What are the disadvantages of tonneau covers?
Tonneau covers are popular accessories for pickup trucks, providing a sleek look and added protection for cargo. However, while they offer several benefits, there are also notable disadvantages that potential buyers should consider. In this article, we will explore the downsides of tonneau covers to help you make an informed decision.
1. Limited Accessibility
One of the primary disadvantages of tonneau covers is the limited accessibility they provide to the truck bed. Depending on the type of cover, accessing your cargo can become cumbersome. Here are some points to consider:
- Hard Covers: These often require you to open the entire cover to access items at the front of the bed.
- Soft Covers: While easier to roll back, they may not provide the same level of security as hard covers.
2. Potential for Damage
Tonneau covers can also lead to potential damage to your truck bed. Here are a few ways this can happen:
- Scratches and Dents: If not installed properly, the cover can rub against the bed, causing scratches.
- Water Accumulation: Some covers may not seal completely, leading to water pooling in the bed, which can cause rust over time.
3. Increased Weight
Adding a tonneau cover can increase the overall weight of your truck. This added weight can affect fuel efficiency and performance, particularly if you choose a heavy hard cover. Consider the following:
- Fuel Economy: The extra weight may lead to slightly reduced fuel efficiency.
- Handling: Heavier covers can alter the handling characteristics of your truck, especially when loaded.
4. Cost Considerations
Tonneau covers can be a significant investment. The costs can vary widely based on the type and brand, and this can be a disadvantage for budget-conscious consumers:
- Initial Purchase: High-quality covers can be expensive, and cheaper options may not provide the durability you need.
- Installation Costs: Some covers may require professional installation, adding to the overall expense.
5. Security Concerns
While tonneau covers can provide some level of security for your cargo, they are not foolproof. Here are some security-related issues:
- Locking Mechanisms: Many covers have basic locking systems that can be easily bypassed.
- Visibility: A cover can obscure the view of your cargo, making it less visible to passersby, which can be a double-edged sword.
Conclusion
While tonneau covers can enhance the functionality and appearance of your pickup truck, it's essential to weigh these disadvantages against their benefits. By considering factors such as accessibility, potential damage, weight, cost, and security, you can make a more informed decision about whether a tonneau cover is the right choice for your vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do tonneau covers keep rain out?
Retractable tonneaus are stored in a canister that sits at the bed bulkhead and can be extended to cover the truck bed with the click of a button. They aren't perfect at keeping water out, but they are meant to be good at withstanding rain and snow.
How long do tonneau covers last?
With proper care, hard truck bed covers (including hinged, and retractables) will last for as long as you have your vehicle. Soft covers usually last for about 7-10 years staying in perfect shape before beginning to show a few signs of wear and tear. Tip: Avoid leaving large cargo on top of your tonneau cover for long.
Do tonneau covers save gas MythBusters?
Based on independent studies from “MythBusters,” SEMA, and Consumer Reports, yes—in some cases. Here's a summary of the research findings: At best, tonneau covers improve gas mileage by under 2% Gas-saving benefits increase at higher driving speeds.
Should I leave my tonneau cover on all the time?
YES, you should keep your tonneau on this winter.
Well, first, you paid good money for that truck bed cover to, you know… cover the truck bed. Removing it would be counterintuitive, and risks exposing the metal bed to some seriously corrosive moisture and road salt.
What are the pros and cons of a tonneau cover?
Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover Pros
- Additional Security. A hardcover tri-fold can secure your cargo, making it hard for thieves to get their hands on your goods.
- Protection from the Elements.
- Appearance.
- Limited Access to Your Truck Bed.
- Appearance.
- Installation and Removal.
- Bubbling.
- Leaking.
Why does my tonneau cover keep popping up?
This can be due to road vibrations loosening the cover, worn or damaged components failing to do their job, dirt and debris gumming up moving parts, or as the result of improper installation and use. Sometimes the problem is just temporary, like freezing temperatures turning your tonneau cover into a Tupperware lid.
Can I go through a carwash with a tonneau cover?
You should be aware that most Car Washes do not cover damage to any items like a tonneau or bike rack that are added on to a vehicle. So that's probably why Google said that. Any properly installed tonneau should make it through a car wash without issue.
What type of tonneau cover is best for fuel economy?
The issue here is that while any tonneau cover can reduce Cd, designs such as painted or heavy duty tonneau covers also add significant weight to your truck, negating any potential mileage improvement. This is why the best tonneau cover for fuel efficiency is a soft roll-up or soft folding bed cover.
Do tonneau covers affect gas mileage?
It really depends on how you use your truck. If you're mostly driving in city traffic, a tonneau cover isn't going to make much of a difference in your gas mileage. However, if you're a frequent highway driver, a tonneau cover can help fuel efficiency.
Can I sit on my tonneau cover?
Soft folding tonneau covers offer some protection to your truck bed, but they're not made to withstand someone's weight. The same goes for soft vinyl retractable covers.
