Markus Andrews

If there’s one universal point of pride among truck owners, it’s owning a beautiful set of wheels. Whether you’re buying for looks, practicality, or performance, a fresh set of rims can be a huge upgrade. But since they’re made of a wide variety of materials and designs, and have different dimensions and sizes, the crowded marketplace requires some research if you’re looking to find the perfect wheels.

Factors to Consider when Choosing Truck Wheels
There are thousands and thousands of models of truck wheels on the market, which can occasionally make it difficult to narrow things down. Thankfully for buyers, however, most truck wheels can be accurately evaluated against each other using a standard set of specs that are universal across all manufacturers.
Wheel Size
While every truck has a recommended wheel size, truck drivers often change the wheel size to maximize certain characteristics of their vehicles. While the most common rim size in the past was 15 inches, that size has been more or less passed up by 17-inch options. You can also purchase 16- and 18-inch models, but they’re a bit less common.
Wheel size affects wheel weight, a potential load rating, and brake clearance, so check out your owners manual. If you’re thinking about changing your wheel size, do your research and potentially even talk with your mechanic before making a purchase.
Wheel Material
Material has a lot to do with the structural properties of your truck wheels and also affects the weight of your wheels (and thus, the overall weight of your truck overall). Many wheel companies primarily use aluminum alloys, which are lightweight and attractive, while steel wheels offer increased durability for a lower price, at the cost of added weight and a more plain appearance.
Bolt Pattern
Bolts and the lug nuts that anchor them are how wheels attach to the truck itself. Almost all wheels are either attached with either five or six bolts. They’re set up in a circular pattern to even out the force against the wheel.
You can determine this bolt pattern by two numbers: diameter and amount of bolts. All five-bolt wheels with the same bolt diameter will fit every car with those specs. Keep in mind, though, that if your wheels don’t come with their own lugs, so make sure that you’re purchasing the proper set of lugs for the wheels.
If you don’t already have one, be sure to pick up a lug wrench and set of wheel chocks to make installation a breeze if you plan on doing it yourself.
Rim Width
Rim width is the rim-to-rim thickness of the outside of the wheel. It affects the size of the tire you can place on your wheel as well as, in some cases, the offset of the wheel. If you’re sticking with the same tire and change wheels, different rim widths can significantly affect your tire’s shape, stretching or even deforming the wheels. Do your best to keep the width of your new wheels identical.
Offset
Offset is how far the exterior of the wheel is to the true center of the wheel. A wheel with negative offset will stick out further from the wheel well, and a wheel with positive offset will be closer to the sidewall of the car. You don’t want to change up offset by more than 5 millimeters, or you can run the risk of your wheel rubbing against some part of the trim of the car.
Wheel Weight
Wheel weight is simply but vitally important: advanced alloys, machined options, and aluminum wheels have the lightest weights. Slightly more durable options (steel alloy wheels) are the heaviest, while light wheels improve the acceleration and overall weight of your truck.
No matter what you’re looking for or how much you’re looking to spend, there’s a set of truck wheels out there that can upgrade your truck’s looks, performance, and ride quality. Check out our favorites below.

Top 10 Best Truck Wheels 2021
1. Best Overall Truck Wheels: HELO HE835 Gloss Black Machined Wheel

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Why we like it: These good-looking wheels have a large variety of bolt patterns and a machined construction that makes them both versatile and good-looking.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Wheel Size: 17 inch, 18 inch, 20 inch, and 22 inch
Wheel Material: Aluminum
Bolt Pattern: 5, 6, or 8 holes with 5.5 inch, 165.1 mm, or 170 mm pattern
Offset: 0 or 18 Millimeters Offset
Rim Width: 8 Inches
Wheel Weight: 30 Pounds
With steep competition and hundreds of options on the market, it’s impossible to pick out a single option that’s better than all others, but with this set of wheels, wheel manufacturer HELO gets close.
While they don’t dominate all of the competition in all categories, the characteristic that these wheels have more than any other is versatility: they’re available in four sizes, each with different offsets and widths, multiple bolt patterns, all including a machined face and center cap (although they don’t include lug nuts—for a similar option that has everything you’ll need, check out the premium Mayhem Warrior).
Great looks come via the machined metal and unique spoke pattern. But these wheels aren’t just impressive looking; they perform phenomenally as well. And while we’ll take a great-driving wheel over a great-looking one, we’re still not going to complain about the striking machined black and anodized geometric construction.
That paint requires some care, and HELO shows their attention to detail with a one-year warranty against the paint on the wheels. That’s not part of the wheels’ structural warranty, which lasts a whole lifetime: an impressive stamp of authority on a product that’s bound to take some abuse.

