I am storing my Z under a carport with three exposed sides. The area doesn't seem to get extreem wind exposure, but on occasion does get good gusts. I was misinformed about the Nissan cover I just purchased (ordered about a week ago and was told it had a soft cloth type interior surface). And now am down to the wire on storing. The cover is basically a vinyl material and is specifically cut for the Z...so wind flap should be minimal if I get it snugged up well, but how much should I worry about the finish? This is the only winter I shouldn't have a garage available for it, and plan to put a coat or two of wax on tomorrow before I store it...but am wondering if I am likely to see any serious damage to the clearcoat come next Spring? Should I consider buying some cheap cotton bed sheets and laying them over her prior to the cover? Or will that just trap moisture?

Looking for feedback, thanks.

 

I would not use that plastic cover on the car for any extended period of time. What I would do is buy a softer cover from the California Car Cover Company (they have many materials, I own two of their covers, one in the Stormweave and one in the Noah material, both custom cut) and put the softer cover next to the paint and then put the cover you have now on top of that and then strap it all down.

 

Kevin,

Approximately how much do either of those covers cost? I put a good coat of wax on and put her under cover for the time being with the one I mentioned. I am quite satisfied with how it fits and it's snugness (is that a word?)...but am still a little apprehensive. I really don't believe it will flap much and this is the only winter my Z won't have a garage of it's own, so am also slow to buy another cover that won't serve much purpose after this year.

Thanks

 

Mine cost about 200 to 250 range each.

 

So your saying the Nissan car cover has a plastic lining??? I thought it was a soft lining??

I remember reading a while back that the Nissan cover is the best bet going for 198.00.

Please explain??

 

Well, unless there is more than one Nissan cover...I am saying "yes" it has no soft inner liner. The one I bought is grey, has a plastic grommets in the middle of it (by each door edge) for sinching tight, and has the "Z" logo along with the print "Nissan" on the front of the cover. It also has the higher temp melt point material sewn into it right where there is contact with the exhaust tips and a clear plastic window right where the license is. I'd have to look at my receipt...but I think my dealer charged me $219 or something like that. Now if you are telling me there is more than one Nissan option...I'd like to know, because I specifically asked about the inside of the liner and was led to believe myself that it was different than what I got. Might just have to call myself..but don't expect to get any more info. than I might here...I swear the dealerships know much less than what is available on this board! AND the info. here is typically much more reliable!

 

I asked teh same question, and can honestly tell you that there is only one (1) cover sold for the 350Z by Nissan. I have stored mine for a month w/o any problems as I was travelling on business. I placed an old satin sheet on my z b4 I placed the cover on...and voila..after 2 months of storage...my 350Z still shines like the North Star!!!

 

Wow! Satin? What was the thread count? I guess nothing is too good for our Z's, huh?

Mine's been under cover for nearly two months now...I checked on her, and no buff marks anywhere...I'm sure all will be fine.

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Driven
[B]Well, unless there is more than one Nissan cover...I am saying "yes" it has no soft inner liner. The one I bought is grey, has a plastic grommets in the middle of it (by each door edge) for sinching tight, and has the "Z" logo along with the print "Nissan" on the front of the cover. It also has the higher temp melt point material sewn into it right where there is contact with the exhaust tips and a clear plastic window right where the license is.

Driven is correct, this is the only Nissan factory cover at this time. It is made of a sort of nylon composit "woven" material that provides breathability, water resistance and light weight. It is a nice cover and probably the best for the 350Z at this time because of the exact tailored fit. I don't believe it will scratch the finish at all. Storing outside is the problem, not the cover. Moisture, sun and wind are the enemy to a car usually from the INSIDE out.

Storing inside on a dry or protected surface is the key to longevity. Keep it DRY!

FWIW

 

I've heard that stroing teh car outside even with cover on is a bad idea when it rains...does this still hold true if only for a short time..say 2 weeks??? My car is usually left outside with the cover on...will rain cause any damage??? I'm thinking of now just renting a garage to levae parked if gone for over a month...

 

Speaking of storing your Z under a car cover... When you use the car cover, does it have to be installed on a freshly cleaned Z? I would imagine if its really dirty that wouldnt be a wise choice since you'll probably scratch the paint as the cover lays on the dirt. I guess the question becomes how clean does it have to be?? Use your own judgement?? I heard people come home from using the car and cover it... but is that really a good idea if you just dirtied it driving?

Sorry... new to whole car cover idea

 

Yes, you are correct...if there is significant dirt on the car...the car cover can do some damage by buffing the surface now with an abrasive. But...don't you cover your car to prevent the dust/dirt from collecting on it? Why would you want to cover it if it is dirty already? Common sense would suggest that if you just spent 5 hrs. washing and waxing and are not going for a drive in the near future....cover it. If you just finished detailing it and only went for a ride on a nice dry sunny day....well, dust it and then cover it. If you just went out on a wet day and drove through a dusty construction site....or went on a couple day trip and the car is filthy dirty....why the hell are you considering covering it in the first place?? You have to clean it for the cover to serve any purpose at all! Its not like it is a comforter for your baby in cold weather and she'll be happier/more comfortable with it on.