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Do Tonneau Covers Save Gas?

According to some tests, tonneau covers can improve fuel economy by as much as 10% by reducing wind resistance. However, the type of tonneau cover and how it is used can affect its impact on gas mileage. Heavy covers made of fiberglass may lower gas mileage, while lighter ones don’t add much weight to the truck. Some studies suggest that tonneau covers can save you closer to 6% on gas mileage. However, other sources suggest that tonneau covers may actually decrease fuel mileage. Overall, the impact of tonneau covers on gas mileage may vary depending on the specific circumstances.

What Type Of Tonneau Cover Is Best For Improving Gas Mileage?

Tthe type of tonneau cover you choose will have an impact on your gas mileage savings. A less structured, soft-shell cover is less streamlined and wind-resistant, meaning your chances of saving at the pump are reduced. On the other hand, a hard top cover, like Mountain Top’s EVO-M Retractable cover, provides a more streamlined and wind-resistant option, which can improve fuel efficiency. Additionally, suggests that heavy tonneau covers, like ones made of fiberglass, may lower gas mileage, while lighter ones don’t add much weight to the truck. Therefore, it is important to consider the weight and structure of the tonneau cover when choosing one to improve gas mileage.

How Much Weight Do Tonneau Covers Add To A Truck?

The weight of tonneau covers can vary depending on the type and material of the cover. The weight capacity of a tonneau cover can range from 15 to 2,000 pounds, depending on the truck model and bed size. suggests that most trucks can hold up to 1000 lbs and even more while a tonneau cover won’t go anywhere near it. states that generally, tonneau covers can hold 50-100 lbs of weight. notes that heavy tonneau covers, like ones made of fiberglass, may lower gas mileage, while lighter ones don’t add much weight to the truck and aren’t likely to interfere with gas mileage. Therefore, the weight of tonneau covers can vary, and it is important to consider the weight of the cover when choosing one for your truck.

Can A Tonneau Cover Actually Decrease Fuel Mileage?

According to a test conducted by Consumer Reports, putting a tonneau cover or tarp on the back of a pickup truck appears to actually decrease fuel mileage pretty significantly. However, other sources suggest that tonneau covers can improve fuel economy by reducing wind resistance and improving aerodynamics. It is important to note that the impact of tonneau covers on gas mileage may vary depending on the specific circumstances, such as the type of tonneau cover and how it is used. Heavy tonneau covers, like ones made of fiberglass, may lower gas mileage, while lighter ones don’t add much weight to the truck. Therefore, the impact of tonneau covers on gas mileage may be positive or negative depending on the specific circumstances.

Do Tonneau Covers Only Benefit Trucks, Or Can They Help Cars Too?

Tonneau covers are typically designed for trucks, but they can also benefit cars. Tonneau covers can increase fuel efficiency, which can benefit any vehicle. Tonneau covers create an aerodynamic effect, reducing wind drag and gas consumption. However, it is important to note that the impact of tonneau covers on gas mileage may vary depending on the specific circumstances, such as the type of tonneau cover and how it is used. Heavy tonneau covers, like ones made of fiberglass, may lower gas mileage, while lighter ones don’t add much weight to the truck. Therefore, the impact of tonneau covers on gas mileage may be positive or negative depending on the specific circumstances of the vehicle.

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Meghan Drummond
Meghan Drummond

Meghan has owned trucks for over 20 years and installed her first tonneau cover back in 2005. She has tested over 50 different tonneau cover models hands-on. Meghan has a journalism degree from the University of Florida and previously worked as an auto writer.

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