Pickup truck owners know that a tonneau cover is an excellent investment. This helpful truck bed accessory provides protection, security, improved gas mileage, and a smooth, finished look. But like most things, tonneau covers don’t last forever. Exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear means that most tonneau covers need replacing after 5-10 years.

So how much does it cost to replace a tonneau cover? The costs vary quite a bit based on the type of tonneau cover and complexity of installation. Let’s break it down.

What are the different types of tonneau covers?

There are three main types of tonneau covers, each with their own price range for replacement:

Soft Tonneau Covers

Made of vinyl, canvas, or other fabric
Roll up or fold for easy truck bed access
Lowest cost tonneau option
$200-$400 for replacement

Hard Tonneau Covers

Made of aluminum, fiberglass, or ABS plastic
Flip open for bed access
More durable than soft covers
$500-$1000 for replacement

Retractable Tonneau Covers

Roll up with mechanical system
Push-button or remote operation
Most expensive option
$1000+ for replacement

So as you can see, tonneau cover replacement costs start around $200 for basic soft covers and go up to over $1000 for retractable covers.

But why such a big range? What makes some covers more expensive to replace than others? Let’s dig into the factors that affect tonneau cover replacement costs.

What factors affect the cost to replace a tonneau cover?

Many things influence how much you’ll pay to replace your old, worn out tonneau. The major factors include:

Type of Tonneau Cover

As we learned above, the type of cover makes a big difference. Basic soft covers are the cheapest while retractable hard covers are the priciest. Opt for a more heavy-duty, high-end cover and you’ll pay more when replacement time comes.

Brand Name

You’ll pay more for big brand name tonneau covers from companies like BakFlip, Extang, and Retrax. Lesser known brands are more affordable. Shop around for a good value from a quality brand.

Cover Size

Does your truck have a small 5’ bed or a big 8’ bed? Tonneau covers for larger truck beds cost more to replace. Measure your bed size before shopping for a new cover.

Cover Material

Covers made of premium materials like aluminum, fiberglass, and high-end vinyl last longer but have a higher replacement cost. Cheaper materials bring the price down but won’t hold up as well.

Special Features

Upgrades like built-in storage boxes, dividers, internal lighting, and remote operation increase the replacement cost for retractable and hinged tonneau covers. Simple vinyl covers don’t have these premium add-ons.

Professional vs DIY Installation

Paying a professional for tonneau cover installation or replacement will add $100-$200 or more to your costs. With basic tools and instructions, many truck owners can DIY it and save money.

As you can see, the type of tonneau, materials, size, features, brand, and installation method all impact the replacement cost. Evaluating what you want in your next tonneau cover will help estimate your budget.

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How can I get the best deal on a replacement tonneau?

No one wants to overpay for a new tonneau. Use these tips to find the best pricing:

Shop end of season sales in fall and winter to save 25% or more.
Search online parts retailers for coupons and closeout deals.
Avoid premium truck dealerships and shop auto parts stores.
Consider reputable online brands with free shipping.
Measure bed size and features needed before shopping around.
Price shop various brands and materials to compare.
Buy a basic soft cover if you’re on a tight budget.
Only pay for features you really need.

With smart shopping, you can find substantial savings on your tonneau cover replacement. Taking the time to research and compare prices is worthwhile to get the cover you want at the best available price.

How much does professional installation cost?

Once you’ve purchased your new tonneau cover, you’ll need to get it installed. Here’s what you can expect to pay:

Soft fold up tonneau cover: $100-$200 for professional installation.
Hinged hard tonneau cover: $150-$250 for professional installation.
Retractable tonneau cover: $200-$400 for professional installation.

So while DIY installation can save you money, you should budget an extra $100+ to have tonneau cover experts do the job. Many local auto shops and truck accessory retailers offer installation services if you don’t want to tackle the project solo.

Is it worth paying more for a premium tonneau cover?

Higher quality tonneau covers last longer, have better warranties, and hold up better in tough weather conditions. While the initial investment is higher, you may save money in the long run by not having to replace a cheap cover after a few years.

Here are signs it’s worth paying more:

You live in an area with extreme weather swings.
You need maximum truck bed protection and security.
You prefer smoother opening/closing with upgraded hydraulic lifts.
You want the versatility of a retractable cover.
You plan to own the truck for 10+ years.

For most basic tonneau needs, a mid-range soft cover is perfectly fine. But frequent use in harsh elements or the need for premium features makes a higher quality cover worthwhile.

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What are signs it’s time to replace a tonneau cover?

Since tonneau covers take so much abuse, they wear out over time. Watch for these signs that your cover needs replacing:

Brittle, cracked, or peeling vinyl or fabric
Corroded or broken aluminum panels
Leaking water into the truck bed
Straps and hardware that keeps loosening or breaking
Hydraulic lift system not working smoothly
Damage from fallen cargo or tree branches
Security features not latching properly

As soon as you notice signs of excessive wear, it’s smart to start shopping for a replacement tonneau. Waiting too long can lead to rust and rot in your truck bed.

Can I upgrade to a different type of tonneau cover?

When the time comes to replace your old tonneau cover, you may want to explore different options. Here are some popular upgrade paths:

From soft roll-up to hinged hard cover for more security and protection.
From basic hinged cover to retractable cover for easier access.
From vinyl cover to premium leather-grained vinyl or lightweight aluminum cover.

Just be sure to measure the dimensions of your truck bed first. Not all cover types fit all bed sizes and shapes. An upgrade is a great chance to get the features and functionality you really want.

Replacing a worn out tonneau cover is part of being a proud pickup truck owner. With proper maintenance, even the most basic covers should last 5-10 years. Now that you know what to expect for replacement costs, you can budget accordingly when that time comes.