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The Ford Transit Connect is a dependable and versatile van, but without the right protection, daily exposure to sun, rain, snow, and dust can wear it down faster than you’d expect. Many owners buy a van cover thinking it will solve the problem, only to find it doesn’t fit properly. Even being an inch off in measurement can leave parts of your van exposed or create slack that flaps in the wind, scuffing the paint.
A tailor-fit van cover for the Ford Transit Connect is designed to match every curve and contour of your vehicle. But to get that precision fit, you need to measure carefully. One small oversight can result in a cover that doesn’t work as intended.
This blog post walks you through the correct way to measure so you only have to do it once and get it right.
Why Getting the Fit Right Matters
A van cover’s effectiveness depends on how well it fits. Too loose, and it lets in dirt, moisture, and wind, which can cause paint damage over time. Too tight, and it becomes a struggle to put on or take off, and may even strain the seams of the cover.
Universal covers are often marketed as one-size-fits-most, but for vans like the Ford Transit Connect, available in different trims, lengths, and roof heights, they’re more of a compromise.
A proper fit ensures your cover will:
- Stay put in heavy wind
- Shield all exposed surfaces, including mirrors or accessories, if you want them covered
- Prevent water from pooling and causing mildew
- Last longer by avoiding constant stress or shifting
Step 1: Gather the Right Tools
The tools are simple, but accuracy depends on using them correctly:
- A flexible measuring tape at least 25 feet long
- Notebook or phone to record numbers as you go
- A helper to hold the other end of the tape so it stays straight
Good lighting is important. Measuring in daylight makes it easier to pinpoint the start and end of each dimension.
Step 2: Prepare the Van
Before taking any measurements, set up your Transit Connect so nothing interferes with accuracy:
- Park on a level surface
- Shut all doors and windows completely
- Decide whether accessories like racks, ladders, or lights should be covered. If yes, leave them on; if not, remove them
Skipping this step is one of the most common causes of poor fit. Accessories can add inches to your dimensions, and forgetting to include them means the cover won’t go over them later.
Step 3: Measure the Length
Stand at one end of the van and measure bumper to bumper. Include anything that extends beyond the body, like a tow hitch, rear ladder, or step bumper. If you have an aftermarket bumper, note that in your records.
Step 4: Measure the Width
Find the widest point of the van. If you want the cover to wrap over the mirrors, measure across them. If not, measure the body width without mirrors.
Step 5: Measure the Height
Go from the ground to the tallest fixed point. That could be an antenna, a roof rack, or the top of a high-roof version.
Step 6: Measure Roof Features
If your van has fixed items like solar panels, vents, or beacons, measure the distance from the base of the windshield to where each one starts. This allows the cover maker to position reinforcements or openings in the right spot.
Step 7: Record Special Features
If there are any unique features on your Transit Connect that may have implications for the fit, then list them:
- Permanent racks or ladders
- Light bars or beacons
- Custom trim or body modifications
Take photos from all four sides. Pictures will help your supplier get a better idea of exactly what they are going to be covering, especially if you have a vehicle with custom features.
Step 8: Compare With Official Specs
Check the measurements in your owner’s manual or on Ford’s site to see how they match your numbers. Still, always use your own measurements when ordering. Even small aftermarket changes can alter the dimensions.
Step 9: Provide Complete Details to the Supplier
Give full information to the supplier when you are set to make your order. Give the following information to the supplier:
- Year, make, and model (Ford Transit Connect)
- Wheelbase length
- Roof height
- All measurements and photos
- Where you store your van, outdoors, in a garage, or as part of a fleet
This enables them to advise the most appropriate fabric and construction to suit your particular weather conditions, such as heavy snowfall, always sunny, salty sea air, etc.
Common Measuring Mistakes
Van owners often run into the same problems when ordering a custom cover:
- Forgetting to measure add ons like racks or ladders
- Guessing or rounding measurements rather than being exact to the nearest ¼ inch
- Trying to measure alone and getting wrong results from the sagging tape
- Relying only on manufacturer's dimensions without considering modifications
- Settling for a universal cover that “mostly” fits
Avoiding these mistakes ensures your tailor-fit van cover for Ford Transit Connect will protect your investment instead of creating new headaches.
Tips for Ford Transit Connect Owners
- The Transit Connect comes in several trims, like XL, XLT, cargo, and passenger, and each has its own dimensions. When ordering, make sure you specify your exact trim.
- If you own a long-wheelbase version, the extra length changes how the cover drapes over the van. Always measure carefully instead of assuming.
- For high-roof models, double-check your height measurement. Even a small error here can leave the cover too short or cause it to bunch at the bottom.
Why a Tailor-Fit Cover Pays Off
Taking the time to measure correctly isn’t just about aesthetics. A precision fit offers real benefits:
- Reduced wind, which will not cause scratches
- Better UV and weather protection because of full coverage
- No accumulation of water on top that increases the risk of mildew
- Greater durability for the van and the cover
For those who park outdoors or are living in an area with harsh conditions, these advantages can be the difference between a van that looks maintained at all times and one that prematurely begins to rust and show its age.
Choosing the Right Cover After Measuring
Once you’ve got your measurements, pick a cover built for your conditions. Look for:
- Multi-layer fabrics for all-weather performance
- UV-resistant materials to protect paint
- Breathable construction to prevent trapped moisture
- Reinforced seams for durability
At National Car Covers, you’ll find custom-fit van covers made to your exact specifications for the Ford Transit Connect. These options allow you to select the right material and design so your cover works just as hard as your van does.
To Sum it Up!
Measuring your van correctly is the foundation of getting a cover that truly fits. Every inch matters, especially for a tailor-fit van cover for the Ford Transit Connect. Take your time, record each detail, and give your supplier accurate information so you end up with protection that works season after season.
When you’re ready, National Car Covers offers a selection of custom and semi-custom van covers built to handle the toughest weather while fitting your van perfectly. With the right measurements, you’ll get a cover that protects your Transit Connect from the ground up, literally.
