Are Tonneau Covers Noisy?
Recently, we have seen many car owners asking questions like "Are tonneau covers noisy?" on the forum. Whether it is a hard or a soft tonneau cover, under certain conditions, it will produce noise. For example, when driving at high speed, the tonneau cover will flap or vibrate for some reason, making an annoying sound.
In this article, we will introduce to you why the tonneau cover makes noise, what different sounds there are, and how to reduce the noise.
Why do some tonneau covers make noise?
As a pickup truck owner, have you ever encountered the problem of tonneau cover making noise? This noise is always annoying. To reduce or eliminate the noise from the root, you need to understand the reasons why the tonneau cover makes noise. Here are 7 common reasons for it:
Loose fit or improper installation
If the tonneau cover is not securely fastened to the truck bed, it will move or vibrate during driving, causing noise. This noise is more noticeable when you are driving at high speeds and the wind increases significantly. This happens mainly because the provided clamps, bolts or latches do not securely secure the tonneau cover to the truck bed, and do not form a tight fit between the cover and the truck bed.
Material flexing
This happens mainly with soft tonneau covers. Soft tonneau covers are made of vinyl, fabric, or canvas and are more prone to noise than hard tonneau covers. The flexible material will shake or vibrate due to the wind, which will then produce a drumming sound, and the noise will become louder as the speed increases. Although the design of soft tonneau covers is aerodynamic, over time, when they are often exposed to sunlight and wind, this stretches the material and the soft tonneau covers become loose.
Worn or damaged components
No product can withstand the test of time. They will age one day. The components of the tonneau cover are no exception. Its clamps, seals, hinges or latches will wear or damage over time. Loose or misaligned parts will cause rattling noises while driving. If you have a hard tonneau cover with multiple panels or moving parts (such as folding or retractable designs), it is more likely to cause noise due to component damage.
Design and aerodynamics
The structural design of a tonneau cover also affects how noisy it is. But it is not the most important thing because it is difficult to solve. You will not buy a more expensive tonneau cover just to eliminate the noise. For example, hard folding tonneau covers will produce more noise due to the seams and hinges. One-piece hard covers are quieter because they provide a more streamlined design and are more aerodynamic. But one-piece hard covers tend to cost 2-3 times as much as folding tonneau covers, which easily exceeds most people's budget.
Weather conditions and wind noise
In addition to some reasons for the tonneau cover itself, strong winds are an important reason for the noise. The wind will enter from the edge of the cover, and even a well-installed cover will produce a whistling or flapping sound, which is more common in soft tonneau covers.
Water accumulation
When it rains or snows, water will accumulate on the soft tonneau cove, which lacks adequate tension or structural support. The accumulated water will increase the weight of the cover, causing it to sag. If you turn or make sudden movements while driving, you will hear splashing or shaking sounds.
Bedliner compatibility
Some bed liners will create a gap between the tonneau cover and the cargo box rails, causing air leaks, vibrations, and noises while driving. If the tonneau cover and bed liner do not match, it will cause rubbing or scraping sounds. Therefore, consider their compatibility when installing the two.
The different types of tonneau cover noises
Different noises have different causes. Here are some of the noises you may hear when driving a truck with a tonneau cover:
Wind noise
Wind noise is one of the most common tonneau cover noises. If your tonneau cover is not securely fastened, air can get in from the gaps under the tonneau cover and create vibrations or flapping. Soft tonneau covers are more prone to wind noise because they are very flexible and the material will rise and fall in the wind. If you have a hard tonneau cover, it will also create wind noise if it is not aligned correctly or the wind seal is damaged.
Rattling or vibrations
If you hear a rattling noise while driving, this means that your tonneau cover is loose or some parts (such as the guides or clamps) are not fixed correctly. Metal and hard folding tonneau covers can sometimes cause rattling noises if they are not firmly locked in place or the hinges are not lubricated. The vibrations will be more noticeable when driving over rough terrain.
Flapping
The flapping noise is mainly caused by soft tonneau covers. If your soft tonneau cover is not installed correctly or is not properly tensioned, the fabric or vinyl material will flap in the wind while driving, creating a loud and repetitive noise.
