After reading the detailing 101 thread and others, I am little concerned about the idea of using a car cover. Unless the car has just been cleaned, the cover will be making contact with paint that has dust, dirt, etc. If there is dirt on the car, I assume the risk of scratches or swirl marks is increased. I will be taking delivery of my first BMW in the middle of May and want to make sure I am taking car of it in the best possible way right from the start. I have never used a car cover before and thought the idea was a good one until reading threads on this forum. Does anyone use a cover on daily basis? Are they not recommended?

I use mine eveyday at work.But make sure the car is clean.Also dont get it wet.It stinks in the trunk.I have had it for about 3 years now,they are a good investment.
Martin

Car covers work well if: 1) the car isn't dirty, 2) the cover isn't dirty 3) there's not alot of wind and 4) you don't mind spending the time to CA duster the car before you cover it and allow the car to cool down before covering.

Scratches generally come from the cheaper car covers where the construction isn't what it should be (metal grommits, rips/tears easily, not lined inside) or from dust getting/being left between the cover and the car and wind turning it into sandpaper. Properly used, they will protect your car, but I for one don't have the patience to do all that on a daily driver.

Thanks for the information. Considering the fact that my car will be parked much of time in a windy area, I think I might forgo the idea of a car cover. Thanks again.