Pros
Versatile sizing options with many offsets, widths, and sizes
Includes machined face and center cap
Unique, attractive spoke pattern
One year paint warranty with lifetime structural warranty

Cons
Wheels don’t include lug nuts

2. Best Looking Truck Wheels: RockTrix RT105 17-Inch Wheels

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Why we like it: These 17-inch wheels are made with looks in mind, using a minimal aluminum-cast design to maximize functionality and minimize weight.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Wheel Size: 17 inch
Wheel Material: Cast Aluminum
Bolt Pattern: 5 x 5 / 127 MM
Offset: -12 MM Offset
Rim Width: 9 Inches
Wheel Weight: 27.5 Lbs
These attractive, modern-looking wheels are aesthetically designed to go with a Jeep Wrangler, although they’ll fit most Jeep models as well as other pickups with similar wheel requirements. With a common 17-inch size and 5 x 5 bolt pattern, they fit many recent-model-year trucks. Watch out for the offset, though, which might affect the brake calipers on some vehicles.
Otherwise, the cast aluminum produces an about-average performance while probably focusing a little bit more on economy and looks than rigidity and other benchmark engineering statistics.
While the price tag at first glance looks incredibly expensive compared with other wheels, keep in mind that you’re not getting just one wheel, you’re getting a full set. This brings the ‘per wheel’ cost to just a hair above $100, a pretty good deal for a set of aluminum cast wheels. Along with the matte finish that goes so well with aluminum wheels, they’re lightweight, coming in at 27.5 pounds per wheel, almost exactly the same as Jeep’s stock

Pros
Per wheel cost is just above $100, an incredibly good deal
Same weight as Jeep’s stock wheels
Cast aluminum construction is lightweight and inexpensive

Cons
Aluminum cast instruction is more for aesthetics and price than performance
The wheels include an offset that makes them incompatible with some manufacturers

3. Best Lightweight Truck Wheels: American Racing Custom Wheels Black Satin

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Why we like it: With a black satin top coat, these ultra-light wheels are nearly as good looking as they are highly-performing.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Wheel Size: 15 inch, 16 inch, and 17 inch
Wheel Material: Aluminum
Bolt Pattern: 5 x 139.7 mm, 6 x 139.7 mm, 5 x 140 mm
Offset: 0 mm
Rim Width: 8 inches
Wheel Weight: 25 lbs
While this lush black satin coat is really, really good looking, these aren’t wheels just meant for showing off. While their construction isn’t backed up by high-tech engineering like the Mayhem Warriors, their stats are actually quite impressive for a relatively inexpensive wheel option: they’re lightweight, weighing in at just over 25 pounds per wheel, they’ve got a 17 inch diameter that should help with conquering off road obstacles, and their aluminum construction maintains rigidity without sacrificing a large weight penalty.
The company has a 60-year history, even participating in racing events like NASCAR to help develop their technological savvy. And the company produces products that will stand up to the test of time: a lifetime structural warranty means that you shouldn’t have issues with durability, and the wheels have a one-year warranty against that beautiful black paint, as the company promises to replace or repair should anything go wrong. All in all, it’s a good looking wheel set with great performance at a reasonable price.

