0% intro APR for 15 months from account openi… Chase Freedom Unlimited® Credit Card Calculators How we make money
VOATLAS
How to Pay for a Custom Car Cover Without Interest

How to · Auto

How to Pay for a Custom Car Cover Without Interest

Protect your car from the winter elements by spreading the cost of a high-end cover over a year and a half.

Typical cost $350 before anything else
Across the 0% window $19.44/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $350 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

A good car is usually your second biggest expense. Between the gas, the insurance, and the oil changes, it adds up fast. But the real cost is the depreciation that happens when you let the paint sit under snow, salt, and sun for months. A custom-fitted cover is the best way to keep that value where it belongs.

Prices for these covers usually stay flat year-round, but the best time to buy is late summer or early fall. You want it in your garage before the first frost hits. We can look at how to get a $350 cover now and pay it off slowly so it does not hit your monthly budget all at once.

This plan only works if you zero out the balance before the clock runs out. After those 18 months, the interest rate will jump to the standard variable APR, and that $350 cover will suddenly start costing you much more every month.

The steps

  1. 01

    Find the right fit

    Look for a cover made specifically for your make and model. Universal covers tend to flap in the wind, which can actually scratch your paint. Check reviews for breathability so moisture does not get trapped underneath.

  2. 02

    Negotiate the extras

    If you are buying from a dealership or a high-end detailer, ask for a discount on the storage bag or a cable lock. These items are high-margin, and sellers often throw them in to close a $350 sale. They might say no, but it never hurts to ask.

  3. 03

    Use the 18-month window

    Put the purchase on a Citi Simplicity® Credit Card (Citi). You get 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. This lets you turn a one-time $350 hit into a $19.44 monthly payment.

  4. 04

    Prep the paint

    Never put a cover on a dirty car. Even a thin layer of dust acts like sandpaper when the cover moves. Give it a full wash and a fresh coat of wax before you tuck it away for the season.

  5. 05

    Set a recurring reminder

    Check on the car every few weeks. Rodents love the warmth of a covered engine bay, and a quick inspection can save you thousands in wiring repairs later. Make sure the cover is still snug and dry.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

Does a cover cause rust?

It can if you buy a cheap plastic one that traps humidity. High-quality custom covers are made of breathable fabric that lets moisture escape while keeping rain out.

Can I use an indoor cover outside?

No, they are built differently. Indoor covers focus on dust protection and softness, while outdoor versions have UV protection and water-shedding layers to handle the weather.

Is it worth the extra money for custom fit?

Yes, because a loose cover acts like a sail. If the wind catches it, the fabric will rub against your clear coat and leave hazy swirl marks that cost more to fix than the cover itself.

What happens if I miss a payment?

You will likely lose your promotional rate and get hit with late fees. Always set up autopay for at least the minimum, though you should aim for the $19.44 to be done on time.