Are you wondering what size tonneau cover is suitable for your Chevy Colorado? We’ll explore the process step by step to ensure a perfect fit.
We’ll guide you through everything from measuring the length to considering factors like width, height, and tailgate position.
Plus, we’ll provide essential information about the best tonneau covers, their benefits, and maintenance tips.
Get ready to enhance your truck’s functionality and style with the right tonneau cover.
What Size Tonneau Cover For Chevy Colorado?
There are a few different sizes of tonneau covers available for the Chevy Colorado. The most common bed size is a 5-foot and 2-inch (61.7-inch) for crew cab (Short Box).
Extended Cab and Crew Cab (Long Box) bed sizes are 6-foot and 2-inch (74-inch). The tonneau cover size you need will depend on the size of your truck bed.
How To Measure Your Chevy Colorado Truck Bed For A Tonneau Cover
Gather the necessary tools and materials
You will need a measuring tape that is at least 8 to 10 feet long and something to write down the measurements.
Lower the tailgate and position yourself behind your truck
Stand in a position where you can easily access the truck bed and reach the measuring tape across its length.
Measure from the bulkhead to the tailgate
Starting from the bulkhead wall, which is located at the front of the bed right behind the cab, extend your measuring tape along the floor of the bed until you reach the inside edge of the tailgate.
Record the measurement in inches
Once you reach the inside edge of the tailgate, record the measurement in inches. This will give you the length of your truck bed.
Convert the measurement to feet
Divide the number of inches by 12 to determine the length of your truck bed in feet. For example, if the measurement is 72 inches, dividing by 12 would give you 6 feet.
Consider rounding up
Keep in mind that most bed manufacturers round their bed sizes up, so if your measurement is between two options, choose the option closest to your measurement.
Factors To Consider When Measuring Your Truck Bed
Length of the Truck Bed
The length of your truck bed is a crucial measurement. It determines the available space for hauling cargo and installing accessories like tonneau covers, bed liners, and nerf bars.
To measure the length, start from the front left corner to the back left corner of the inside of your truck bed.
Use a tape measure and ensure it runs in a straight line parallel to the top of the bed. Write down this measurement as the “length” of your truck bed.
Width of the Truck Bed
The width of the truck bed is another important consideration. It determines the maximum width of cargo or the required width of certain accessories.
To measure the width, have a friend help you stretch a tape measure across the inside of the truck bed from the left sidewall to the right sidewall.
Ensure the tape measure is straight and level with the top of the bed. Record this measurement as the “width” of your truck bed.
Height of the Truck Bed
The height of the truck bed may not be directly related to measuring, but it’s essential to consider when loading or unloading cargo.
Measure the height from the floor of the truck bed to the top of the bed walls. This measurement helps you determine the clearance required for certain items and the ease of access to the bed.
Tailgate Position
The position of your truck’s tailgate affects the measurements and compatibility of accessories. When measuring the length, ensure the tailgate is closed.
However, some accessories may require measurements with the tailgate open or removed.
Always refer to the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer of the accessory you intend to install.
Consider Bed Liners
If you have a bed liner installed in your truck bed, take it into account when measuring.
Bed liners can add thickness, affecting the available space and compatibility with certain accessories.
Measure the truck bed with the bed liner in place to ensure accurate measurements for accessories or cargo.
Rounding of Bed Sizes
Keep in mind that some bed manufacturers may round up the bed sizes. If your measurement falls between two options, choose the option closest to your measurement.
Most accessories have a range of sizes available to accommodate slight variations in bed measurements.
