Tonneau covers are a great way to keep your belongings safe and secure while driving. But can tonneau covers be locked? The short answer is yes! There are a variety of ways to lock tonneau covers, depending on the type of cover you have. For example, many soft tonneau covers come with built-in locks that can be activated with a key. Some hard tonneau covers also come with locking mechanisms, while others can be fitted with aftermarket locks. So whether you’re looking to keep your tools safe from thieves or your kids out of the candy stash, there’s a tonneau cover that can be locked to fit your needs.
Types of Tonneau Cover Locks
When it comes to tonneau cover locks, there are a lot of options out there and it can be hard to know which one is right for you. Do you want a simple lock that will just keep the cover closed? Or do you need something more complicated that will also provide extra security? And then there’s the question of convenience – do you want a lock that’s easy to use, or one that’s a little more difficult but will deter thieves? Whatever your needs, there’s a tonneau cover out there with a locking system that’s perfect for you:
Latch Clamp
If you’re looking for a way to add a little extra security to your truck bed, you might want to consider investing in a set of latch clamps. Also known as tail clamps or jaw clamps, these handy devices are found on vinyl folding tonneau covers. They work by clamping down on the sides of the cover, effectively locking it in place. Of course, you’ll need a locking tailgate to really guarantee your truck bed security. But with a set of latch clamps in place, you can rest assured that your belongings will be safe and sound – no matter what kind of mischief-makers are lurking around. To install, simply hand-tighten the clamps until they’re snug against the frame. Then, pull down on the latch to further secure the cover.
Pull-Cable Release
Who knew that such a small, unassuming cable could be so important? The pull-cable release is an essential part of any tonneau cover, and can be found on hard folding covers and aluminum tonneau covers. Without this trusty little cable, you’d be stuck with a cover that you couldn’t open! Pull-cable release is usually located either at the back corner or at the back center of the tonneau cover. To open the cover, you need to give the cable a good yank and it will latches will get released automatically. But that also means, anyone can hace full access to your truck bed. All they have to do is to pull the cables and the latches will then automatically disengaged. The only way to stop someone from accessing the truck bed is by installing a tailgate locking mechanism. This will prevent people from having easy access to pull-cable release.
Spring-Loaded Speed Klamp
The Speed Klamp is a spring-loaded latch clamp with an improved design. Found on folding tonneau cover, they work without causing any hiccup. Easy to install, these Spring-Loaded Speed Klamps are easy to work with. The installation process is fairly simple. All you have to do is to grab the handle and pull it with all your strength toward the truck. However, to ensure 100% safety and security of your gears, you will need to install a locking tailgate mechanism.
Rotary Latch
The rotary latch is a simple locking system that uses a knob to secure the cover in place. This type of lock is common on soft covers, as it can be operated with one hand. Rotary latches are also less likely to break than other types of locks, making them a good choice for those who want a durable option.
In a sense, it is like turning a door knob to open a door. However, instead of activating one knob bolt, you are activating two. Towards the rear on either side of the tonneau cover, there is a single rotary latch.
Trigger Latch
Trigger Latches are usually found on roll up tonneau covers. As the name suggests, this type of lock uses a trigger to secure the cover in place. Trigger latches are easy to operate and can be opened with one hand. Located at the cover ends, these Trigger Latches are designed to simplify the process of opening and closing the Tonneau Cover. To disengage the latches from the frame, you will have to pull the triggers down and it will pull down the cover.
Key Lock
Key locks are the most secure type of Tonneau cover lock, as they can only be opened with a key. Key locks are often used on hard covers, as they provide the best security for your cargo. Key locks are also difficult to break, making them a good choice for those who want a durable option.
Located at the front and rear of the Tonneau cover, key locks require a key to open. This type of lock is not as easy to operate as other types of locks, but it provides the best security for your cargo.
| Tonneau Cover Types | Locking Mechanism | Locking Tailgate Needed? |
| Soft Vinyl Folding | Latch Clamp | Yes |
| Hard Retractable | Key Lock | Yes |
| Soft Vinyl Roll-Up | Trigger Latch | Yes |
| Soft Vinyl Folding | Spring-Loaded | Yes |
| Electric Retractable | Electromagnetic Brakes | Yes |
| Soft Vinyl Folding | Rotary Latch | Yes |
| Hard Folding | Pull-Cable Release | Yes |
