When I purchased
my first truck, a showroom new 1985 Ford F-150, it was a basic offering
needing some serious upgrades. One of the first products I purchased
was a snap-on tonneau cover that adequately covered the truck's
eight foot bed. Although I did not have the truck for long, it proved
to be one of my favorite "add-ons" and it actually saved me some
money. If you're shopping for a new tonneau cover there are some
important things for you to keep in mind before finalizing your
purchase. Let's take a look at five of them.
You get what
you pay for! A tonneau
cover can be had cheaply or it can cost you a small fortune.
In the middle area, where most consumers shop, there are several
reasonably priced models that are durable, long lasting, and attractive.
Some covers look cheap -- and they are, while others look expensive
-- but they really are not. Generally, you will pay less for a soft-top
tonneau cover than for a hard-top cover, so it becomes a matter
of personal preference which style you decide to buy.
They are
easy to maintain. Quite true! For the most part, if you are
washing your truck, you will clean your cover the same way. However,
do not use the car tire or dashboard cleaning agents on your cover.
Manufacturers such as for the Extang
Tonneau Cover will have specific care instructions for you
to follow. Your local auto supply store should carry products specifically
designed to help you clean and shine your tonneau cover.
You will
reap security dividends. Even a soft, non-locking tonneau cover
is better to have on your truck bed than no cover at all, as tempting
items are kept away from thieves' eyes. Still, if you carry valuable
merchandise, consider a locking, hard cover version. Covers such
as those offered by Truxedo
Tonneau Cover can meet your security requirements.
Resale value
will be b. If you take good care of your truck and outfit
it with a premium tonneau cover, you will be able to command a good
resale value when it is time for you to sell your truck.
Decent fuel
savings. With gas prices surging, one way you can save as much
as 10-15% at the pump is to have a tonneau cover installed. Wind
drag is greatly reduced when your tonneau cover is securely in place.
Most tonneau
covers come with a one year limited warranty, which should be adequate
for you. Your online auto parts supplier can provide detailed information
about product offerings, care/maintenance, prices, shipping/handling
information, and more.
I hope you enjoy
your new tonneau cover as much as I enjoyed mine!
Matt is a contributing
writer to automobile sites including Car Parts Stuff.
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