A standard sedan is best covered by a 12-by-20-foot tarp. This size provides ample length and side margin, while remaining manageable. If you have a longer sedan or want extra margin for wind and secure tie-downs, larger tarps are available, such as 16x20, 18x24, or 20x30.
To pick the right tarp, you should consider the car’s typical dimensions (length and width), how much overhang you want at the front, rear, and sides, and the weather conditions in your area. Sedans generally run about 15–16 feet long and 5.5–6 feet wide, so choosing a tarp a bit larger than those measurements gives you reliable coverage and easier securing.
Common tarp sizes and how they fit a sedan
Below are sizes you’ll commonly find in stores and how they work with a typical sedan (approximately 15–16 feet long and 5.5–6 feet wide).
- 12 ft × 20 ft tarp: The standard go-to for most sedans. It typically provides about 2–3 feet of overhang at the front and rear and several feet of margin on the sides, making it easy to tie down and secure.
- 16 ft × 20 ft tarp: Longer option that covers longer sedans or gives more room for securing the edges in windy conditions. Width allows several feet of side overhang.
- 18 ft × 24 ft tarp: Very roomy; ideal if you want extra margin to tie around the vehicle or if you may need to cover a sedan with large mirrors or roof racks, or to provide robust rain protection.
- 20 ft × 30 ft tarp: Oversized; can cover multiple cars or provide substantial shelter for heavy rain or snow, often used when storing more than one vehicle or needing heavy-duty coverage.
In brief, 12x20 is the typical sweet spot for a standard sedan, with 16x20 offering more margin for longer cars or harsher weather, and 18x24 or 20x30 giving expansive coverage for special needs or larger vehicles.
How to measure your sedan to pick a tarp size
Follow these steps to ensure you choose a tarp that will fully cover your vehicle with adequate overhang:
- Measure bumper-to-bumper length to determine the car’s overall length.
- Add 2–4 feet of margin to both length and width to ensure the tarp can hang over the edges and be tied down securely.
- Compare your target measurements to common tarp sizes (12x20, 16x20, 18x24, 20x30) and select the smallest option that accommodates your measurements.
Note: For extended coverage in snow or heavy rain, choose a thicker material (6–8 mil poly or reinforced vinyl) and prepare for secure tie-downs using grommets or reinforced edges.
Summary
For a typical sedan, start with a 12-by-20-foot tarp for reliable coverage and easy handling. If your car is longer or you want extra margin for wind and securing points, step up to 16-by-20 feet or larger options such as 18-by-24 or 20-by-30. Always measure your vehicle first and allow some overhang to ensure full coverage and secure attachment.