Mercury Outboard Motor Covers

Mercury Outboard Motor Covers - Resources and Information

A Mercury outboard motor cover is designed to protect your engine from the elements—sun, salt, rain, and debris—whether you're on the water or storing your boat. It helps preserve the finish of your cowling, prevents fading and cracking from UV exposure, and keeps out dust, grime, and moisture that can lead to corrosion or wear over time. A good cover fits snugly over the engine, offering breathable protection without trapping heat or moisture. It’s a simple but effective way to extend the life of your outboard and keep it looking and performing its best, season after season.

Browse the complete range of Mercury outboard parts and Mercury cowling covers to help you protect and maintain your Mercury outboard engine for many years to come.

We also regularly release new, helpful resources for Mercury outboard owners, including:

• Mercury Outboard Shop By Engine

• Mercury Outboard Owners Resources Page

• Mercury Outboard Service Schedule

• Mercury Outboard Specs & Capabilities Charts

We also offer all the products and accessories you need to keep your Mercury outboard in ship shape:

• Mercury Service Kits

• Mercury Lubes & Fluids

• Mercury Marine Paint

• Mercury Oils & Fuel Filters

• Mercury Oil Change Kits

• Mercury Gear Lube Kits

• Anodes

• Thermostats

• Mercury Propellers & Propeller Hardware

• Charging and Electrical Components

• Mercury Fuel & Oil System Components

• Service & Owners Manuals

• Mercury Trim & Tilt Components

Are Mercury Outboard Motor Covers Worth the Investment?

Yes, Mercury outboard motor covers are worth the investment. They help protect your engine from sun damage, moisture, salt, and dirt, which can wear down your outboard over time. By keeping the cowling clean and shielded, a cover can help prevent fading, cracking, and corrosion. It also saves you time on cleanup and helps your engine hold its value longer. For a relatively small cost, it’s a smart way to take care of something key to your time on the water.

How do I protect my Mercury outboard motor?

To protect your Mercury outboard motor, start with regular maintenance—follow the service schedule for oil changes, flushing, and inspections. Always rinse the engine with fresh water after running in saltwater to prevent corrosion. Use a high-quality outboard motor cover to shield it from sun, rain, and debris when the engine's not in use. Store your boat in a dry, covered area if possible, and make sure the engine is trimmed down so water can drain properly. Keeping the cowling clean and checking for signs of wear will also go a long way in protecting your outboard over time.

What is the difference between a Mercury outboard storage cover and a Mercury outboard splash cover?

A Mercury outboard storage cover and a Mercury outboard splash cover serve two very different purposes, each designed to protect your engine under specific conditions. Understanding the distinction between the two helps ensure you're using the right cover for your needs—and protecting your investment properly.

Mercury outboard storage covers are intended for use only when the engine is turned off, and the boat is not in operation. These covers are built for long-term or seasonal protection, whether your boat is parked on a trailer, stored at the marina, or sitting idle in a garage. Designed to fit snugly over the entire engine, including the cowling and often the lower unit, storage covers shield your outboard from sun exposure, moisture, dust, dirt, and other environmental hazards. However, they are not meant to be used while the engine is running or while the boat is in motion. Using a storage cover under these conditions could interfere with engine performance or cause the cover to become damaged.

In contrast, Mercury outboard splash covers—also known as running covers or cowling covers—are designed to remain in place while your engine is operating. These lightweight, form-fitting covers protect the top portion of the outboard from road debris during trailering and from water spray and UV rays during active use. Because they are engineered to allow proper airflow and ventilation, splash covers do not impede performance and can be safely used whether you're underway or towing your boat to the launch ramp.

Simply put, storage covers are for rest, splash covers are for action.

How do I take care of my Mercury outboard engine’s exterior?

Taking care of your Mercury outboard engine’s exterior is simple and goes a long way in preserving its appearance and performance. After each use, especially in saltwater, rinse the engine thoroughly with fresh water to remove salt, grime, and debris. Wipe down the cowling with a soft cloth and mild soap to keep the surface clean and buildup-free.

Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the finish, and apply a protective wax or marine-grade polish occasionally to help guard against UV rays and fading. Using a vented outboard motor cover when the engine is not in use can further protect it from sun exposure, rain, and scratches. Keeping the exterior clean and covered helps your engine look great and last longer.

Can I customize my Mercury outboard motor’s cowling?

Yes, you can customize your Mercury outboard motor’s cowling. Many boaters choose to personalize their cowling with vinyl wraps, decals, or custom paint to match their boat or add a unique touch. Just be sure to use marine-grade materials that can withstand sun, water, and salt exposure. It’s also important to avoid blocking ventilation areas or applying anything that could interfere with the cowling’s fit or function. If you're customizing a newer engine, check your warranty terms—some modifications could affect coverage. When done right, customizing your cowling can be a fun way to make your boat stand out while still protecting your engine.

Can I use a Yamaha outboard cowling cover on my Mercury outboard motor?

No, using a Yamaha outboard cowling cover on a Mercury outboard motor is not recommended. Each outboard brand and model has its own unique cowling shape, size, and vent placement. A Yamaha cover likely won’t fit a Mercury engine properly, which could lead to poor protection or even cause damage if it interferes with ventilation or traps moisture. For the best fit and protection, using a cowling cover specifically designed for your Mercury outboard model is always best.

What are Mercury outboard motor covers?

Mercury outboard motor covers are protective covers designed to fit over the engine cowling of Mercury outboard motors. They shield the engine from environmental elements like sun, rain, salt, and debris, helping to prevent damage such as fading, cracking, or corrosion. Some covers are vented to allow airflow and to avoid moisture buildup, while others are meant for full storage coverage. Whether used during transport, storage, or even while the engine is running, these covers help extend the life of the outboard and keep it looking clean and well-maintained.

What sizes do Mercury outboard motor covers come in?

Mercury outboard motor covers come in various sizes to fit specific engine models and horsepower ratings. They’re typically tailored for a snug fit based on the shape and dimensions of each engine’s cowling. Sizes are usually categorized by engine horsepower, such as covers for 2.5HP–15HP portable motors, mid-range models like 40HP–60HP, and larger outboards ranging from 75HP up to 400HP or more.

Some covers are also model-specific (e.g., a Mercury 60HP FourStroke) to ensure proper fit, including vent placement and overall coverage. For the best protection, choosing a cover that matches your exact engine model and year is essential.

Is using a Mercury outboard motor cover safe while running the engine?

Yes, but ONLY if the Mercury outboard motor cover is specifically designed for use while the engine is running, such as a vented splash cover. These covers are made to stay securely in place and allow proper airflow and cooling while the engine is operating. They help protect the cowling from spray, sun, and minor debris without interfering with performance.

However, you should NEVER run your engine with a full storage cover or any non-vented cover in place, as it can block ventilation, trap heat, and potentially damage the engine. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions to be sure the cover is rated for use during operation.