Save on gas with soft tonneau covers

One of the best features of vinyl tonneau covers and other truck lids is that they increase your fuel efficiency. When a truck is in motion, air rushes up the windshield and down the back and into the bed, where it swirls around and is trapped against the tailgate. This creates drag, and is why some people lower their tailgate or install a cargo net across rather than drive with the tailgate up. The truck's tailgate is there for a reason, though, and many owners might not be comfortable driving with it lowered, especially if there's a load in back. Soft or hard tonneau covers eliminate the problem. Truck manufacturers' testing indicates an increased fuel efficiency of up to 15%. Since we don't all drive in wind tunnels under test conditions, 10% is a more reasonable and widely accepted estimate. Depending on how much you drive, your cover could pay for itself in short order.

When your tonneau is in use, be sure it's completely snapped onto the frame; if not in use, be sure it's rolled up and secured. Vinyl tonneau covers that are only partially secured will flap around and become windwhipped, which leads to cracking, peeling and premature aging. Ensure the cover is completely dry before rolling it up, because enclosed dampness could lead to mildew (there are several protectants on the market you can apply to guard against mildew; apply these if you wish, but rolling it up damp is still not a good idea.) Also, as you roll it up, be sure not to fold or crease it, as the material will weaken and break down along the creases. For snap-on soft tonneau covers, occasional lubrication of the snaps with a petroleum-based lubricant is also a good idea.