2020 F-150 Tonneau Cover Sticking? Here's How to Fix It

How to Fix Tonneau Cover Issues on Your Truck Bed

Tonneau cover issues can be frustrating for 2020 Ford F-150 owners. Many rely on these covers to protect their cargo and improve fuel efficiency. "The drop is due to gravity so if the bed is even a little bit higher than the front gravity will cause it to stay in place. Try parking with the front end slightly higher than the bed and I bet it drops," shared one owner regarding tailgate functionality issues that can impact tonneau cover use. This guide will walk you through diagnosing and fixing common tonneau cover problems, based on real owner experiences.

Symptoms

The most common symptom associated with tonneau cover issues on this F-150 involves difficulties with opening or closing the cover smoothly. This can manifest as the cover sticking, binding, or requiring excessive force to operate. You might also notice that the cover doesn't sit flush against the bed rails, creating gaps that allow water or debris to enter.

Another symptom owners have mentioned indirectly relates to the functionality of the tailgate itself. If the tailgate isn't operating correctly, it can affect how well the tonneau cover seals and operates. Some owners have described this as a struggle with the tailgate dropping properly, which consequently affects the tonneau cover's alignment and ease of use.

Additionally, keep an eye out for any visible damage to the tonneau cover itself. This could include tears, cracks, or dents in the cover material, as well as damage to the hinges, latches, or mounting hardware. Such damage can directly impede the tonneau cover's ability to function as intended. A damaged cover may not seal properly, leading to water intrusion and compromising the security of your cargo.

Finally, pay attention to any unusual noises when operating the tonneau cover. Grinding, squeaking, or popping sounds could indicate worn or damaged components. These noises often point to issues with the hinges, latches, or the cover's rolling mechanism. Identifying these early signs can help you address minor problems before they escalate into more significant repairs.

Most Likely Cause

The primary cause of tonneau cover issues on your truck is often related to misalignment or improper installation. Over time, vibrations and normal wear and tear can cause the cover to shift out of alignment. This misalignment can affect how the cover latches, seals, and rolls (if it's a rolling or folding type). Misalignment puts strain on various components, accelerating wear and potentially leading to damage.

How to Diagnose

1. Visual Inspection: Start by thoroughly inspecting the tonneau cover, looking for any obvious signs of damage, such as tears, cracks, or dents. Also, check the condition of the hinges, latches, and mounting hardware.

2. Alignment Check: Examine the cover's alignment with the bed rails. Ensure there are no significant gaps or uneven spacing along the edges. Use a measuring tape to compare the distances between the cover and bed rails at different points to identify any discrepancies.

3. Latch and Hinge Functionality: Test each latch and hinge individually. Make sure they move freely and engage securely. Lubricate any sticking points with a silicone-based lubricant.

4. Rolling/Folding Mechanism: If your tonneau cover has a rolling or folding mechanism, inspect it for any obstructions or binding points. Clean and lubricate the mechanism as needed.

5. Tailgate Interference: Check if the tailgate is interfering with the tonneau cover's operation. Open and close the tailgate to see if it makes contact with the cover, which could indicate misalignment or damage.

6. Water Test: Perform a water test by spraying the tonneau cover with a hose. Check for any leaks inside the truck bed. This will help you identify areas where the cover isn't sealing properly.

Tools needed:

• Measuring tape
• Silicone-based lubricant
• Wrench set
• Screwdriver set
• Hose

Step-by-Step Fix

1. Loosen Mounting Hardware: Use a wrench or screwdriver to slightly loosen the mounting hardware that secures the tonneau cover to the bed rails. This will allow you to make adjustments to the cover's position.

2. Adjust Alignment: Carefully adjust the alignment of the tonneau cover, ensuring it sits evenly on the bed rails. Use a measuring tape to verify that the distances between the cover and bed rails are consistent along all edges.

3. Tighten Mounting Hardware: Once the cover is properly aligned, tighten the mounting hardware securely. Be careful not to overtighten, as this could damage the cover or bed rails.

4. Lubricate Hinges and Latches: Apply a silicone-based lubricant to all hinges and latches to ensure smooth operation. Work the lubricant into the moving parts by opening and closing the cover several times.

5. Adjust Latch Position: If the latches are not engaging properly, adjust their position as needed. Most latches have adjustable screws or bolts that allow you to fine-tune their alignment.

6. Repair or Replace Damaged Components: If you find any damaged components, such as broken hinges or latches, repair or replace them as needed. You can often find replacement parts online or at your local auto parts store.

