Best Tips to Protect Your Car Without a Garage in New Bedford
When you contact an MA auto insurance agent to get an auto insurance quote, you were likely asked where the vehicle would be garaged. Many agencies offer discounts for car owners who have access to a covered garage for parking. A garage provides excellent coverage and reduces risks for exposure, damage, and theft. Your Massachusetts auto insurance provider can tell you the difference in cost for a premium with garage parking and without so you can get an idea of the discount. However, if you do not have a garage or access to a garage for parking, you might wonder what you can do to increase your protection. While it might not make you eligible for a discount with your auto insurance in New Bedford, MA, it could help to extend the life of the paint job and help keep your car looking great for many years to come.
Purchase a Car Cover
Don’t just get one of those one-size-fits-all car covers from the local mega-mart, get a car cover that is designed for the make and model of your vehicle. While it could be argued that most sports cars, sedans, trucks, and SUVs have similar body styles, you will get the best coverage if you purchase a car cover from the dealership or order online for your specific needs.
A car cover can provide you with protection from:
- wind
- rain
- hard water stains from sprinklers
- snow
- ice
- falling debris
- sun damage
- heat
Some car covers might even be able to protect from hail and other types of weather conditions or damage. Check the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure that you install the car cover correctly and store it according to recommendations to keep it in good shape when not in use. Make sure that the car cover you choose fits properly so it won’t blow away with the first big wind.
Build a Carport
If you own your own home or rent from an owner who will let you do it, consider building a carport cover. You can even purchase a temporary car cover from most auto stores or online resources for as little as $150. While not durable enough to stand up to a New England Nor’easter, a temporary tent shelter is perfect to protect your car from sun damage and heat in the summer months. If you decide to build a carport, make sure to speak with the city or community that you live in to make sure that it is approved. Building permits will likely be required for any permanent structure, so take all the necessary steps to ensure that you don’t violate any codes or regulations. Consider hiring a professional if you are not handy with construction projects beyond putting together Scandinavian furniture.
Do Some Yardwork
If you park your vehicle in the driveway, check to make sure that there aren’t any natural hazards that could cause damage. Overhanging trees, bushes, and other landscaping are common culprits for vehicle claims. Even if the tree looks healthy, consider removing any branches that hang over your driveway or relocate the tree so it can’t fall over onto your vehicle in a storm. Consult with a tree specialist if you aren’t sure about the best way to handle trimming or removing any tree.
You should also take better care of your vehicle, washing it regularly to remove dirt, grime, and other debris. These materials can eat away at your paint and make your car look older than it should. Waxing your vehicle is another important part of proper maintenance that many vehicle owners overlook. Regular waxing provides an extra layer of protection and prevents debris from sticking to it, reducing the number of washes that you will have to perform each year. Consider getting a car wash and wax package from a local service so you will be encouraged to bring your vehicle in once a week for cleaning and polishing.
Check Your Policy
Contact Borden Auto Insurance in New Bedford, MA to go over your policy. Your local MA auto insurance agent might have even more ideas that you can use to protect your vehicle. You can also get a FREE Massachusetts auto insurance quote if you are thinking about switching providers. We have over 100 years of experience in providing quality insurance products to clients throughout Southeastern Massachusetts, and we can help you find the solution that is best for you, your vehicle and your budget. Give us a call at 508-999-3636.