Will a Car Cover Protect Against Hail?

When hail strikes, the damage can be both sudden and costly—especially for your vehicle. While the best protection is always a garage, many drivers are left wondering: Can a car cover actually protect my car from hail? The short answer is yes—but with some important limitations.

In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about using a car cover to guard against hail. We’ll start by breaking down what hail is and how it damages vehicles, then move into the benefits of using a car cover for hail protection. Next, we’ll help you choose the right type of car cover, share alternative methods to protect your car in a pinch, and finally, wrap up with a realistic conclusion about what a car cover can and can't do.

For quick answers, don’t miss our Common Questions About Car Covers and Hail—a helpful section that covers what you need to know most.

What is Hail and How Does it Damage Cars?

Hail is a form of frozen precipitation that forms during strong thunderstorms. As water droplets are carried upward into extremely cold areas of the atmosphere, they freeze and grow into solid balls of ice. These hailstones can range in size from small pebbles to golf balls—or even larger—and when they fall, they can cause serious damage to anything in their path.

For vehicles, hail can lead to:

• Dents and dings on the roof, hood, and trunk
• Cracked or shattered windshields and mirrors
• Paint damage and chipped surfaces
• Expensive repairs or even insurance claims

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), hail causes over $1 billion in property damage each year in the U.S. alone—much of that affecting vehicles.

Benefits of Using a Car Cover for Hail Protection

While not as protective as a garage, a car cover does provide a significant buffer between your vehicle and falling hailstones. Here’s how:

1. Reduces Direct Impact

A quality car cover acts as a first line of defense, absorbing and dispersing some of the energy from hail impacts. While it won’t completely stop large hail, it can prevent smaller hailstones (typically up to the size of a nickel) from making direct contact with your paintwork.

2. Minimizes Dents and Scratches

Even a thin layer of protection can reduce the severity of cosmetic damage. A cover helps prevent surface scratches, cracked paint, and even damage to plastic or glass components during minor hail events.

3. Saves Money on Repairs

Hail damage can be expensive—paintless dent removal, window replacements, and repainting costs add up fast. A durable car cover can be a smart investment that saves you hundreds (or thousands) in repairs over time.

4. Guards Against Other Environmental Threats

Beyond hail, car covers protect your vehicle from UV rays, rain, snow, dust, sap, bird droppings, and more. They keep your car looking new and help preserve resale value.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Car Cover for Hail Protection

Not all car covers are created equal—especially when it comes to hail. Here are the top considerations to keep in mind:

1. Material

Look for multi-layer covers with padded or quilted designs. Polyester or oxford fabric with a thick inner lining (such as EVA foam) can help absorb impacts. The more cushioning, the better the protection.

2. Size and Fit

A snug, custom-fit cover provides better protection than a loose or oversized one. It minimizes movement in the wind and ensures the entire vehicle is covered properly.

3. Ease of Use

Some covers come with quick-strap systems or built-in elastic hems. These features make it easy to secure the cover, even during surprise storms.

4. Cost vs. Quality

While you don’t need the most expensive option, avoid the cheapest ones, too. Do your research and look for customer reviews that mention hail protection. Sometimes, spending a little more upfront pays off in long-term savings.

Alternative Methods for Protecting Your Car from Hail Damage

If you don’t have a car cover—or hail strikes unexpectedly—consider these backup options:

1. Park in a Garage or Covered Area

Whenever possible, get under a roof. Garages, carports, or even gas stations can provide immediate protection.

2. Park Beside a Tall Building

Use a structure to block the wind and falling hail. Parking on the leeward side (the side opposite the wind) of a tall building can reduce exposure significantly.

3. Use a Blanket or Thick Comforter

A heavy blanket thrown over your car can help soften the blow of small hailstones. Focus on vulnerable areas like the roof, hood, and windows.

4. Use Cardboard or Floor Mats

In a pinch, household items like cardboard boxes, yoga mats, or even floor mats can offer temporary protection. Just make sure to secure them so they don’t blow away.

Conclusion

So, will a car cover protect your car against hail? The answer is: yes—within reason. A car cover can provide effective protection against small hail, typically up to the size of a nickel. While it won’t stop golf-ball-sized hail from causing damage, it can reduce the risk of dents, scratches, and cracked glass from lighter storms.

For the best results:

• Choose a cover made with thick, impact-absorbing materials
• Make sure it fits your vehicle properly
• Combine it with other emergency strategies when needed

At the end of the day, a car cover is a simple, affordable tool that adds a valuable layer of defense—especially when a garage isn't an option.

Common Questions About Car Covers and Hail

1. Can a car cover really protect my car from hail?

Yes, a high-quality car cover can protect your vehicle from small hailstones, typically up to the size of a nickel. It adds a cushioning layer that absorbs some of the impact, reducing dents and scratches.

2. What type of car cover is best for hail protection?

Look for a multi-layer cover made from durable materials like polyester or oxford fabric with inner padding, such as EVA foam. These are specifically designed to absorb hail impacts better than thin or basic covers.

3. Will a car cover protect my windshield from cracking during a hailstorm?

It can help minimize the risk if the hail is small, but for larger hailstones, a car cover alone may not be enough. Using additional protection (like a folded blanket under the cover) can add more cushioning for windshields.

4. Can I use any car cover for hail protection?

Not all car covers are made for hail. Standard covers may only protect against dust, UV rays, and rain. Choose a hail-resistant cover with thick padding specifically designed for impact protection.

5. How much does a hail-resistant car cover cost?

Prices vary, but you can expect to pay between $100 and $300 for a high-quality, hail-resistant car cover. While it’s an investment, it can save you thousands in potential repair costs.

6. Is it better to park under a tree or use a car cover during a hailstorm?

Avoid parking under trees, as falling branches during a storm can cause more damage than hail. A hail-rated car cover or parking near a tall building or covered area is a safer choice.

7. What if I don’t have a car cover when hail starts?

In emergencies, you can use household items like blankets, cardboard boxes, or floor mats to protect your car. Focus on the roof, hood, and windshield—areas most vulnerable to damage.

8. Can I use a car cover in all weather conditions?

Yes. Most car covers are multi-purpose and protect your vehicle from UV rays, rain, snow, bird droppings, tree sap, and dust—making them ideal for year-round use, not just hail protection.

9. Will using a car cover affect my car’s paint?

Not if you use it correctly. Always clean your car before covering it and choose a cover with a soft inner lining to avoid scratching the paint. Avoid trapping moisture underneath the cover.

10. Can car covers prevent all hail damage?

No, but they can greatly reduce minor to moderate damage. Car covers are best at protecting against small hail. For severe storms, a garage or covered parking is still the most reliable solution.