How to Fix Common 2020 F-150 Tonneau Cover Issues

How to Fix Your 2020 Ford F-150 Tonneau Cover Issue

This guide focuses on addressing common tonneau cover problems reported by 2020 Ford F-150 owners. Sometimes, the issue might not be obvious at first. As one owner shared: "I literally just told my wife yesterday it was the tonneau cover stopping it butttt now I’m not so sure" — MRichardTRM. Let's dive into the common issues and how you can troubleshoot and fix them.

Symptoms

Many 2020 Ford F-150 owners experience issues with their tonneau covers that can manifest in several ways. One common problem is difficulty with the tailgate operation. If your tailgate isn't dropping smoothly, the tonneau cover could be the culprit. The weather stripping on the cover might be pressing too tightly against the tailgate.

Another symptom related to your tonneau cover could be water accumulating in the truck bed. This often indicates a problem with the drainage system. The tubes designed to remove water might be kinked, clogged, or disconnected.

Wrinkles in the tonneau cover material can also be an indicator of a problem. These wrinkles could be caused by environmental factors, improper installation, or material degradation over time. If left unaddressed, wrinkles can worsen and potentially compromise the cover’s functionality and appearance.

You might also notice an increase in pollen or debris accumulating in the truck bed. This is especially noticeable if you’ve previously experienced a clean, sealed bed. A compromised tonneau cover seal can allow more contaminants to enter the bed.

Most Likely Cause

The most common underlying cause, based on owner reports, involves issues with the tonneau cover's adjustment and drainage system. A tonneau cover that's positioned too far back, pressing against the tailgate, restricts smooth operation. Additionally, issues with the drainage tubes can lead to water accumulation in the truck bed. As Bit_the_Bullitt shared, "The tonneau is probably too far back and needs adjusted to be closer to the cab. My current one is like that, the weather strip squeezes the tailgate too much and it wont drop."

How to Diagnose

Start by visually inspecting the tonneau cover's positioning. Check the gap between the cover and the truck cab; too little space indicates it's positioned too far back. Next, examine the weather stripping where the tonneau cover meets the tailgate. Look for excessive compression or damage.

To diagnose drainage issues, locate the drainage tubes. These are usually near the tailgate and may be near the front of the bed. Check for kinks, clogs, or disconnections. You can test the drainage by pouring a small amount of water near the drainage holes and observing whether it flows freely.

For wrinkles or damage, carefully inspect the tonneau cover material. Pay attention to areas near the edges, seams, and hinges. Look for tears, cracks, or signs of wear and tear. Note any points where the cover might not be sealing properly against the truck bed.

Tools you'll need:

• A flashlight for visual inspection
• A small container for testing drainage
• A measuring tape for checking tonneau cover alignment

Step-by-Step Fix

Here's a step-by-step guide to fixing the common tonneau cover issues reported by 2020 Ford F-150 owners:

1. Adjust the Tonneau Cover Position: Loosen the tonneau cover mounting clamps or bolts. Gently shift the cover forward, towards the cab, to create a small gap between the cover and the tailgate.
2. Re-tighten the Clamps/Bolts: Once the cover is in the correct position, retighten the mounting clamps or bolts. Make sure they are snug, but not overtightened, to prevent damage to the cover or the truck bed rails.
3. Inspect and Adjust Weather Stripping: Examine the weather stripping for wear, damage, or improper placement. If it's damaged, consider replacing it. If it's simply misplaced, adjust it so that it creates a proper seal without excessive compression.
4. Clear Drainage Tubes: Locate the drainage tubes. If they are kinked, gently straighten them or consider replacing them with more flexible tubing. If they are clogged, use a small wire or compressed air to clear any debris. As FuelK02 shared, they "tried to fix my tonneau cover drainage tubes since the ones near the tailgate were kinked and wouldn't drain water anymore due to build up of debris. Cut the tubes where they were bent to try and help with the drainage."
5. Test the Drainage: Pour a small amount of water near the drainage holes and observe if it flows freely through the tubes. If the water doesn't drain properly, repeat step 4 until the drainage is clear.
6. Address Wrinkles (If Possible): For minor wrinkles, try using a heat gun (on a low setting) to gently warm the material. While warming, smooth out the wrinkles with your hand or a soft cloth. Be careful not to overheat the material, as this can cause damage. For more severe wrinkles, consult a professional upholstery shop.
7. Clean the Tonneau Cover: Regularly clean the tonneau cover with mild soap and water to remove dirt, pollen, and debris. This will help maintain its appearance and prevent buildup that could interfere with its operation.
8. Inspect and Tighten Fasteners: Periodically inspect all fasteners, including clamps, bolts, and screws, to ensure they are tight and secure. Loose fasteners can cause the tonneau cover to shift out of position.
9. Check for Seal Integrity: After making adjustments and repairs, check the seal integrity of the tonneau cover. Close the cover and inspect for any gaps or areas where water or debris could enter.

Parts and Tools Needed

• Socket set or wrench set: For loosening and tightening mounting clamps/bolts.
• Screwdriver set: For adjusting screws on weather stripping or other components.
• Replacement weather stripping: If the existing weather stripping is damaged (part number will vary depending on tonneau cover model).
• Replacement drainage tubes: If the existing tubes are kinked or damaged (part number will vary depending on tonneau cover model).
• Heat gun (optional): For addressing wrinkles in the tonneau cover material.
• Mild soap and water: For cleaning the tonneau cover.
• Soft cloth or sponge: For applying soap and water.
• Small wire or compressed air: For clearing drainage tubes.
• Measuring tape: For checking tonneau cover alignment.

