![]() And like most accessories in the automotive world, the case of getting what you pay for typically applies to tonneau covers. This review roundup covers the best hard tonneau covers, which demand higher price premiums since they provide more protection and security over soft tonneaus. Basic roll-up units made of a combination of vinyl or canvas reinforced by metal cross members typically occupy the less expensive side of the spectrum, while folding, retractable or solid covers make up the high end of the spectrum, all of which is reflected in their prices. Despite appearing complex, installation for most hard tonneau covers is toolless and requires little to no modification, making for easy plug-and-play.ĭesign, quality and price may vary from several factors, such as vehicle application, variations in sizes of beds, features, and construction. That also means they’re more physically secure than a soft vinyl cover (see the FAQs). There are many different types of covers for pickup beds, though hard tonneau covers are favored for their solid construction (typically aluminum or composite). ![]() ![]() The solution: A quality tonneau cover, also known as a truck bed cover. These vehicles are workhorses by design, but the exposed bed can be a big drawback if you need to protect and secure your cargo. They can tow large items or comfortably haul an entire family plus their things to a Sunday getaway without breaking a sweat. No vehicle is as versatile or capable as a pickup truck. While we work hard to provide accurate and up to date information that we think you will find relevant, Forbes Home does not and cannot guarantee that any information provided is complete and makes no representations or warranties in connection thereto, nor to the accuracy or applicability thereof. The compensation we receive from advertisers does not influence the recommendations or advice our editorial team provides in our articles or otherwise impact any of the editorial content on Forbes Home. Second, we also include links to advertisers’ offers in some of our articles these “affiliate links” may generate income for our site when you click on them. This site does not include all companies or products available within the market. The compensation we receive for those placements affects how and where advertisers’ offers appear on the site. First, we provide paid placements to advertisers to present their offers. This compensation comes from two main sources. To help support our reporting work, and to continue our ability to provide this content for free to our readers, we receive compensation from the companies that advertise on the Forbes Home site. In 2013, however, Consumer Reports tested a Dodge Ram V8 pickup with a tonneau while driving at a constant 65 mph, and they measured a slight drop of almost one mpg, which on a vehicle rated at 19-21 mpg in highway is about a 5% change.Īccording to the truck accessory retailer, RealTruck, soft roll-up and folding covers are the best choice if fuel economy is a concern because the higher weight of hard tonneaus can offset any reductions in aerodynamic drag.The Forbes Home editorial team is independent and objective. ![]() But don’t buy a tonneau if your main reason is better mpg any real improvement will take many years to offset the price of the cover.Īccording to Sawtooth, a tonneau cover manufacturer, a 2007 wind tunnel test by the trade group SEMA (the Specialty Equipment Market Association) showed that tonneau covers reduced aerodynamic drag by an average of 5.7%, which resulted in a 1.8% improvement in fuel economy. And any effect on fuel economy will depend on the cover, the truck, and the speed that you’re driving. This is a hotly debated topic, with advocates on both sides. Another benefit of soft tonneau covers is their relative ease of installation, many of which can be done in about an hour or less with common tools and without drilling or making alterations to your truck bed.īecause of the vast variety of makes, models and bed lengths, the prices can vary but we’ve provided a consistent baseline of pricing to get you started. We’re evaluating soft covers here, which are generally the least expensive, but we’ve got a full rundown on hard tonneau covers too. All strive to provide quick and easy access to the bed, but some are better than others, so you’ll want to review your choices carefully. Tonneau covers range from simple roll-up and folding models made of canvas or vinyl to higher-end retractable and one-piece designs, with an equally wide range of prices. And that’s where a tonneau cover comes in. Protecting that cargo from inclement weather and potential theft is another story altogether (see FAQs). When it comes to raw cargo-hauling versatility, it’s hard to beat the bed of a pickup truck. ![]()
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