A retractable tonneau cover is the best tonneau cover that every truck owner can use. It enhances the functionality and appearance of the vehicle. This tonneau cover protects the truck bed and its cargo. However, like any product, it has benefits and drawbacks.
This article will talk about the pros and cons of retractable covers so that you can make a smart choice. Continue reading to learn more about these retractable covers.
What Is a Retractable Tonneau Cover?
Retractable covers roll back easily, giving you quick access to your truck bed. You can open and close these covers without folding or removing them. Likewise, the sturdiness of these covers differs as they are made of high-end materials like plastic or metal. These can be categorized into these types:
Manual retractable covers: You need to unlock and pull the cover back manually.
Motorized retractable covers: Powered by an electric motor, allowing button-controlled opening and closing.
Pros of Retractable Covers
There are some advantages to choosing a retractable cover for your truck. Take a look at these key benefits:
1. Enhanced Security
Investing in these covers offers enhanced security over traditional truck bed covers. When locked, a strong barrier protects your cargo from theft. Many models have built-in locking mechanisms, providing peace of mind. This is especially important when carrying valuable items.
2. Protection from the Elements
Using retractable covers helps you prevent water or dirt from entering the truck bed, making your belongings dry. Also, retractable covers protect your cargo from the sun's UV rays, keeping your items away from damage.
3. Sleek Appearance
Buying a retractable cover is the best choice for your pickup. It fits well with your truck’s design and helps keep the bed looking neat. This tonneau cover not only adds style to your truck but also provides all of the important functions you would want.
4. Improved Fuel Efficiency
When your truck bed is open, air flows into it, causing resistance, which is called drag. Besides that, the retractable cover minimizes air resistance, which improves your gas mileage. The difference may seem small, but the pile adds up over time.
5. Long-Term Durability
Lots of retractable covers are built to last, offering long-term durability. However, the covers are made of strong materials such as aluminum or vinyl that can withstand different weather conditions. If you care for your cover properly, it’s an excellent investment for your truck because it can last for centuries.
Here’s how you take care of your retractable covers:
- Use mild soap to clean the cover and get rid of any dirt or dust.
- Put lubricants on the tracks and moving parts for a smooth ride.
- Look for tears or cracks and fix any problems right away.
- For free and easy flow of water, you should keep the drainage ways clean.
- Remove or cover the bed during bad weather conditions.
Cons of Retractable Covers
Though retractable covers offer plenty of advantages, they might not be ideal for some truck owners. Here are the drawbacks that you need to consider:
1. Higher Initial Cost
Since retractable covers offer a lot of benefits, they tend to have a higher upfront cost compared to other truck bed covers. For example, soft covers or hinged covers are affordable. The price of a retractable cover always depends on the brand or features, so it’s essential to consider your needs before buying one.
2. Complex Installation
Another disadvantage of retractable covers is that their installation seems more complex than other covers. Retractable covers can be quite demanding, depending on the model. They may also require professional installation, which increases the overall price.
For those who prefer to handle installation on their own, retractable covers are not a choice. However, some retractable covers provide instructions and are designed to be installed easily, but they still may require some time and effort.
3. Limited Cargo Height
Retractable covers can limit the height of cargo you can carry. If you're carrying large items, the cover might not close fully. Well, of course, it would be a disadvantage for those few drivers who haul larger cargo that might take up the entire height of the truck bed.
4. Maintenance Requirements
Ensure that the parts of the retractable cover are always clean so that it is not difficult for you to open or close. To keep the retractable system working, you should apply oil regularly on the moving parts.
Even though it's not hard to maintain, the cover needs to be looked after to keep it in good shape. In case you don’t know how to maintain your retractable cover, here are the professionals you can ask for help:
- Many auto repair shops offer services for truck accessories, including retractable covers.
- Dealers selling covers can provide maintenance or recommend professionals.
- Mobile mechanics can visit your location for maintenance and repairs.
- Manufacturers can provide care instructions or service referrals for your coverage.
5. Potential for Mechanical Issues
Like any mechanical item, retractable covers can get damaged. The rolling system and other moving parts might have problems over time. Even though these covers are built to last, retractable can still face issues, which may need immediate repairs or replacements. Here are some signs that you need to address your retractable cover:
Stuck Tracks: Difficulty opening or closing the cover means misaligned tracks.
Broken Locks: A faulty lock mechanism requires repair or replacement for security.
Unresponsive Mechanism: A sluggish retractable system signals a mechanical issue needing attention.
Visible Damage: Cracks or dents in the cover or frame can affect performance.
Water Leaks: Leakage around the cover indicates that the seal needs adjustment or replacement.
6. Not Ideal for All Weather Conditions
Retractables are weatherproof but can be affected by severe weather conditions. That's why, when you live in an area with extreme weather, it's advisable to consider how the cover will perform in those conditions. Here's how to ensure the cover works well:
- Extreme temperatures can be avoided by using a protective cover.
- Choose weather-resistant materials like heavy-duty plastic or metal.
- Keep products inside to keep them from breaking or freezing in harsh weather.
- Choose covers with insulation to prevent freezing mechanisms in cold weather.
Comparing Retractable Covers to Other Options
To help you determine whether retractable covers are best for you, you should start by comparing them against other tonneau covers. Each type has its pros and cons, depending on what you need:
1. Folding Tonneau Cover
Typically more affordable than retractable ones. They fold in sections for easy truck bed access without removing the cover. However, they are bulkier and take up more space when open. Additionally, they don’t offer the low-profile appearance that many truck owners prefer.
2. Roll-Up Tonneau Cover
Similar to retractable covers, you can quickly access the truck's bed by rolling them in. On the other hand, the construction of roll-up covers usually involves softer materials, which may not offer the same level of protection. In addition, they can break down more easily. Although roll-up covers are expensive, they are not as convenient as flexible covers.
3. Hard Tonneau Cover
Selecting hard covers is more secure than soft covers since they are strong and made of materials like fiberglass or aluminum. But you might find them difficult to remove, especially if you need the entire space for the truck bed. Retractable covers provide similar protection but offer easier access and flexibility.
Who Should Consider a Retractable Cover?
For truck owners, a retractable cover is the perfect solution for convenience and durability. It’s perfect for those who constantly carry around valuable items and need an item protected from the weather. Additionally, it’s the best choice if you want an easy-to-use cover that enhances your truck’s appearance and aerodynamics.
However, if you’re on a tight budget or need more cargo space, there are other cover types of tonneau cover that have better fit. For those who always transport heavy items, a hard-shell cover can offer better protection.
Should You Get a Retractable Cover?
Many truck owners find that a movable cover is a beneficial purchase because it works well. However, some individuals still think about the higher initial cost and the need for upkeep. But if you want a cover that looks good, a retractable tonneau cover is the right choice.
Aside from that, there are alternative covers available that will help you save money. In order to find the best choice for your truck, you should weigh the pros and cons. Are you ready to get a retractable cover for your truck? Look through the options and choose the best car fit.