7. Test Operation: After making the necessary adjustments and repairs, test the tonneau cover's operation. Open and close the cover several times to ensure it moves smoothly and latches securely.

8. Re-Check Water Seal: Perform another water test to verify that the cover is sealing properly. If you still find leaks, make further adjustments to the cover's alignment or sealing strips.

9. Consider Professional Help: If you are unable to resolve the tonneau cover issues yourself, consider taking the vehicle to a professional mechanic or tonneau cover installer. They will have the expertise and tools necessary to diagnose and fix more complex problems. "Mechanic said to buy an extended warranty, bought a 70k mile extended warranty from Ziegler for $1,480 good through 135k miles," shared one owner (source), highlighting the potential value of having professional assistance for unexpected repairs.

Parts and Tools Needed

• Silicone-based lubricant
• Wrench set
• Screwdriver set
• Replacement hinges
• Replacement latches
• Sealing strips
• Measuring tape

Real Owner Costs

The cost of fixing tonneau cover issues can vary widely depending on the nature of the problem and whether you choose to do it yourself or hire a professional.

DIY Repairs:

• Silicone-based lubricant: $5-$10
• Replacement hinges or latches: $10-$50 each
• Sealing strips: $10-$30

Total cost for DIY repairs: $25-$90

Professional Repairs:

• Diagnostic fee: $50-$150
• Labor cost: $75-$150 per hour
• Replacement parts: Varies depending on the component

Example:

• Diagnostic fee: $100
• Labor (2 hours): $200
• Replacement latch: $40

Total cost for professional repair: $340

One owner mentioned spending $1480 on an extended warranty (source), illustrating the financial implications of potential vehicle issues and the peace of mind that warranty coverage can offer.

Prevention

To prevent tonneau cover issues on your truck, regular maintenance is crucial. Clean the cover regularly with a mild soap and water solution to remove dirt and debris. Lubricate the hinges and latches periodically with a silicone-based lubricant. Inspect the cover for any signs of damage or wear, and address any issues promptly. Avoid placing excessive weight on the cover, as this can cause it to sag or become misaligned. Finally, ensure that the cover is properly installed and adjusted according to the manufacturer's instructions.

What Owners Say

Real experiences from FORD owners:

Owner Experiences

"Considering on getting a leveling kit with bigger tires, but I wanna keep the comfortable ride. Any suggestions on a leveling kit that won’t take away the comfort?" — Prestigious-Oil-1789 (source)

"Rear wheel well liners ✅ Considering on getting a leveling kit with bigger tires, but I wanna keep the comfortable ride." — Prestigious-Oil-1789 (source)

"I just got almost the same 2 weeks ago, minus the blue cruise, tray and spray in bed liner at 56 and change." — DynastyTalk (source)

Real Repair Costs

"At 65k miles (out of warranty) I serviced the tranny, lots of metallic. Mechanic said to buy an extended warranty, bought a 70k mile extended warranty from Ziegler for $1,480 good through 135k miles." — Evening-Guava-6446 (source)

"Mechanic said to buy an extended warranty, bought a 70k mile extended warranty from Ziegler for $1,480 good through 135k miles. Now at 82k miles, hard 4th shifts and clunk to reverse when cold and cam phaser noises." — Evening-Guava-6446 (source)

"Unless you load quads or dirt bikes in the back often, I think the Retrax is the best. That being said I don’t have one, I have a soft roll-up cover bc I was too cheap to spend $2k on a bed cover." — cfmistry85 (source)

FAQ

Q: How long does it take to fix tonneau cover issues?

A: The time it takes to fix tonneau cover issues depends on the complexity of the problem. Minor adjustments and lubrication can often be completed in under an hour. More extensive repairs, such as replacing damaged components or realigning the cover, may take several hours.

Q: Can I drive with tonneau cover issues?

A: In many cases, it is safe to drive with minor tonneau cover issues, such as slight misalignment or a loose latch. However, if the cover is severely damaged or not securely latched, it could pose a safety hazard. In such cases, it's best to repair the issue before driving.

Q: Is this a common issue on this F-150?

A: Tonneau cover issues are relatively common on trucks, including this F-150, due to exposure to the elements, vibrations, and normal wear and tear. Regular maintenance can help prevent these issues.

Q: DIY vs mechanic - what's recommended?

A: For minor issues, such as lubrication or simple adjustments, a DIY approach is often sufficient. However, for more complex repairs, such as replacing damaged components or realigning the cover, a professional mechanic or tonneau cover installer is recommended. Their expertise and specialized tools can ensure that the job is done correctly and safely.