Quick Comparison Of Different Tonneau Covers For Chevy Colorado
| Tonneau Cover | Price | Bed Size Compatibility | Material | Access | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAKFlip MX4 | $899 | 5’2″ and 6’2″ | Heavy-duty aluminum | Full bed access | 5-year warranty |
| Gator EFX Hard Fold | $549 | 5’2″ and 6’2″ | Aircraft-grade aluminum | 2/3 bed access | 3-year warranty |
| TruXedo TruXport | $299 | 6’2″ | Heavy-duty materials | Full bed access | 5-year warranty |
| RetraxPro XR | $1,799 | 6’2″ | Aluminum slats | Complete bed access | Limited lifetime warranty |
| TruXedo Lo Pro | $499 | 5’2″ and 6’2″ | Vinyl | Full bed access | Limited lifetime warranty |
| Extang Trifecta 2.0 | $449 | 5’2″ and 6’2″ | Aluminum frame | 2/3 bed access | Limited lifetime warranty |
| Tonnopro Tri-Fold | $269 | 5’2″ and 6’2″ | Marine-grade vinyl | Tri-fold, 2/3 bed access | Limited lifetime warranty |
12 Best Tonneau Covers For Chevy Colorado Truck Bed
BAKFlip MX4 Tonneau Cover – Price: $899
Realtruck, the parent company of TruckHero, makes the BAKFlip MX4 Tonneau Cover and offers full bed access for your Chevy Colorado with a 5’2″ and 6’2″ bed.
When you need to haul large items, simply fold the cover toward your cab and secure it in place with the supplied prop rods.
The upgraded side rails hold the cover in place while shut, and the triple fin seals allow the tailgate to operate whether the cover is open or closed.
The cover features a sleek matte black finish, and installation can be done without drilling into the truck bed. The MX4 is made from heavy-duty aluminum and comes with a 5-year warranty.
Gator SFX Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover – Price: $299
The Gator SFX Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover is made by RealTruck, the Parent Company Of TruckHero, and fits your Chevy Colorado with a 5’2″ and 6’2″ bed.
It uses premium tear-resistant vinyl and features fastening buckles and a speed clamp for secure and easy operation.
The cover comes with monster support bows that provide added support in case of heavy rain, hail, or snow.
It has a marine-grade vinyl cover, a lightweight aluminum frame, and a limited lifetime structural warranty.
BAK Revolver X4s Tonneau Cover – Price: $1,049
RealTruck makes the BAK Revolver X4s Tonneau Cover and fits your Chevy Colorado with a 5’2″ and 6’2″ bed.
It features a cut-resistant aluminum slat construction and a marine-grade vinyl overlay.
The cover has a matte black finish and provides complete bed access when fully rolled to the bulkhead.
It has an easy-to-use latch mechanism and supports up to 400 lbs. of weight. The Revolver X4s is compatible with most 5th wheel hitches and has a five-year warranty.
Gator EFX Hard Fold Tonneau Cover – Price: $549
RealTruck makes the Gator EFX Hard Fold Tonneau Cover and fits your Chevy Colorado with a 5’2″ and 6’2″ bed.
It features heavy-duty aircraft-grade aluminum construction and a sleek black powder coat finish.
The cover has heavy-duty EPDM rubber hinges, offering up to 300 lbs. of load capacity.
It provides 2/3 bed access for transporting oversized cargo and has foam-rubber seals to prevent water intrusion.
The installation is simple and has no drill, and the cover comes with a three-year warranty.
TruXedo TruXport Tonneau Cover – Price: $299
The TruXedo TruXport Tonneau Cover is made by RealTruck and fits your Chevy Colorado with a 6’2″ bed. It features a Velcro roll-up cover and no-drill clamps for easy installation.
The cover provides full bed access and has a low-profile design when rolled up.
It has pre-set tension controls to keep the cover tight in any season and is made from heavy-duty materials. The TruXport comes with a five-year warranty.
RetraxPro XR Tonneau Cover – Price: $1,799
RealTruck makes the RetraxPro XR Tonneau Cover and fits your Chevy Colorado with a 6’2″ bed.
It features industrial-strength aluminum slat construction with a corrosion-resistant matte-black finish.
The cover is compatible with the Trax Rail System and allows for the attachment of T-slot accessories.
It has a sleek, low-profile design and heavy-duty seals for maximum weather resistance.
The RetraxPro XR provides complete bed access when fully rolled to the bulkhead and has a simple bolt-on installation. It comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
RetraxPRO MX Tonneau Cover – Price: $1,699
RealTruck makes the RetraxPRO MX Tonneau Cover and fits your Chevy Colorado with a 5’2″ and 6’2″ bed.
It locks into position at any point along the rails and has an aluminum build with a matte finish.
The cover operates on sealed ball-bearing rollers and features a spiral canister design for smooth retraction.