Pros
Lightweight wheelset at just around 25 pounds per wheel
Manufacturer has participated in events like NASCAR
Lifetime structural warranty protects you in case of damage
Beautiful black satin coat has a one-year warranty

Cons
Don’t have much technical backing

4. Best Premium Truck Wheels: Mayhem Warrior Black Wheel with Milled Spokes

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Why we like it: These relatively expensive aluminum wheels back up their price with use of impressive machining tech and back the product up with a lifetime warranty.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Wheel Size: 18 inches
Wheel Material: Aluminum
Bolt Pattern: 8 x 139.7 mm
Offset: 18 mm
Rim Width: 9 Width
Wheel Weight: 28 Lbs
These aluminum 18-inch wheels come in at a slightly premium price point, but compared with some other premium truck wheels that can run up to $1000, they’re actually relatively economical. They’re rated to hold up to 3640 pounds and can run tires up to 40 inches, so they’re large enough for big trucks while still working on more compact pickups.
Keep in mind that unlike many inexpensive aftermarket options, these wheels are TPMS compatible, so you won’t have to deal with a persistent check engine light that won’t ever go away.
Aluminum milled spokes reduce the weight fantastically, but structural rigidity is compromised slightly: when you make something thinner, you reduce its ability to hold up to impacts. That doesn’t mean you should be worried about a catastrophic product failure by any means, but a wheel that flexes (even slightly) is a wheel that will perform worse than a product that’s more rigid, like the steel Pro Comp 97. A lifetime structural warranty will replace wheels with any fundamental issue, no questions asked.

Pros
Economical 18 inch wheelset
Aluminum milled spokes help reuce weight
Compatible with conventional Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Lifetime warranty for any structural issues

Cons
Aluminum spokes yield compromised structural integrity
Wheels aren’t rigid and can flex

5. Best Budget Truck Wheels: Pro Comp Steel Wheels Series 97

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Why we like it: These inexpensive yet durable wheels actually perform fantastically for their low price, although they’re quite heavy.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Wheel Size: 15, 16, and 17 Inches
Wheel Material: Steel
Bolt Pattern: 8 holes x 6.5 inches
Offset: 0 mm
Rim Width: 8 and 9 Inches
Wheel Weight: 32 lbs
At the intersection of budget and performance sit these wheels from company Pro Comp. They perform well for their low price, with great rigidity and strong structural integrity once they’re mounted and balanced (we’ll get into issues with balancing later).
The zero-offset model is available in two widths, 8 and 9 inches, as well as the most common diameters of 15, 16, and 17 inches.
The simple wheels have a gloss finish that in theory should look good, and out of the box, they’re very attractive. In reality, though, the paint job wears out after a couple months of use, the gloss chipping off and losing its luster quickly over time.
There are another issue as well: balancing: the heavy wheels require an extensive (some would say unacceptable) amount of balancing by an auto shop before installation, which requires time and money.
In our opinion, this effort might cancel out the low price of the wheels, but if you’re interested in taking on the project yourself, it could be a tempting option. Otherwise, you should spring for something a bit more expensive like these wheels from HELO, which just work out of the box.

Pros
Zero-offset model is available in a wide variety of widths and sizes
Gloss finish looks good out of the box
Strong structural integrity and good rigidity
Good for an experienced home mechanic

Cons
The wheels come out of balance and require significant effort to get into good shape
Gloss paint wears out quickly

6. Best 15-Inch Wheels: Pro Comp Rock Crawler Steel Wheels

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Why we like it: These 15-inch wheels are lightweight and inexpensive, although they require the separate purchase of center caps and lug nuts.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Wheel Size: 15 inches
Wheel Material: Steel
Bolt Pattern: 5 x 4.75
Offset: Zero-Offset
Rim Width: 9 Inches
Wheel Weight: 26 Lbs
These wheels are quite light for being made of steel, weighing in at only about 26 pounds. That’s thanks to their 15-inch diameter, yielding much less material used. As 15-inch wheels, though, they’re meant for older trucks, as well as compact and subcompact pickups, and potentially other types of cars. Many truck owners actually prefer this wheel size, as they’re slightly more fuel-efficient and can yield a more comfortable ride.
Keep in mind, however, that the center caps and lug nuts are sold separately, driving the effective price of these wheels up. While an initial look will lead you to think these wheels come in well below average, four center caps and a set of lug nuts cost around $100, definitely something to mull over if you’re price sensitive. The Pro Comp 97 also comes in a 17-inch size and is more affordable, though they’re heavier and take quite a bit more work to install.
And while the design is simple at first glance, once mounted, they actually look really good on a truck, not too simple nor too gaudy. They’re a workhorse wheel for workhorse drivers.

