How Secure Are Tonneau Covers?

Each style of tonneau cover provides a level of security, from the fundamental element of keeping gear away from prying eyes to covers that integrate with tailgate locks and finally covers that have key-specific locking mechanisms. We’ve classified our tonneau covers into four levels of security – best, better, good, and basic – so you can make the best buying decision for your needs.

Best Security

Painted one-piece tonneau covers are the most secure covers on the market. They lock in a position that overlaps the tailgate, and the tailgate can only be opened if the cover is unlocked and in the upright position. This benefits truck owners who may have a tailgate that does not lock as well as truck owners who want an added layer of security. These covers are available both painted to match your truck and in a more affordable plain black finish.

• UnderCover LUX – A painted-to-match cover made of strong ABS composite, this cover closes over the top of the tailgate and comes with a unique set of keys for ultimate security.

• Ranch SportWrap – This custom painted fiberglass cover is lightweight and durable, and it has a triple seal system to keep out moisture and other debris. Lockable with a unique set of keys and a remote entry option.

• UnderCover SE – Made of impact and UV resistant ABS composite, this matte black hinged tonneau cover is very similar to the LUX SE and also comes with a set of unique keys.

Better Security

This level lends a higher safeguard standard for valuables and comprises the majority of cover types, including hard rolling covers, hard folding covers, retractable covers, and heavy-duty covers. Most work in tandem with a locking tailgate, which, when locked, makes the truck bed more secure than the cab. Many older trucks and second generation Tacomas do not have locking tailgates, but the Pop & Lock keyed tailgate lock is an easy solution. Covers in this category either work with a pull latch under the cover, a keyed latch on top of the cover that may work independently of the tailgate, or consist of a multi-section lockable cover.

• BAK Revolver X4 - The X4 features a matte black finish over aluminum slats. Its lock works via pull cord that is only accessible with an open tailgate.

• BAKFlip G2 - Similar to the eMAX, this hard folding cover can only be opened with the pull cord, accessible through an open tailgate.

• Gator Trax - This retractable cover works independently of the tailgate and instead opens with a lockable push button found on top of the cover.

DiamondBack HD - This heavy-duty tonneau cover is constructed of aluminum alloy and opens in two parts independent of the tailgate. Each part is lockable.

Good Security

Granting more protection than the out-of-sight, out-of-mind protection that snap covers afford are the soft roll-up and soft folding tonneau covers in this category. These tonneau covers are constructed of durable yet flexible vinyl, nylon, or canvas material. Though most lock in union with the tailgate and are opened via a pull latch on the underside of the cover, soft roll-up and folding covers receive this security grade because the soft material can be pierced with a sharp object.

• TruXedo TruXport - Securing to the side rails with hook and loop closure, this tonneau cover locks in place with a latch that can only be opened if the tailgate itself is open.

• Extang eMAX - This soft folding cover is opened via pull cord that is only accessible with an open tailgate.

Basic Security

All tonneau covers have at least a basic level of security. When fully closed, a tonneau of any security level covers your truck’s bed and passersby are none the wiser to anything that may be inside. This is the primary aspect of non-locking, fabric covers that do not integrate with the tailgate, such as snap covers. Snap covers use heavy-duty snaps to attach to an aluminum frame that is clamped to the bedrail, though they earn this security rating because of their universal access - they can be opened by anyone.

• • Advantage Sure Fit - A vinyl top over aluminum rails, this cover installs quickly and allows anyone to access any corner of the truck bed with the simple snap closure.

  • Extang BlackMax - This three-ply vinyl cover with an aluminum frame and removable crossbows can be easily adapted to haul large items. Its snap closure grants bed access at any point.

  There are many benefits to installing a tonneau cover, and they vary with each model. If you need help measuring your truck bed, check out our helpful article or contact our product experts.