It has a water drainage system and provides total truck bed security with its lock system. The RetraxPRO MX comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
RetraxONE MX Tonneau Cover – Price: $1,229
The RetraxONE MX Tonneau Cover is made by RealTruck and fits your Chevy Colorado with a 6’2″ bed.
It features a one-piece aluminum-reinforced polycarbonate cover with a sleek textured matte-black finish.
The cover has a low-profile appearance and uses sealed ball-bearing rollers for effortless usage.
It has an intuitive one-finger latch operation and offers simple no-drill installation. The RetraxONE MX comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
TruXedo Lo Pro Tonneau Cover – Price: $499
The TruXedo Lo Pro Tonneau Cover is made by RealTruck and fits your Chevy Colorado with a 5’2″ and 6’2″ bed.
It has a signature low-profile design and mounts on the inside of the bed for a clean look.
The cover uses a tension control system to keep the vinyl tight and features a no-drill installation with clamps.
It provides full bed access when rolled up and has a simple latch and roll operation. The TruXedo Lo Pro comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
Extang Trifecta 2.0 Tonneau Cover – Price: $449
RealTruck makes the Extang Trifecta 2.0 Tonneau Cover and fits your Chevy Colorado with a 5’2″ and 6’2″ bed.
It features superior seals, a simple-to-use design, and a high-end appearance.
The cover uses a premium-quality aluminum frame and support bars with a leather-grained vinyl cover.
It offers 2/3 bed access and can be removed for full bed access in seconds. The Extang Trifecta 2.0 comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
Tonnopro Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover – Price: $269
RealTruck makes the Tonnopro Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover and fits your Chevy Colorado with a 5’2″ and 6’2″ bed.
It is constructed of double-sided, marine-grade vinyl and has a 6063-grade powder-coated aluminum frame.
The cover comes completely assembled and can be taken off or put on in less than 5 minutes.
It has a weight rating of 150 lbs., is evenly distributed, and can be driven in the open position with the buckle fastening system.
The Tonnopro Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover comes with a limited lifetime warranty like YITAMOTOR Hard Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover.
Tonnopro Hard Fold Truck Bed Cover – Price: $569
RealTruck makes the Tonnopro Hard Fold Truck Bed Cover and fits your Chevy Colorado with a 6’2″ bed.
It features high-quality vinyl covering 6063 aluminum panels and has a weight rating of 350 lbs. evenly distributed.
The cover comes completely assembled and has an EZ clamp system for simple, tool-free installation.
It can be taken off or put on in less than 5 minutes and has nylon straps to secure it in the open position for driving.
The Tonnopro Hard Fold Truck Bed Cover has a limited lifetime warranty.
Benefits Of Using A Tonneau Cover On Chevy Colorado
Protection from the Elements
A tonneau cover provides a protective barrier for your truck bed, shielding your cargo from various weather elements such as rain, snow, wind, and UV rays.
It helps keep your belongings dry, preventing water damage and rust.
Additionally, the cover acts as a barrier against debris, preventing leaves, dirt, and other particles from accumulating in your truck bed.
Security Enhancement
By adding a tonneau cover to your Chevy Colorado, you can enhance the security of your cargo. It prevents potential theft, as it conceals your belongings from prying eyes.
Some tonneau covers even feature locking mechanisms, adding an extra layer of security to your truck bed.
This is particularly beneficial when you must leave your truck unattended for an extended period or when parking in public areas.
Improved Fuel Efficiency
A properly fitted tonneau cover improves your truck’s aerodynamics by reducing air drag and turbulence in the truck bed.
This aerodynamic-enhancement can improve fuel efficiency by reducing wind resistance while driving.
By reducing drag, a tonneau cover can help optimize your Chevy Colorado’s fuel consumption, saving you money in the long run.
Cargo Organization and Stability
Using a tonneau cover helps to keep your cargo organized and secure while in transit.
It prevents items from shifting or flying out of the truck bed, ensuring they remain in place throughout your journey.
With a tonneau cover, you can safely transport items without worrying about them getting damaged or lost during transportation.
Enhanced Aesthetics and Style
Installing a tonneau cover on your Chevy Colorado enhances your truck’s overall appearance.