Pros
Look great without being over the top
15-inch diameter helps maintain a light weight
Good for older trucks and sub-compact pickups
Simple design looks surprisingly good once mounted
Workhouse wheel for workhorse drivers

Cons
Lug nuts and center caps are sold separately

7. Lightest Truck Wheels: Pro Comp Alloys 1069 Polished Wheels

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Why we like it: These incrediblly light 16-inch wheels are simple, economical, and contain a brilliantly polished chrome coating.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Wheel Size: 16 inches
Wheel Material: Polished aluminum
Bolt Pattern: 8 x 6.5 inches
Offset: 2 mm
Rim Width: 8 inches
Wheel Weight: 20 lbs
If you’re thinking about a middle ground option between small, commuter-friendly 15-inch wheels and a larger-format 17 inch model, the ticket could be these inexpensive polished aluminum rims from manufacturer Pro Comp. While they’re pretty basic, they’ll get the job done, and they’re one of the limited 16 inch diameter wheels on the market. They include a center cap, but you’ll have to pick up a new set of lug nuts, as OEM lug nuts can’t be used with these wheels.
They’re the lightest wheels in our lineup at just a touch over 20 pounds, and although that may mean slightly reduced durability, a lifetime structural warranty covers you if anything should happen.
Our biggest issue with these wheels, frankly, is the design. While the polished chrome finish might prove a clever disguise to the basic construction, we wish Pro Comp put a little more effort in. Looking for a pair of really good looking wheels? Consider checking out the HELO Triple Plated Chrome Wheels.

Pros
Lightest wheels in our lineup thanks to aluminum construction
A simple compromise between 15 inch and 17 inch wheels
Lifetime structural warranty
Included center cap

Cons
Polished finish doesn’t cover up for the fact that they’re not great looking
Structural integrity is compromised by light weight

8. Best Wheels for Toyota Trucks: Toyota TD PRO Matte Black Wheels

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Why we like it: These Toyota wheels are built by the company’s in-house racing tech shop, yielding a product that’s meant to perform on the track, off-road, and on your commute.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Wheel Size: 17 Inches
Wheel Material: Aluminum
Bolt Pattern: 6 holes x 139.7 mm
Offset: 4 mm
Rim Width: 7 inches
Wheel Weight: 28 lbs
These 17-inch wheels work fantastically with all of Toyota’s most common trucks, from 4Runners to Tacomas. The TRD label they’re branded with stands for Toyota Racing Development, Toyota’s advanced performance lab. Just because it’s got ‘racing’ in the title doesn’t mean you’ve got to hit the track to make these wheels worth it: they’re fine for daily drivers, but optimized for off road performance.
Looks are pretty unimpressive in our opinion, but you’re probably not buying a Toyota for looks: you’re buying it for reliability and longevity. These wheels surely stand up to the test of time there. They count on Toyota warranty and customer support, which by itself is well worth a slight price premium.
The four millimeter offset isn’t very common for trucks, nor is the seven inch rim width, but they’re both standard for Toyota trucks, so they’ll work with pretty much any Toyota model that’s come out within the last 10 years. The 28 pound weight is about typical for the type of wheel and material.
Watch out, however, if you’ve got a non-Toyota truck or you’ve already modified or lifted your Toyota: the tolerances are quite tight, and you might have a tricky time if you haven’t triple-checked measurements.

