If you have an Undercover tonneau cover on your truck, you know how important it is to keep the rubber seals in good condition. The seals help keep out water, dust, and dirt while providing a tight seal around the edges of your truck bed.
But seals can wear out over time and need replacing. So where can you find the right rubber seals for Undercover tonneau covers? In this comprehensive guide, we will explore all the best places to buy replacement seals for Undercover and other truck bed covers.
What Are Tonneau Cover Seals?
Tonneau cover seals are rubber or foam strips that run along the edges of the tonneau cover where it meets the sides and tailgate of the truck bed. The seals compress when the cover is closed to create a watertight and dust-tight barrier. This protects your truck’s bed and any cargo inside from the elements.
There are a few different types of seals used on tonneau covers:
- Bulb seals – These have a round, bulbous shape and are often made of dense rubber. Bulb seals compress when the cover closes to block out water.
- Foam seals – Foam seals are made of soft, compressible foam rubber. The foam smashes down when closed to seal out moisture and dust.
- Weatherstrip seals – These seals have a wide, flat profile made of rubber, foam, or a combination of materials. Weatherstrips provide a larger sealing surface.
- Magnetic seals – Magnetic tonneau seals use embedded magnets to hold the seal tightly against the truck bed for maximum compression.
Why Do Tonneau Seals Need Replacing?
Tonneau cover seals endure a lot of wear and tear. Over time, the seals get compressed and decompressed hundreds of times as you open and close the truck bed cover. Weather elements like sun, rain, snow, and dirt also deteriorate the seals. As the rubber wears down, it loses its flexibility and sealing performance.
Some signs that your tonneau seals need replacing include:
- Visible cracking, splitting, or drying of the seals
- Leaks around the cover, especially during rain or washing
- Seals have become stiff, brittle, or permanently flattened
- Cover feels loose and rattles over bumps
- Gaps along the edges allow dust and debris into the bed
Replacing degraded seals is important to protect your truck bed and any cargo from getting soaked or contaminated. Even small leaks can allow significant water intrusion over time. Worn seals also allow more road noise and wind into the cab.
Where To Buy Undercover Tonneau Seals
If you need new seals for an UnderCover brand tonneau, like the Flex, Elite, Classic, or other models, here are some great places to shop:
UnderCover Parts Website
The easiest way to get guaranteed-compatible seals is to purchase them directly from UnderCover at [https://undercoverinfo.com/]. The website offers all the seals and hardware needed for UnderCover tonneau covers.
You can search for your specific tonneau model, and the site will show the seals designed for that cover. Kits are available with all the seals you’ll need in one purchase. UnderCover also has instructional videos showing how to replace the seals on your model.
Amazon
Searching Amazon is another good option for UnderCover seals. Look for “UnderCover tonneau seals” or your specific cover model number. Many third-party sellers offer UnderCover branded seals on Amazon.
Double check that the product images and descriptions match the seals you need prior to ordering. Amazon also stocks universal seals that fit UnderCover and other brands.
Truck Outfitters Plus
This online retailer specializes in truck parts and accessories. They stock Direct OEM replacements for seals that fit UnderCover, BakFlip, Retrax, Extang, and other brands. You can search by make, model, and year. Their products are molded to perfectly fit your truck.
LMPerformance
LMP offers a wide selection of aftermarket and custom truck parts. Check their tonneau covers section for DIY seal kits. They have universal T-bulb seals for Undercover covers in various lengths and colors. LMPerformance also has helpful DIY instructions.
Local Dealerships
Your local truck dealership is another option, especially if you bought your UnderCover tonneau from them. The parts department can look up and order seals tailored for your truck. This route may be pricier but provides peace of mind.
Buying Seals for Other Tonneau Brands
If you don’t have an UnderCover tonneau but need new seals, you can find compatible options for other brands:
Manufacturer’s Website
Most major tonneau brands like BakFlip, Retrax, Extang, and others have online parts stores. They offer factory seals and hardware designed to properly fit your specific cover. OEM seals guarantee an ideal fit.
Amazon/Auto Parts Stores
Amazon, AutoZone, Pep Boys, and similar retailers sell universal seals in various lengths, widths, and materials. Flexible foam bulb seals tend to work well for any hard folding or retractable cover. Measure your originals first to get the right size.
Truck Forums & Groups
Online truck forums like TacomaWorld and Facebook groups for your truck brand are great resources. You can ask for recommendations on finding quality aftermarket seals for your tonneau make and model.
Auto Upholstery Shops
For a custom solution, many auto upholstery shops can fabricate new seals made-to-measure for your cover. This option costs more but lets you get seals tailored to your exact specifications.
Truck Bed Seal Alternatives
If seals are unavailable for your old, discontinued, or custom tonneau cover, there are a few alternatives:
- Adhesive weatherstrip tape
- Closed cell foam strips
- Rubber tubing sliced lengthwise
- Dense rubber strips formed with a heat gun
These provide a watertight barrier when attached properly but may not integrate as seamlessly as purpose-made seals.
How To Replace Tonneau Cover Seals
Once you’ve got your new seals, installing them is a straightforward DIY project:
Step 1 – Clean all sealing surfaces of old debris, dirt, and adhesive. Rubbing alcohol works well.
Step 2 – Make sure the new seals are sized right by test fitting along the edges. Cut to length if needed.
Step 3 – Remove the old seals completely. A plastic pry tool helps avoid damaging the truck.
Step 4 – Carefully peel off the adhesive backing and stick on the new seals. Take your time to position them perfectly.
Step 5 – Press the seals down firmly so the adhesive forms a solid bond. Top mounting also helps.
Step 6 – Open and close the cover, making sure the new seals compress snugly on all sides. Add small strips if any gaps remain.
Step 7 – Allow 24 hours for the adhesive to fully cure before driving. Check for leaks next time it rains.
With fresh seals keeping the elements out, your tonneau cover will open and close tightly for years to come. Be sure to periodically clean and condition the seals to maximize their lifespan. Keep an eye out for damage or leaks so you can replace individual seals as soon as issues arise. Happy trucking!