It provides a sleek and streamlined look, giving your truck a more polished and finished appearance.
With various styles and finishes available, you can choose a tonneau cover that matches your personal preferences and complements the overall design of your truck.
Versatile Use and Flexibility
Tonneau covers offer versatility in their use. They are available in different types, including roll-up covers, folding covers, retractable covers, and more.
These variations allow you to choose a tonneau cover that suits your needs and usage requirements.
Whether you need full bed access, partial bed access, or quick and easy opening and closing, a tonneau cover option is available for you.
Increased Resale Value
Investing in a tonneau cover can increase the resale value of your Chevy Colorado.
A well-maintained truck with a tonneau cover demonstrates that you have taken care of your vehicle and protected its bed.
When it comes time to sell or trade in your truck, having a tonneau cover can make it more appealing to potential buyers, potentially increasing its market value.
7 Maintenance Tips For Tonneau Covers On Chevy Colorado
1. Regular Cleaning
Regularly clean your tonneau cover to remove dirt, dust, debris, and any other buildup that may accumulate over time.
Use a mild soap or specialized tonneau cover cleaner and a soft brush or sponge to scrub the surface gently.
Rinse thoroughly with water and allow it to dry completely before retracting or closing the cover.
Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that may damage the cover’s finish.
2. Lubrication of Moving Parts
If your tonneau cover has moving parts, such as hinges or rails, it’s important to lubricate them periodically to ensure smooth operation.
Apply a silicone-based lubricant or a lubricant recommended by the manufacturer to the moving parts. This helps prevent rust, corrosion, and friction, ensuring the cover operates seamlessly.
3. Inspect for Damage
Regularly inspect your tonneau cover for any signs of damage, such as tears, cracks, or loose components.
Pay close attention to the seals, hinges, and attachment points. If you notice any issues, address them promptly to prevent further damage and maintain the cover’s functionality.
4. Weather Protection
During periods of inclement weather or when not in use for an extended period, consider using weather protection accessories for your tonneau cover.
These accessories, such as a waterproof cover or a storage bag, provide an extra layer of protection against harsh weather conditions, UV rays, and other environmental factors.
5. Proper Use and Care
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for operating your tonneau cover correctly. Avoid placing excessive weight or sharp objects on the cover, as this can cause damage.
Do so gently when opening or closing the cover and avoid sudden or forceful movements. Proper use and care can significantly extend the lifespan of your tonneau cover.
6. Storage Considerations
If you need to remove the tonneau cover temporarily, store it in a clean and dry area to prevent damage.
Ensure the cover is properly folded or rolled according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Avoid storing heavy objects on top of the cover, as this can cause deformation or other forms of damage.
7. Seasonal Maintenance
Perform seasonal maintenance on your tonneau cover to prepare it for different weather conditions.
For example, before winter, remove any accumulated snow or ice from the cover and ensure all moving parts are properly lubricated.
During the summer, regularly check for signs of fading or damage caused by prolonged exposure to sunlight.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tonneau Covers For Chevy Colorado
Can I Use A Tonneau Cover Meant For A Different Truck Model On My Chevy Colorado?
Using a tonneau cover specifically designed for your Chevy Colorado model is generally recommended.
Tonneau covers are often made to fit specific truck models and may not properly fit or function on a different model.
What Are The Different Types Of Tonneau Covers Available For Chevy Colorado?
Some common types of tonneau cover for Chevy Colorado include roll-up, folding, hinged, and retractable covers.
Each type has its own advantages and features to suit different needs.
Is Tonneau Covers Easy To Install On A Chevy Colorado?
Many tonneau cover for Chevy Colorado are designed for easy installation and can be installed without drilling or extensive modifications.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for a hassle-free installation process.
final words
When choosing a tonneau cover for your Chevy Colorado, accurate measurement of your truck bed is crucial. Consider the length, width, height, and tailgate position.
Tonneau covers offer benefits like weather protection, enhanced security, improved fuel efficiency, organized cargo, and a stylish appearance.
Regular maintenance ensures longevity. Explore different types of covers to find the perfect fit for your needs. Enjoy the added functionality and style a tonneau cover brings to your Chevy Colorado.