While not directly related to the tonneau cover, some owners also address minor cosmetic issues like paint dings. As Stosh21 mentioned, "Didn’t break the paint but got a small ding. When we get to spring I might have the PDR shop that fixed the hail damage repair this ding along a few others that were there when I bought it." While this quote is about a paint ding, it's a reminder that maintaining the overall condition of your truck can improve its appearance and value.

Real Owner Costs

The cost of fixing tonneau cover issues on your 2020 Ford F-150 can vary widely, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose to DIY or hire a professional.

• DIY Adjustments and Cleaning: This typically costs very little, as it only requires basic tools and cleaning supplies you may already have. The cost could be as low as $0 if you have everything on hand.
• Replacing Weather Stripping or Drainage Tubes: The cost of parts can range from $20 to $100, depending on the brand and quality of the replacement parts. DIY labor is free, but professional installation could add another $50 to $150.
• Professional Tonneau Cover Adjustment: A mechanic or tonneau cover specialist might charge $50 to $200 to adjust the cover and ensure a proper seal.
• PDR for Dents: Stosh21 mentioned using a PDR (Paintless Dent Repair) shop for fixing dings, which can cost around $100-$300 per ding.
• Motorcycle Trailer Rental: Steve Butters mentioned renting a U-Haul motorcycle trailer for $60 per weekend, an alternative to using the truck bed if the tonneau cover isn't functioning properly.

Keep in mind that these are just estimates, and the actual cost may vary depending on your location and the specific service provider.

Prevention

Preventing tonneau cover issues on your 2020 Ford F-150 involves regular maintenance and care.

• Regular Cleaning: Clean the tonneau cover regularly with mild soap and water to remove dirt, pollen, and debris. This helps maintain its appearance and prevents buildup that could interfere with its operation.
• Inspect and Tighten Fasteners: Periodically inspect all fasteners, including clamps, bolts, and screws, to ensure they are tight and secure. Loose fasteners can cause the tonneau cover to shift out of position.
• Check Weather Stripping: Regularly inspect the weather stripping for wear, damage, or improper placement. Replace damaged weather stripping promptly to maintain a proper seal.
• Clear Drainage Tubes: Check and clear the drainage tubes regularly to prevent clogs that could lead to water accumulation in the truck bed.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on the tonneau cover, as these can damage the material.
• Protect from Extreme Weather: If possible, park your truck in a garage or under a cover to protect the tonneau cover from extreme weather conditions, such as direct sunlight, heavy rain, or snow.

What Owners Say

Real experiences from FORD owners:

Success Stories

"Didn’t break the paint but got a small ding. When we get to spring I might have the PDR shop that fixed the hail damage repair this ding along a few others that were there when I bought it." — Stosh21 (source)

"When we get to spring I might have the PDR shop that fixed the hail damage repair this ding along a few others that were there when I bought it." — Stosh21 (source)

Owner Experiences

"I literally just told my wife yesterday it was the tonneau cover stopping it butttt now I’m not so sure" — MRichardTRM (source)

"I bought a tonneau cover directly from Leer's website this past May. Got the order confirmation in short order via email then the next day got an email with a UPS tracking number when it shipped." — Q-Picard (source)

"The tonneau is probably too far back and needs adjusted to be closer to the cab. My current one is like that, the weather strip squeezes the tailgate too much and it wont drop" — Bit_the_Bullitt (source)

Real Repair Costs

"Truck looks brand new. Ford Gold CPO so another 12mo of warranty b2b and an added 12 on the powertrain. $39k even, not a cent more, including all tax title and license fees (so a real “out-the-door” number)." — gravitologist (source)

"I'd only use a few times per year, so maybe a uhaul motorcycle trailer rental for $60 per weekend would be better. I don't want to get the bike in the bed to take it to the track." — Steve Butters (source)

FAQ

Q: How long does it take to fix a tonneau cover drainage issue?

A: Clearing a clogged drainage tube is often a quick fix, typically taking 15-30 minutes. However, adjusting the tonneau cover position or replacing weather stripping may take 1-2 hours.

Q: Can I drive with a tonneau cover drainage issue?

A: Yes, you can drive with a tonneau cover drainage issue, but it's not recommended to leave it unaddressed for long periods. Water accumulation in the truck bed can lead to rust and corrosion, potentially damaging cargo.

Q: Is this a common issue on the 2020 Ford F-150?

A: Tonneau cover issues are not necessarily unique to the 2020 Ford F-150, but they can occur on any truck with a tonneau cover. The frequency of these issues depends on factors such as the quality of the tonneau cover, environmental conditions, and maintenance practices.

Q: DIY vs mechanic - what's recommended?

A: Simple adjustments, cleaning, and clearing drainage tubes are usually suitable for DIY. However, if you're not comfortable working on your vehicle or if the problem is more complex (such as replacing the entire tonneau cover or addressing significant damage), it's best to consult a professional mechanic or tonneau cover specialist.