The truck bed, as such, is the most vulnerable part of any truck. You ought to make sure that it’s protected at all times and that it isn’t exposed to thieves, dust, and any other potential threats.
What you need is the best retractable tonneau cover that will create the necessary barrier on your truck bed.
Why go down the retractable path?
Well, it doesn’t limit the access to your truck bed because you just retract them whenever you need to, without taking them off fully. Not to mention that it improves the dynamics of your truck by lowering the wind resistance, which, in turn, increases your fuel efficiency.
A win-win situation, don’t you agree?
That said, there is a slew of top-rated retractable tonneau covers on the internet. So, how do you select the one that is the best retractable bed cover for you?
If you’re scouring the best retractable tonneau covers reviews, with no single answer on which one to get, you’re finally going to get one.
No matter whether you are in search of the best retractable tonneau cover review in general, or something specific like the best retractable bed cover for F150, we’ve got you covered!
Top 6 Best Retractable Truck Bed Tonneau Cover On The Market 2019 Reviews
1. RetraxPRO MX Retractable Truck Bed Tonneau Cover | 80463
The first tonneau cover to make its way up my list comes from the tradition of style, security, and quality, which Retrax is known for.
This Retrax bed cover review was easily earned for the following reasons: top-notch production and their popularity in the current market.
RetraxPRO MX accentuated both strength and style with this product. The heavy-duty aluminum construction combined with the cherry-on-top matte finish pledges itself to durability and sophistication.
RetraxPRO MX Retractable Truck Bed Tonneau Cover | 80463
This RetraxPRO tonneau cover can allow its user to have the cake and eat it. It doesn’t make you pick between sturdiness and looks; you get both, at the expense of nothing.
So, is it all that good? Yes, and there is more!
The entire setup process is easy and doesn’t require any tools that you already do not have in your garage, which is a big plus even for first-time buyers.
All of the parts are rubber-mounted, which automatically means that you don’t have to worry about any possible damage to the paint job.
What I loved the most about the RetraxPro MX is that it was engineered with ease of operation in mind. This means no Velcro, no straps, nothing that could annoy you in the process of opening and closing.
The main drawback of this tonneau cover is its price. Namely, it isn’t exactly what you’d label your most budget-friendly tonneau cover – but it’s well worth the money.
Pros:
- Sturdy construction
- Protects against all elements
- Easy to install
- Extremely functional and easy to use
- Can be retracted easily with a button
Cons:
- Pricey
Was I satisfied with my RetraxPRO MX? Definitely. The only plausible downside to this tonneau cover revolves around its price. But if you can afford the investment, it’ll be worth your money.
2. Syneticusa Aluminum Roll-Up Retractable Hard Tonneau Cover
Constructed from heavy-duty slats, this aluminum Syneticusa Roll-Up tonneau cover can offer all the protection that you may need for your truck.
Its entire construction is the first thing I noticed about it and easily its most pronounced quality. The low-profile design draws all its muscle from aircraft-grade aluminum, which is there to outlast any damage.
The entire aluminum roll-up tonneau cover is powder coated in matte, which is the final seal and the ultimate evidence of its durability. It doesn’t scratch; it’s waterproof and keeps the dust out.
Syneticusa Aluminum Roll-Up Retractable Hard Tonneau Cover
Synteticusa claims that the installation should take no more than 30 minutes, but first-time users may not find the installation manual easy to decipher and follow.
In my opinion, the simple characteristic that firmly separates this tonneau cover apart from the rest is its locking system. It’s lockable from two sides and in any position, which ensures that your cargo stays safe and secure where it should be.
The sleek appearance of this tonneau cover is enhanced because it glides smoothly so that it doesn’t even come into contact with itself while opening or closing.
As I previously mentioned, the installation process can be a bit tricky. The entire portion of the information isn’t included, so you are blindsided when it comes to the extra work you need to do after the installation.
Pros:
- Durable construction
- Scratch-resistant
- Excellent protection against the elements
- Great safety system
- Sleek low-profile design
Cons:
- The instructions for the installation process could have been clearer
Overall, my sentiments for this cover remain the same: had the instructions been clearer, more intuitive, and easier to follow, the entire setup would have been as smooth as the cover itself, which is impeccable.
3. Roll-N-Lock LG107M Locking Retractable M-Series Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
The next one in line comes from Roll-N-Lock bed covers, as they cannot be left out. The reason for this? There are many!
Roll-N-Lock truck bed covers come from one of the industry leaders when it comes to first-class tonneau covers.
This cover’s makeup is vinyl-over-aluminum, a unique composition of high-grade aluminum with the vinyl cover on top.
This is significant for your tonneau cover because it prevents any corrosion and scratching while maintaining the absolute durability it provides.
Roll-N-Lock LG107M Locking Retractable M-Series Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
Its smooth, low-profile design is equipped with a locking mechanism that allows for the cover to be locked in three positions other than when it’s fully closed, and the cargo stays put in the place that you want it.
Upon my thorough inspection, I discovered my favorite feature during the installation process. The Roll-N-Lock tonneau cover has built-in drainage tubes, which covers most of my moisture worries as it is designed to keep the majority of it out.