Pros
Fit all of Toyota’s most popular trucks
Optimized for off road performance by Toyota’s performance lab
Rely on Toyota’s warranty and customer support
Reliable and long-lasting

Cons
May not fit modified, non-Toyota, or lifted trucks
Slight price premium over similar shoes
Looks aren’t too impressive

9. Best 20 Inch Wheels: OE Wheels Hollander

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Why we like it: These GM-specific 20-inch wheels, although expensive, are loaded up with warranties and maintain a light weight even with their large format.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Wheel Size: 20 inches
Wheel Material: Aluminum
Bolt Pattern: 6 lugs
Offset: 31 mm
Rim Width: 8.5 inches
Wheel Weight: 31 lbs
These wheels were created as a replacement for large GMC and Chevrolet vehicles like the Silverado, Tahoe, Sierra, Yukon, and Escalade, but will fit other vehicles that have wheels with similar or identical specifications. Keep in mind that since these are specifically made for specific GM models, if you’ve got a modified truck (specifically suspension or braking), you might have trouble fitting these wheels. Double check before buying these 20-inch monsters.
With wheels this big, you’re practically required to build them out of cast aluminum if you don’t want to end up with something that weighs a ridiculous amount, although even still they’re heavy-ish at 31 pounds.
While the wallet hit is pretty extreme, keep in mind that you’re also paying for a one-year aesthetic warranty and a lifetime structural guarantee. That’s worth quite a bit against models like Pro Comp Rock Crawler Steel Wheels with lesser or nonexistent warranties.

Pros
Created specifically to fit GMC models
Cast aluminum construction
Great warranty for aesthetics
Structural lifetime guarantee

Cons
Relatively heavy for aluminum at 31 pounds
Might not fit cars with lifts or brake modifications

10. Best Chrome Truck Wheels: Helo Triple Plated Chrome Wheel

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Why we like it: These chrome-plated wheels look great on a dropped or lifted truck with a shiny, warrantied top coat.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Wheel Size: 17 inches
Wheel Material: Alloy
Bolt Pattern: 8 x 180 mm
Offset: 0 mm
Rim Width: 9 inches
Wheel Weight: 36 lbs
Look, we’ll be straight with you: these aren’t off-roading wheels, nor are they even really meant to be great performing wheels. If you’re throwing them on your pickup truck, they’re really only meant for one thing: looking really, really cool. Chromed-out rims are particularly popular with the low riding (or lifted, for that matter) crowds, with shine taking priority over form factor. And shine these wheels do, with a triple chrome-plated finish topped off by a triple chrome-plated center cap.
Those aesthetics are even covered by the warranty, as the chrome coating has a one-year finish warranty against any aesthetic damage that happens; it comes with an impressive lifetime structural guarantee as well.
At 36 pounds a pop, we’re not surprised that these alloy rims can take a beating. For costing over $200, we wouldn’t mind if these wheels came with some lug nuts, but who are we to complain—you’re paying for aesthetics, here. If you don’t care about looks, choose something simpler and more affordable like the HELO HE835.

Pros
Chromed out rims look great on most trucks
Triple chrome-plated finish and center cap
One year finish warranty for aesthetics
Lifetime structural guarantee

Cons
Relatively expensive wheels
High weight of 36 pounds per wheel
No lug nuts included with purchase