Squeaking
Squeaking occurs when the bed cover or its components rub against the truck bed rails or other parts of the truck. This is more common in hard bed covers with hinges or sliding parts. Squeaking is usually caused by friction between metal parts or dried-out rubber seals.
Creaking
Creaking is another noise that can be heard when a tonneau cover flexes or moves when you're driving over uneven surfaces. Hard covers (especially trifold and retractable designs) can sometimes creak if the panels aren't aligned properly or the hinges are worn. Creaking can also be the result of the cover expanding and contracting due to temperature changes.
How to reduce or eliminate tonneau cover noises?
Reducing or eliminating these noises can enhance the driving experience. Here are some strategies to consider:
Ensure proper installation
Improper installation is one of the main reasons for noisy tonneau covers. A tonneau cover that is not securely installed can make a rattling or flapping sound on the truck bed while driving. At this time, you need to check that all clamps, bolts and brackets are firmly fixed and re-secured if they are loose. Check these parts regularly to make sure they have not loosened due to vibration or wear. For retractable or roll-up tonneau covers, make sure the rails are properly aligned to avoid misalignment that causes the tonneau cover to move and make noise.
Add weatherstripping or sealing tape
Gaps between the hood and the bed of your truck can allow air to flow through, which can cause flapping noises. Adding weatherstripping or rubber sealing tape around the edges of your hood can prevent air from entering these gaps, reducing wind noise and preventing vibrations. It also keeps out dust and water, providing extra protection for your cargo.
Use foam padding or insulation
If you have a hard tonneau cover, placing foam pads or insulation under the cover can dampen vibrations and reduce noise. This is especially useful with metal covers, which can rattle when driving over rough terrain. Foam strips or soundproofing pads can be cut to size and placed between the cover and the truck bed, providing a cushioning effect and minimizing noise. Most covers now come with foam blocks already provided for you to reduce noise generation.
Check and adjust the tension
The Soft roll-up tonneau cover has an adjustable tension system that requires a tight fit when used. If the cover is too loose, it will flutter in the wind, creating noise. On the other hand, if the cover is too tight, it will stretch the fabric, causing potential damage. Adjusting the tension to achieve a tight but not over-stretched fit can significantly reduce flapping noise.
Lubricate moving parts
Telescopic or folding truck beds have moving parts that can squeak or rattle if not properly cared for. Lubricate hinges, rollers, and other moving parts regularly with a silicone-based lubricant to ensure everything runs smoothly. Avoid using petroleum-based products, which can damage rubber seals.
Check for damage or wear
Aging and wear of the tonneau cover can also cause noise. Check the rear cover regularly for signs of damage, such as cracks, tears or worn seals. Replace worn parts or repair damaged parts to avoid noise problems in time. For soft covers, check whether the material is worn or loose, which can cause it to vibrate at high speeds.
Drive mindfully
While modifications can help reduce noise, good driving habits can also help. Wind noise increases when driving at high speeds. Slightly reducing your speed can reduce the amount of air hitting the hood, resulting in a quieter ride. Additionally, careful driving over rough terrain can prevent excessive vibration and noise.
FAQs
Can I eliminate noise from my tonneau cover?
It may not be possible to eliminate the noise. To reduce the noise of the truck bed cover, you can check that the cover is installed tightly and aligned to ensure that it is not loose. Use weatherstripping to fill the gap between the cover and the truck bed to reduce wind noise. Lubricate the hinges of hard covers to prevent rubbing. You can add foam pads or rubber cushions between the panels of folding covers to reduce vibration. Install wind deflectors to help reduce wind interference. If the parts are old or damaged, replace them promptly. Choosing a cover with a low-profile design can also reduce wind resistance, thereby reducing noise. If the noise persists, you can try reinstalling the cover.
Will a soft tonneau cover flap in the wind?
Soft tonneau covers can flap in the wind if not properly secured. However, most modern soft tonneau covers have a tension adjustment system and durable latches to keep the fabric taut and minimize flapping.
Conclusion
It is undeniable that a tonneau cover will make noise while driving your truck. Proper installation and regular maintenance can help you reduce the noise. If you are very concerned about noise, then a hard or one-piece tonneau cover is your best choice.