Of course, this serves as a nice addition to the ease of installation facilitated by the patented clamp-on design.
While on the topic of installation, first-time users will most definitely find it challenging to follow the instructions. Therefore, my advice to you is to follow the video instructions and not the manual.
Pros:
- A combination of high-quality aluminum and a vinyl top-coat
- Built-in drainage tubes
- Aside from fully closed, it has three different locking positions
- Low-profile design
- Smooth glide
Cons:
- Instructions aren’t clear on installation tools that are required
All in all, Roll-N-Lock definitely rolled out a stable and sturdy option. You will get your money’s worth – a practical and secure tonneau cover!
4. BAK Industries R15309 RollBak G2 Aluminum Hard Retractable Tonneau Bed Cover
Anyone who is a truck enthusiast is familiar with BAK Industries. Their BAK G2 tonneau cover is considered the gold standard in the category of hard retractable bed covers.
It has dominated the market with the durable powder-coated aluminum construction and surprisingly versatile features. It will fit most truck models, and you don’t even have to remove your tubular bed rails because it doesn’t interfere with the stake hole pockets.
BAK Industries R15309 RollBak G2 Aluminum Hard Retractable Tonneau Bed Cover
Due to its sleek, low-profile aerodynamic design that the manufacturers carefully utilized, this cover will improve your gas mileage for up to 11%, which is something that shouldn’t be easily dismissed.
Did I mention that it’s water-resistant?
BAK Industries nicknamed this kind of design “Armor for Trucks Beds,” and I have to admit they summed it up nicely.
What I particularly liked is how you can securely lock this tonneau cover at 12-inch increments according to your preference.
In case anything goes wrong, you’re backed up with a two-year warranty.
What some other G2 BAKFlip tonneau cover reviews might not mention is that it’s a bit time-consuming to install this cover, but it’s not a big inconvenience, considering how easy it is to use once you set it up.
Namely, it has a cable system that releases the latches on both sides. You just need to pull the cable, and the truck bed retracts!
Pros:
- Durable construction
- Compatible with most trucks
- Provides excellent protection
- Easy-to-use cable mechanism
- You can retract the cover from either side of your truck
Cons:
- The installation process lasted longer than average
What was my final impression after I made the BAKFlip G2 tonneau cover review? I’d give it a nine out of ten. Had it been easier to install it, and had the instructions been more precise, it’d be flawless.
5. Gator Recoil Retractable Tonneau Truck Bed Cover
Last but not least, the Gator made it to the top five best retractable tonneau truck bed covers. Also, if you’re looking for the best truck bed cover for Ford F150, this is the one.
It comes in two sizes: 5’ 55’’ and 6’ 5’’, so you can choose the one that fits your truck better. Add to the equation the customizable locking capabilities, with three positions, and you get a versatile cover.
Gator Recoil Retractable Tonneau Truck Bed Cover
Let’s see how it holds up.
The durability of this Gator recoil retractable tonneau cover is at the forefront, allowing you to fully protect your truck bed against any potential threats.
The aluminum construction seems as if it could stand a lifetime of abuse, and it’s combined with a sleek matte finish that also looks great on your truck. The all-black powder-coat finish isn’t there just for aesthetics, though. It is scratch-resistant, meaning you can expose your truck to any conditions once you close the cover.
A bonus on top of bonuses is that this USA-made tonneau cover comes with a 2-year warranty, though I’m adamant it will last you for much longer.
As you’ve probably noticed, some of the tonneau truck bed covers I’ve reviewed today were a bit tricky to install. By “tricky,” I mean time-consuming, for the most part. But I’m pleased to report that I’ve had no issues with this one.
The only slight quibble is the fact that the release handle is located only on the driver’s side. I wish they included the capability for the double-sided placement.
Pros:
- Durable
- Easy to install
- Premium design
- Multiple sizes
- Two-year warranty
- Slim profile
Cons:
- You cannot open it from both sides of your truck
6. PowertraxONE MX Retractable Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
Convenience, durability, security, and style – those are just some of the things this product can offer.
If you own a 2015-2020 model of either the Ford F-150 Super Crew or Super Cab with a 5’ 7’’ size bed length (67.1 inches), then this product may be fit for you.
Gator Recoil Retractable Tonneau Truck Bed Cover
With an operation that is powered by a remote control that is wireless,let me say that this product surely is convenient as the cover opens and closes easily with a press of a button.
Not only this, but the cover may be locked at any point along the rail with the aid of an electromagnetic brake, which I find convenient and helpful. Lastly, there is an LED light included on the spiral canister that automatically turns on and off.
Speaking of durability, I have discovered that this cover is designed to withstand impact as it is made with firm polycarbonate material. It can hold up to around 200 pounds of weight that is distributed evenly.
Aside from this, it also serves as a good UV protection fit for any type of weather ranging from a freezing -50°F to a scorching +200°F to keep your goods dry and preserved.
It provides a secure and flexible usage of the truck bed as it can safely be secured anywhere along the tonneau rails with the use of the latch of the truck bed or its key – now how safe is that!