Guide to Buying the Best Truck Wheels for 2021
Truck owners are quite selective about what they’re looking for in a set of wheels: between looks, performance, weight, tire compatibility, and warranty considerations, there’s a lot that goes into the selection process.
Below we’ll outline some of the details related to your purchase and also outline some points that you might not have considered in your preliminary product research. A little reading and investigation will help you loads in the long term.
How Wheels Affect Your Truck’s Mechanics
You can’t slap a pair of wheels on and not expect the change to affect your truck’s mechanics and performance, especially if you’re changing the size of the wheel. Make sure you are paying attention to your manufacturer’s guidelines and be aware of the potential downsides of a wheel change.
Suspension Considerations
Suspension systems are designed around a specific wheel size, sometimes even a specific wheel model, and placing a different wheel can change how your suspension behaves and performs. If your truck is lifted or you’re planning to lift your truck as you change your wheels, that can affect your suspension system as well.
Large wheels typically mean a stretched out tire, which can affect the comfort and noise level inside your truck. It can also make wheels and tires more susceptible to damage. If you replace your tires, this solves some of the problems, but it can change the readings from your speedometer and tire-pressure sensor. While it’s done frequently enough so that it usually doesn’t cause issues, be aware that it could require some troubleshooting to tune up.
Drivetrain Considerations
There’s no two ways about it: increasing wheel size changes your effective gear ratio. When you purchase a larger rim, the effective diameter of your wheel grows (it’s the same way if you simply purchase a larger tire), and this means acceleration takes more power.
Depending on how your transmission is set up and how low your lowest gear is, this can considerably affect your drivetrain system. This change also can affect fuel economy. The secret is to make changes incrementally, and not to rock the boat too much. Our top overall pick is available in a range of large sizes, making it a great option to find the perfect size.
If you’re dead set on moving to a bigger wheel, use this tire size calculator alongside your owner’s manual to make sure your change won’t drastically alter your truck’s performance.
The Most Common Wheel Sizes
Different trucks have different recommended wheel sizes, but there’s a bit of room within a couple of inches on both sides. While 15 inch wheels have been incredibly popular in the past, now, more than ever, 17 inch wheels and less common 16 inch and 18 inch models have come more to the forefront, although they’re still relatively uncommon.
15 inches
15 inch wheels used to be the standard truck wheel size, although now they’re gradually being phased out of use with trucks as 17 inch models gain market share and popularity. Many drivers still prefer 15 inches for performance, although 17 inch wheels have their use case as well.
A 15 inch wheel is proven to deliver a more comfortable ride, and some data shows that gas mileage can be better on smaller wheels when other variables are controlled. Be aware, though, that most of the latest research and development technology goes towards 17 inch tires, so you might not get the latest and greatest truck tech when shopping for new rubber.
Not all wheels come in 15-inch sizes, but those who need these small wheels should check out the American Racing Custom Wheels Black Satin.
17 inches
There’s one case where we’ll always recommend 17-inch wheels: offroading. There are some undeniable truths when offroading, disregarding personal opinion. A bigger wheel can roll over bigger objects as well as add some marginal benefits on low-friction surfaces like sand and mud.
Other Sizes
While 15 inch wheels and 17 inch wheels are easily the most popular wheels on the market, there are plenty of other wheels produced in size of anywhere from 14 to 22 inches for trucks.
You can check this guide on rim size from auto magazine Car and Driver to learn a bit more about the subject, but our recommendation is to stick with the same size rims that came on your car in the first place.
Selecting a Tire for Your Truck Wheels
Selecting a tire for your truck wheels is one of the most contentious subjects for anyone who’s serious about their truck. You’d think picking out a truck wheel would have more to do with purpose, function, and price than personal opinion, but that’s not necessarily the case.
Off Road Tires
Among the ‘serious trucking’ crowd, there’s only one type of tires: off road tires. Not only are they good for the dirt, grass, mud, gravel, and grass of off road trails and rock gardens, they also perform better than fuel-efficient road tires in the snow and the rain. Plus, they look the best of all other tires, with aggressive widths and tread patterns. They’re also good for towing and help with weight capacity. Unfortunately, they decrease fuel efficiency horribly, they’re expensive, and their soft rubber compounds wear out quickly.
Road Tires
Road tires and all season tires are designed for use on asphalt in both dry and wet conditions. While they’re probably the best option for most truck drivers, pickup owners generally prefer something a bit more aggressive looking. We’ve got no such prejudices and therefore recommend road tires unless you’re driving more off road than on.
Winter Tires
Winter tires are great for their designed use case (snow) and better than alternatives in adverse cold-weather conditions (ice), but they’re nowhere near to performing as well as a road tire in optimal conditions. Most trucks are already four-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive, so a pickup will already be your first choice in wintery conditions. And the price of winter tires has gone down in recent years, so picking up a set can definitely be worth a look.
Wheel Balancing
All new aftermarket wheels will have something in common: when purchased, they come out of balance. The construction process simply isn’t perfect, and when you mount up a tire, the wheel will be significantly out of alignment. At higher speeds, this can be dangerous as wheels wobble back and forth, affecting not only comfort, but stability.
We strongly recommend that you head to your local auto shop to get your wheels balanced, but if you’ve got experience, you can take a crack at it yourself. The most important thing is that at least someone takes a look at your wheels before installation: if you just throw your wheels on without a second thought, you could end up in a wobbly or even dangerous situation.
Truck Wheel FAQ
What is the Best Truck Wheel Size?
There’s no best wheel size, only a manufacturer-suggested size and optimal sizes for different tasks. Larger wheels are typically better for larger trucks and can improve offroad performance as well, but reduce fuel efficiency and cause stress on tires.
Most people don’t ‘downsize’ to smaller truck wheels, but if you choose to stick with the same size, enjoy better highway performance but decreased offroad traction and towing capacity.
Can I Put Wider Tires on Truck Rims?
This is really two questions in one, the first one addressing the differences between truck and car rims, and the second one addressing the efficacy of putting a wider-than-standard tire on a truck rim.
We’ll answer the first question first: are truck rims better at holding a non-standard tire than a car rim? Generally, yes. A larger lip means that the tolerances are a bit higher, and you’re less likely to encounter problems when mounting a different tire/rim combo.
Efficacy is a different story: a stretched tire goes on a bigger wheel, which typically means the driver is targeting better offroad or towing performance. In this case, more stress can mean a higher probability of a flat.
If you’re going to be sizing up for better high-stress performance, grab a new pair of tires to make sure you won’t flat in a dangerous situation.
Should I Use a Truck Tire or a Car Tire?
When you drive a consumer pickup truck, you’re faced with a decision: do you use a burly car tire, that’ll typically be quicker, more economical, and more fuel-efficient? Or should you use a burlier light truck tire (labeled LT) for more impressive durability, better off road traction, and a tougher-looking stance?
It’s up to you, and plenty has to do with personal preferences and aesthetics, but we’ll give you a rough idea: if your truck has a ¾ to ½-ton bed capacity, do yourself a favor and pick up a light-truck tire.
If you’re planning on doing some towing, a light truck tire is a good idea as well. Just heading around town and using your bed only for lightweight hauls? A standard car tire should be more than sufficient.
Take the Open Road
Maybe you’ve damaged a wheel and you’re using it as an opportunity to upgrade your whole set, or perhaps you’re thinking about buying a differently-sized wheel set to pump up performance off-road or improve towing ability.
No matter the reason for your purchase, the advent of online wheel sales has created tremendous benefits for consumers, with options for all types and classes of pickup drivers. Do your research, make sure you’ve got your specs right, and you’ll be good to go to drive off into the sunset. More

