I’ve always loved my pickup truck. It’s been my companion for countless adventures, helping me haul everything from camping gear to home renovation supplies.
But there’s one thing that’s never failed to gnaw at me – the fuel consumption.
With every trip to the gas station, I felt like my hard-earned cash was evaporating. That’s when I stumbled upon the idea of tonneau covers. Do they really help with gas mileage?
Based on my research and testing, I would like to share with you what I have discovered.
What Is a Tonneau Cover?
First things first, let’s understand what a tonneau cover is. A tonneau cover is a protective cover that sits over the bed of your pickup truck.
It’s designed to shield your cargo and truck bed from the elements, but it also has a more subtle impact on your gas mileage. How does it work? Let’s dive into the details.
How Tonneau Covers Improve Gas Mileage?
Tonneau covers primarily influence gas mileage through aerodynamics. When your truck is in motion, the air flows over and around it.
Without a cover, the air can get trapped in the bed, creating turbulence and increasing drag.
This added drag means your engine has to work harder to maintain speed, which, in turn, leads to higher fuel consumption.
A tonneau cover, when installed correctly, smoothens the airflow over your truck bed, reducing turbulence and drag. This, in theory, can lead to improved gas mileage.
However, the extent of the impact depends on several factors.
Factors Affecting Fuel Savings with Tonneau Covers
There are several factors that can affect the gas mileage of a pickup truck with a tonneau cover. Let’s explore these factors in some detail:
1. Type of Tonneau Cover
Not all tonneau covers are created equal. There are various types, each with its unique design and aerodynamic properties. The three most common types are:
| Type of Tonneau Cover | Description |
|---|---|
| Roll-Up Tonneau Cover | Rolls up for easy access to the truck bed |
| Folding Tonneau Cover | Folds into sections for versatility |
| Hard Tonneau Cover | Solid and durable, often lockable |
The type of tonneau cover you choose can significantly impact its effectiveness in reducing drag and improving gas mileage.
2. Driving Habits
Your driving style and habits also play a role in determining how much you’ll benefit from a tonneau cover.
If you drive at higher speeds or do a lot of highway driving, the impact of reduced drag may be more noticeable.
3. Vehicle Model
Different pickup trucks have varying aerodynamic profiles.
Some trucks naturally have better aerodynamics than others. The impact of a tonneau cover on gas mileage can be more significant on trucks with less aerodynamic designs.
4. Proper Installation
Proper installation is key to reaping the benefits of a tonneau cover.
Even the best cover won’t help your gas mileage if it’s not correctly installed. Ensure it’s sealed tightly and securely.
How Much Do Tonneau Covers Improve Gas Mileage?
Now that we understand the science and the factors involved, let’s talk numbers.
The actual improvement in gas mileage varies from truck to truck and cover to cover.
However, studies and our tests suggest that you can expect anywhere from a 3% to 5% improvement in fuel efficiency with a tonneau cover.
For example, if your pickup truck averages 20 miles per gallon (MPG) without a tonneau cover, a 5% improvement would boost it to 21 MPG, potentially saving you hundreds of dollars in fuel costs over the year.
Do Tonneau Covers Save Gas?
So, do tonneau covers help gas mileage? The answer is a definite ‘yes,’ but with some caveats.
A tonneau cover can indeed reduce drag and improve your truck’s fuel efficiency.
However, the extent of the improvement depends on various factors, including the type of cover, driving habits, and the specific truck model.
If you’re a truck owner looking to save money on fuel and do your part for the environment, investing in a quality tonneau cover is a sensible choice.
Which Types of Tonneau Covers Save Gas?
As mentioned earlier, there are different types of tonneau covers. Let’s take a closer look at each type and its characteristics:
1. Roll-Up Tonneau Cover
Description: Roll-up tonneau covers are incredibly versatile. They consist of a vinyl or fabric cover that rolls up when not in use.
They are easy to install and provide quick access to your truck bed.
Aerodynamics: Roll-up covers offer reasonable aerodynamics, but they may not be as effective as other types in reducing drag.
2. Folding Tonneau Cover
Description: Folding tonneau covers have panels that fold into sections. They provide a good balance between accessibility and protection.
You can access your truck bed partially or fully, depending on your needs.
Aerodynamics: Folding covers are generally more aerodynamic than roll-up covers due to their solid panels.
3. Hard Tonneau Cover
Description: Hard tonneau covers are the most robust and secure option. They are often made of materials like fiberglass or aluminum and can be locked for enhanced security.
Aerodynamics: Hardcovers are the most aerodynamic option, as their solid and sleek design minimizes air turbulence.
Conclusion
In conclusion, tonneau covers can indeed help improve gas mileage by reducing aerodynamic drag.
The extent of the improvement varies depending on factors like the type of tonneau cover, driving habits, and the specific truck model.
For truck owners looking to save money on fuel and reduce their carbon footprint, investing in a quality tonneau cover is a practical and eco-friendly choice.
FAQs
Do Tonneau Covers Decrease Gas Mileage?
Yes, tonneau covers can actually increase your truck’s gas mileage. These covers improve aerodynamics by reducing air drag, helping you save money at the pump.
What Makes a Truck Get Better Gas Mileage?
Several factors contribute to better gas mileage for your truck:
- Aerodynamics: Using a tonneau cover or keeping your truck bed clean and streamlined can reduce air resistance.
- Proper Maintenance: Regular maintenance, like changing air filters and ensuring tire pressure is optimal, is essential.
- Smooth Driving: Avoiding rapid acceleration and heavy braking can help improve fuel efficiency.
- Lighter Load: Carrying less weight in your truck bed and removing unnecessary items can save fuel.
- Quality Fuel: Using high-quality fuel and keeping your engine in good condition is crucial.