Lastly, not only does it have a matte finish to give it a neat and stylish look, but it also serves its purpose of being resistant to scratching. This product only comes in black so it matches your car perfectly.
The product also comes with a 3-year long warranty to ensure that you have the best experience with it.
I only wish it could have been more waterproof, but overall, nothing more I could say regarding its operation, durability, and convenience.
Pros
- Remote controlled
- Locks at any position
- Made from durable materials
- Has a tight seal
Cons
- Not fully waterproof
Best Retractable Tonneau Covers Using Guide
As usual, I decided to dedicate a portion of my article to answer some of the most frequently asked questions regarding the top rated retractable tonneau covers.
Navigate through this short guide to find all the information you need on your future truck bed cover.
Who Makes the Best Retractable Tonneau Cover?
The best retractable tonneau cover is not about the brand; it’s about its durability and functionality.
Naturally, the automotive industry leaders went out of their way to make the most durable and versatile retractable truck bed cover.
The competition is fierce, but I’d say that ReTrax, BAK Industries, Tyger, and Gator are the top companies. SyneticUSA and Roll-N-Lock are not far behind, either.
It’s no wonder that most of them have a representative on my lists of the best retractable tonneau covers.
Where to Get a Truck Bed Covers Retractable?
Any of the companies I’ve listed above are a great place to get your retractable tonneau cover from.
If you want to spare some time and get a truck bed cover without visiting their stores, you can check on Amazon. They have most of the models. Importantly, you can check the fit of a particular cover on the website itself by selecting your vehicle’s year, make, and model.
How to Fix a Retractable Tonneau Cover?
Tonneau covers are constructed with a clear idea – they are there to protect your precious cargo and to minimize theft opportunities.
So once your tonneau cover is damaged, you want it fixed as quickly and as functionally as possible. The most common damages result in leaking and flipping, frequently both.
To fix your tonneau cover, you must diagnose the problem. If the problem is leaking, you should use a tailgate seal, which prevents moisture and prevents leakage.
If your diagnosis shows that your tonneau cover won’t open or close, you may have a rust problem, which is easily solvable with some lubrication.
However, most tonneau cover problems are related to fitting. To prevent this, you need to correctly measure your truck bed to purchase the right tonneau cover for your car.
Ultimately, if nothing works, you should check whether you have a defective seal and replace it immediately.
How to Install Retractable Tonneau Cover?
Before you begin with the installation of your retractable tonneau cover, check if you have all materials and tools that are required.
A quick heads-up: the concrete installation process of your tonneau cover depends on its model and type, as well as your truck. In any case, it will come with a set of complete instructions, and you should adhere to them.
However, most of the retractable tonneau covers are attached in a similar way:
- Firstly, you should center the canister of the cover of your truck bed, as far forward as possible.
- Next, position the cover rails on top of the rails of your truck bed, and connect them to the canister. Double-check this step, because if you fail to do this properly, the slide may not be that smooth. Make sure that there are no slack parts or space between the bed and the cab.
- Put the clamps, and slide them down the rail undersides of your tonneau cover until you see that they are in the appropriate locking position.
- Bolt each claim together.
- After you’re done tightening the bolts, it’s time to add any additional parts that came with it: e.g., straps, tubes, water canisters, etc.
If you need to install a retractable tonneau cover with latches and clamps, it’s even easier. The positioning is the same, except you first pull down latches when you set the cover to the initial position. Then you repeat the same process when you extend it fully.
You’ll see – the installation of a retractable tonneau cover isn’t rocket science, nor it is extra labor-intensive, but it will probably take you some time, especially if you haven’t done this before. You might even want to recruit a pair of helping hands for the first time!
Do retractable bed covers leak?
Although bed covers are designed to keep your goods dry when it is raining or snowing, there is no guarantee that these covers are fully waterproof.
Instead, they are water resistant. However, there are parts at the back of your truck, like the tailgate, wherein water can seep through inside the gaps.
So to answer your question, yes, retractable bed covers can leak, but there is nothing to worry about. These are still able to do the job of keeping the majority of your load dry whether it is raining or snowing.
Water can be driven away from the cover with the help of the rails or by installing tubes for drainage.
What is the Best Retractable Tonneau Cover?
After my rigorous retractable tonneau cover review process, I can attest that the RetraxPRO MX Retractable Truck Bed Tonneau Cover | 80463 is the best retractable tonneau cover as of now.
The improvements in its built and dynamics place this cover at the top of my list. In conjunction with the high-quality security system and effortless removal, this bed cover is unparalleled in the category.
The Conclusion For You To Buy The Best Retractable Tonneau Cover
At the end of this retractable truck bed cover review, all that is left is to summarize my findings.
The absolute winner as the best retractable tonneau cover is the RetraxPRO MX Retractable Truck Bed Tonneau Cover | 80463. It has a sturdy design without skimping on the ease of use and versatility.
Again, all of your needs can be fulfilled on a budget-friendly note with our runner-up, the Syneticusa Aluminum Roll-Up Retractable Hard Tonneau Cover.
Before you go, check out some additional excellent tonneau covers (albeit not all of them are retractable) here.
See you next time with other articles!