Pickup trucks have remarkable cargo capacity but, unlike cars, they don’t have any protection for your load, leaving them exposed to the elements. While the fact that a pickup bed is open means you can have a lot of cargo, putting some type of cover over the bed can protect and secure whatever you’re hauling.
While this protection can be accomplished with a soft cover, a rolling tonneau cover, a truck topper, or even a tarp, one of the most effective, simple, and affordable options is a hard tonneau cover. Unlike toppers, they don’t require tools and they’re easy to remove, although they can be placed permanently if you like. All in all, they’re one of our favorite upgrades for pickup trucks.

Choosing a Hard Folding Tonneau Cover
While tonneau covers, especially hard-top tonneau covers can be expensive, they’re worth it for many for the security and the weather protection they provide. What a tonneau cover really does is protect the bed of your pickup truck, converting it into a hybrid between a traditional automobile trunk and a standard pickup bed. But they’re not all built equally, so there are some factors you’ll need to keep in mind.
Vehicle Compatibility
Unfortunately, most tonneau covers are only compatible with a specific truck model or series of models from a specific manufacturer. While it is inconvenient that you can’t swap a tonneau cover from one truck to another, it does mean that most covers fit nearly perfectly, creating a weatherproof seal around the bed and adding an additional layer of security to your truck.
Ease of Use
Many tonneau covers don’t require any tools for installation, making them convenient for owners. They accomplish this by being designed for only a single, specific model.
Be aware of bed length as well, as manufacturers make different covers that are designed to work with short beds or standard beds, never both.
Security
One of the main purposes of a tonneau cover is to keep your cargo secure. While pickups can hold a mountain of whatever you’re hauling, they’re not closed by design, so you can’t keep them under lock and key as you could with a car or SUV. A tonneau cover can be closed and locked down, covering the cargo area and adding a layer of security to whatever’s in your truck bed.
We also consider weather resistance a part of security: if you’re hauling timber, or groceries for that matter, and they arrive wet even when you’re using a tonneau cover, is it even worth it to have one on your truck? In our opinion, probably not.
Especially with hard tonneau covers (as opposed to soft ones), security and weather-resistance is a huge part of a purchase. A cover that doesn’t protect your cargo isn’t even worth it.
With all of that in mind, let’s get to our picks for the best hard folding tonneau covers on the market today.

