Do Tonneau covers reduce fuel economy?

New Taco owner, total Newb.

Looking to get a tonneau cover. I would ideally like something that is hard and folding, that could support ~300 pounds of extra weight on top of it.

Any recommendations? Also, would this significantly impact my fuel economy?

Can you even get OEM covers unless they come with the truck?

 

You can buy OEM accessories from the dealer, they can probably even install them.

I doubt that any OEM covers are going to support any real weight.

It probably won't have any significant impact on fuel economy.

There will probably be someone coming along shortly with "If you're worried about MPG, why did you buy a truck"

 

You can get a used one for alot cheaper. Check the buy/sell section. They are durable but not meant to hold any real weight. For that, you will need a rack.

 

Fold-a-cover. Four sections. Rock solid secure dry. Check it out and good luck.

 

If anything a cover will make your fuel economy better, not much but it definitely won't make it worse

 

I weigh 180#s can stand on my stock OEM tonneau cover no worries no problems. Been doing it for almost 3 years.

OP - if you didn't get a cover when you bought your truck, take a look at the 3rd Gen Marketplace here. Lots of guys switching to Softoppers sell both short and LB versions. Should be able to score a slighty used one for $400-$500 pickup only usually so patience and you get a good deal. There are several for sale right now.

 

Myth Busters did a episode on Tonneau covers and it was debunked! Did NOT improve fuel economy!

 

For myself this is true. Mpg didnt change for better or worse after putting one on.

 

Sorry, seems I was delayed.

"If you're worried about MPG, why did you buy a truck"

 

The tonneau cover can not currently be purchased from a dealer, and it only comes as an accessory with certain truck colors . I just bought my taco the other day and that’s what they told me.

 

Should suit your needs and some.
Pickup Truck Bed Covers For Sale - Peragon®

 

myth busters says they do not add or reduce fuel economy!

 

it improved my mpgs on the highway by quite a bit

 

https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/news/2013/08/pickup-truck-tailgates-and-fuel-economy/index.htm

Mpg with soft cover.