What to consider when shopping for tonneau covers
When shopping for a tonneau cover, there are several factors to keep in mind:
- Compatibility – Make sure the tonneau cover is compatible with your specific make and model of truck.
- Material – Tonneau covers are available in a variety of materials, including vinyl, fabric, and hard plastic. Each has its own set of pros and cons, so consider which material is best for your needs.
- Ease of use – Consider how easy the tonneau cover is to use. Some covers are designed to be easily removed, while others are more permanently attached or need more than one person to remove and re-install.
- Security – If you plan to store valuable items in the bed of your truck, you’ll want to look for a tonneau cover that offers good security. Some covers are lockable to keep your belongings safe.
- Weather resistance – If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, you may want to look for a tonneau cover that is specifically designed to withstand these conditions.
- Price – Tonneau covers can vary significantly in price, so be sure to set a budget and stick to it.
- Warranty – Check the warranty offered by the manufacturer to ensure you have protection in case of any defects or issues with the cover.
Keep these considerations in mind and decide which are most important to you as check out the options.
Types of tonneau covers
The different types of covers can be broken down into five general categories.
Hard folding tonneau covers are made from hard materials such as fiberglass or hard plastic. They are durable and offer good security, but may be more difficult to remove and can be more expensive than other types of covers.
Soft folding tonneau covers are made from fabric or vinyl and are typically more affordable than hard tonneau covers. They are also easier to remove since they’re lighter and less rigid but may not offer as much security or protection from the elements.
Roll-up tonneau covers are manufactured from a flexible material and can be rolled up or down to access the bed of the truck. They are easy to use and typically offer good weather resistance, but may not be as secure as other types of covers.
Hinged tonneau covers are hinged at the front and can be opened and closed like a trunk. They offer good security and weather resistance but may be more permanently installed than other types of covers.
Retractable tonneau covers roll up into a canister at the front of the bed when not in use. They offer good security and weather resistance, plus some are motorized for convenience, but are definitely more expensive than other types of covers.
The 7 best tonneau covers for your truck
AutoZone carries a massive range of the top name brands in truck accessories, so narrowing down the best bed cover for trucks is no easy feat. Here are our five top selections, in no particular order.
BAK Industries BAKFlip G2 Hard Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover
BAK Industries is one of the most recognized brands in tonneau covers, and the BAKFlip G2 hard tri-fold cover is one of their best sellers. It features three aluminum panels hinged together that mount flush with the bed rail. When it’s open, it gives full access to the truck bed. When it’s closed, it’s as close to fully secured as possible with the release latches hidden underneath, behind a locked tailgate.
Tonno Pro Lo-Roll Vinyl Soft Roll-Up Tonneau Cover
One of the best-selling covers at AutoZone is also one of the least expensive. The Tonno Pro Lo-Roll vinyl roll-up cover installs fast with only one ratchet and socket. The frame mounts within the bed rails but the cover’s lip is above, helping the 24-ounce marine-grade vinyl cover to shed as much water as possible. When access to the truck bed is needed, it rolls up neatly behind the rear window and secures.
Extang Trifecta 2.0 Soft Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover
The Extang Trifecta 2.0 soft tri-fold tonneau cover is a mid-range-priced cover with hybrid benefits between soft and hard covers. It installs in minutes with their patented JawGrip clamps and the frame is manufactured from lightweight aircraft-grade aluminum.
LEER Remote Roll-up Tonneau Cover
If fitting a price point isn’t your main concern, consider the LEER Remote roll-up tonneau cover. As the name suggests, it’s remotely operated and opens via an electric motor that cycles in 30 seconds. The cover can be stopped at any point and locks in place with electromagnetic brakes, and it has a built-in failsafe lever. For most models, it arrives assembled and ready to drop in and fasten with clamps.
LUND Hard Folding Tonneau Cover
Another excellent option for a folding cover comes fully assembled and carries a limited lifetime warranty. The LUND Hard Folding tonneau cover is a hybrid option again that has marine-grade vinyl over an aluminum frame. It’s a tri-fold cover and is not only lightweight but features no-drill installation too.
FAQ/People Also Ask
How much should I spend on a tonneau cover?
Tonneau covers can be under $300 for a soft roll-up cover or more than $3,000 for a power-retractable roll-up cover. Generally, you can get a cover that fits your needs between $400 and $1,000 or so.
How do I know what size tonneau cover I need?
Tonneau covers are sorted by year, make, and model, but you’ll still need to know your box length. Measure from the bulkhead inside the box to the inner tailgate and find a tonneau cover that matches.
Are tonneau covers worth the money?
Along with protecting against the weather and thieves, tonneau covers add value through aesthetics and reducing your fuel consumption. While you need to determine its value to you, it’s generally a good purchase.
How much better gas mileage do you get with a tonneau cover?
On average, you’ll gain about 1 to 2% fuel efficiency with a tonneau cover installed.
