The new se lives out in the elements of central Florida. My wife compulsively removes every speck of dirt, twig of leaf. A car cover is in order here. Any suggestions? thanks
The only time I use a car cover is when the weather forecast includes hail. So when looking for a car cover for my SE, I wanted one that fit well and had multiple layers to soften the impact of the hail. A year ago I was going to order a CoverKing car cover because they are custom-fitted to each car and they offer multi-layered fabrics that offer cushioning against impacts. However, when I told CoverKing that instead of an ICE MINI Cooper, I had a MINI Cooper SE, they wouldn't guarantee it would fit because the grille protrudes more than the grille on an ICE MINI Cooper. I'd be surprised if these covers are so tight that they couldn't accommodate the SE's slight additional front-end bulge, but I ended up not buying one for a different reason. I couldn't talk them into reducing the height of the sleeve that goes over the antenna to match the shortie "sport" antenna I installed on my SE. I didn't want a floppy sleeve (how's that for picky?). Because they're made-to-order, I was surprised they couldn't make that small change for me. I still may get one.
I am the same, after washing the SE, for the next couple of days, I will be picking off every speck of dirt and wiping off any hand print off, even with the SE living inside the garage. Until I bring the SE to another remote off-road trip and bring her in for another wash after
I wanted some snow protection along with the typical dust, as my SE may be parked under a carport for months. I bought a Platinum Shield cover from CarCovers, it seemed to be the highest rated at the time although pricey. They listed a 2021 SE fitment. It fits OK, a little baggy, not a custom but functional. It has plenty of elastic at the bottom front and back to hold it in place and the usual cord to route under the chassis for some wind protection. It comes down to nearly ground level, plenty of fabric. The fabric is strong, reflective, with a soft liner, well made, a little bulky. Its probably overkill for casual purposes. When the weather clears a bit, I'll take a photo. I've used lightweight car covers on my Vette for years. This one is a bit bulky for casual/quick mall/work parking lot use.
ColdCase Thanks for you insights and photos I was trending toward CarCovers and you pushed me over the brink. Ordered a cover from them. Will give an update as they arrive. For those following, there is a company CarCover, without the pleural s. They don't seem to have the reputation of CarCovers.com
The carcovers.com cover arrived the same week as ordered. Coldcase posted pics The cover is well constructed, fits as pictured and described by ColdCase, and with a very soft inner liner. As ColdCase noted, it is bulky for casual use. But, for prolonged coverage or inclement weather with hail or blown debris it will be just what I wanted. To others on the forum, if you are looking for a cover, I would have no hesitation in ordering from this company.
Do they make covers with a hole on the side for the charging port? I have a countryman PHEV and can’t for the life of me find a cover that would allow charging while in use.
I think they will customize a hole, but won't like it. They claim holes and mirror pockets compromise the strength, making for weak points where tearing can start. I forgot to mention that I installed a very very short stubby antenna to avoid cutting a hole for the OEM. I never listen to the radio, so that may not work for everyone.
If the cover is as loose on the Countryman as it is on the Cooper you should be able to fit the charger under the cover without the need for a hole. Take a look at ColdCase's pictures.
Maybe I'll order one now that you've verified it works with an SE. Thanks! I'll have to shorten the antenna-sock portion to fit my shorter MINI Sport Aerial--the sock would look silly flopped over like a used condom.
I would use a car cover primarily for protection from bird crap and tree droppings. Wouldn't I have to clean those things on a cover? Which is easier, washing the car or washing the cover?
Car-cover manufacturers have an opportunity here. They should offer packs of rip-off plastic top-shields to protect the car covers protecting the cars. We all need more disposable plastic items, right?
