I've had my X-fire for just under a year. Broke 1,000 miles last week (I think it's 1,009 miles now) Obviously not my daily driver and has never been driven in the rain or snow. However, having the luck of owning several toys, I have run out of indoor storage space. Therefore, the X-fire stays parked outside with a California Car Cover "Superweave". It's the best cover I've ever owned. It can rain all day, I can lift a corner of the cover and watch the water roll off. It is about 99 percent waterproof, very, very lightweight and breathable. I've had the X-fire parked for 3 weeks straight, numerous rains/storms etc., take the cover off and it looks like I just washed it. It also fits like a glove, nothing sloppy or baggy.

I NEVER put the cover on without a pre-wash, either a full wash after a drive, or at least a California Car Cover Duster pass and a "final inspection" wipe after just sitting. Yes, the key is to have NO dust particles under the cover. It acts just like sandpaper.

Of Course, I don't take the cover off too often, so it's not too big of a hassle. As mentioned before, if you roll from front to back, then fold and do the same everytime, taking off and putting on is a breeze. Also, I have washed it 2-3 times at home in my home machine without a hitch.

As far as keeping the cover on, I do use a cover cable and lock. I also use the built in "loops" where I tied a string from one side that gets clipped with a plastic clip to the other side. As an added wind proof measure, I bought cheap plastic tarp clips that I added another string that goes across left to right under the front end. I have never had a problem with wind.

According to California Cover's webpage..."Now available in 8 new colors. Choose from black, bright blue, sky blue, green, grey, red, taupe and yellow. You can also mix-and-match any two fabric colors to customize your cover, with the top panel in one color and the side panels in the second color. Superweave features a variety of benefits, including unsurpassed moisture and pollutant/dust protection. Additionally, it's exceptionally breathable, allowing moisture and heat to escape. Considered to be one of our top-of-the-line car cover fabrics. It is the only material that can be washed and dried in your home machines. It features a limited four-year warranty."

PS, for what it is worth, after Griots Garage multi-step paint cleaning/wax, using the cover, my X-fire always looks SPOTLESS when I uncover it. I do not believe I will suffer any sun fade, headlight fogging or UV damage to the interior or rubber parts. That makes the hassle worth it to me.