products. Best prices on the full Autotecnica Car Cover Ranges can be found here at Car Covers and Shelter.

If you’re shopping for a car cover, don’t just grab the first one with a low-price tag or slick marketing. Here’s what you need to look for to protect your car without wasting a cent.

1. UV Resistance: Because Our Sun Is Brutal

Australian sun exposure is brutal and relentless. If your cover doesn’t advertise genuine UV resistance, it’s going to fade, crack, or let your paint sit baked for months.

1.      Look for: Materials that specifically block UV rays, not just “sun protection” fluff.

2.      Why it matters: UV rays break down paint and interiors over time. A good cover is your first line of defence.

2. Waterproof Car Cover but Breathable: Stop Moisture Drama

Wait, waterproof and breathable? Yes, it’s a thing—and if you skip this, prepare for a nasty surprise.

1.      The problem: Waterproof covers keep rain out but can trap condensation underneath. That moisture buildup leads to mould, mildew, and worse—paint damage.

2.      The solution: Look for covers made with anti-condensation air breathers or a breathable fabric. A breathable fabric, however, almost by definition, will only be “water-resistant,” it will eventually let the rain through. A good car cover must allow moisture to escape but keep water from soaking your car.

3. Cover for Car, A Snug, Secure Fit: No Flapping Around in the Wind, What to Look for in a Car Cover for Australia

Cheap, generic covers might just sit there… or they might flap and flap every windy day, rubbing harshly against your paint and wearing out fast.

1.      What you want: A cover that is a good fit to your vehicle’s make and model. It should have adjustable straps and elastic hems to secure it tightly to the vehicle.

2.      Why: A loose cover is a cover that’s doing more damage than good. Grit and dust can get under the cover and cause scratching.

4. Soft Inner Lining: Paint Protection You Don’t See, But Feel

A cover that’s tough on the outside but rough on the inside? That’s a recipe for scratches and swirl marks.

1.      Check for: A soft, non-abrasive lining—usually fleece or felt—that cushions and shields your car’s paint.

2.      Beware: Marketing claims don’t always mention lining. Ask or check the product specs.

5. Hail Protection: Don’t Treat It Like Just Another Weather Event

If you live in a hail-prone area which is now most of Australia, don’t skimp on padding.

1.      What to look for: Covers with a thick, padded middle layer, especially over the roof and bonnet where hail hits hardest.

2.      Everyday use: Multi-layer fabric covers can do a solid job for sun and rain, but they won’t save you from serious hail damage.

Car Inside Cover, Outside Car Cover or Hail Protection Car Cover

The Autotecnica range of car covers were first to develop exceptionally well-priced indoor showroom covers, all-weather car covers and the speciality range of Hail Protection Car Covers. All the above points will apply to a quality Autotecnica car cover.

What to Look for in a Car Cover for Australia: Multi-Layer vs. Specialised Hail Covers

1.      Multi-layer fabric covers: Great all-rounders for everyday protection against sun, dust, and light rain. They usually combine UV resistance with some degree of water protection and breathability.

2.      Specialised hail covers: These packs serious padding to absorb the impact of hailstones. They’re bulkier and more expensive but worth every cent if hail regularly threatens your area.

Practical Car Cover Buying Checklist for Australia

1.      ✅ UV Resistant: Confirm real, certified UV protection.

2.      ✅ Waterproof & Breathable: Look for fabrics that manage moisture well.

3.      ✅ Snug Fit: Tailored or adjustable to your car.

4.      ✅ Soft Inner Lining: Non-abrasive material to protect paint.

5.      ✅ Hail Padding (if needed): Thick, cushioned layers for high-risk areas.

6.      ✅ Durability: Check reviews or specs about wear and tear resistance.

7.      ✅ Easy Installation: Should be quick to put on and take off.

8.      ✅ Secure Fastening: Elastic, straps, or buckles to keep it put.

Don’t Get Fooled with Foreign-Supplied Car Covers or Locally Supplied Inferior Imitations

There’s an ocean of car covers claiming “best protection” or “best-grade” materials but delivering little more than a thin plastic sheet. In Australia, your cover needs to manage extreme sun exposure, sudden downpours, and hail—not just keep dust off.

If a product isn’t upfront about UV ratings, waterproof and breathable fabric, or secure fit details, assume it’s not up to scratch. Stick to the original proven brand of Autotecnica Car Covers.

What to Look for in a Car Cover for Australia, Summary

A quality car cover is a small investment compared to costly paintwork repairs or hail damage. The key is knowing what specs really make a difference in Australian conditions—and then backing a product that meets them.

Don’t just buy a “cover”—buy the right cover. Take a moment to vet materials, fit, and padding, and never ignore your local weather quirks and your local Australian supplier.

Your car deserves it. Your wallet will thank you.

Looking for trusted car covers made to withstand Australia’s harshest elements? Shop smart, Shop Australian and Autotecnica Car Covers.