Top 10 Best Folding Tonneau Covers 2021
1. Best Overall Cover: Tonno Pro Hard Fold Bed Tonneau Cover

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Why we like it: This hard bed cover is a bit heavier-duty than average thanks to its marine vinyl, aircraft-grade aluminum frame, and an impressive tailgate locking system.
Editor’s Rating:

Vehicle Compatibility: GMC Sierra and Chevrolet Silverado
This hard tonneau cover is meant for GM trucks from model years 2014 to 2018, with this particular version fitting standard and extended cab trucks with a standard bed. From the top, it looks like a single sheet of nylon, creating a sleek look over the back of your truck. On the other side, though, it’s a completely different story, hiding three framed panels that contribute to the product’s high weight of about 70 pounds.
That weight comes with a benefit, thankfully: the cover can hold an evenly distributed load of about 350 pounds, no small feat. But, if you’re looking for a lighter cover, the Xcover Low Profile Hard Folding Truck Bed Tonneau Cover fits the same vehicles and is much easier to maneuver, but it’s also a bit flimsier.
It also comes with an easy to use hybrid security-clamping system. Thanks to a clever design, if the tailgate is locked, the tonneau cover is locked as well. It’s also easy to set up, as it comes pre-assembled and doesn’t require tools.
The cover has got three length options, one for crew cab models, one for standard beds, and one for extended bed versions. The company also produces some soft covers and a roll-up version, but their most critically acclaimed version is by far this one.
It’s a bit pricey compared to soft tonneau covers at around $500, but compared with other high quality, secure products, it’s competitively priced.

Pros
Comes with a hybrid security-clamping system
Fits both standard and extended cab trucks
Three framed panels can hold up to 350 pounds
Fits GM trucks from 2014 to 2018
If the tailgate is locked, the tonneau cover automatically locks as well

Cons
High price compared to soft tonneau covers
The comparatively high weight of about 70 pounds

2. Best Budget Cover: DNA Monitoring TTC Hard Truck Bed Top Tonneau Cover

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Why we like it: At a low price and with a considerable weight capacity, this cover isn’t just impressive in terms of structure, but has a series of great features as well.
Editor’s Rating:

Vehicle Compatibility: Ram 1500 – 3500 / 6.5 foot bed.
While folding tonneau covers are incredibly effective for protection, fuel efficiency, and more, there are also some drawbacks. Along with limiting cargo space, a tonneau cover also restricts your freedom with your cargo space, especially for rigid cover that can’t really be stored or set aside easily.
Although it is incredibly structurally sound and rigid, this cover doesn’t break down at all, making it hard to store. If you’re carrying it, it’ll have to go on or in the bed of your truck, unlike the Gator ETX Soft Tri-Fold Truck Bed Tonneau Cover.
This specific model fits Ram trucks, specifically Ram 1500s, 2500s, and 3500s. Thankfully, they also make models that can cover Chevrolet Sierras and Silverados, along with models that are compatible with the hyper-popular Ford F150 series. (There are a couple more niche models available as well.) We love the look across the product range, with matte paneling and black powder-coated aluminum structure. Tension is adjustable across the cover so that a perfect fit is always easy to achieve.

Pros
Good for protection and fuel efficiency
Structurally sound and rigid
Black powder-coated frame and matte black structure
Has models in the series compatible with Ford F150s, Chevrolets, and more

Cons
Restricts your cargo space
Doesn’t break down, making it hard to store
Will have to be transported in the bed of your truck

3. Best Waterproof Cover: Xcover Hard Folding Truck Bed Cover

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Why we like it: This low-profile tonneau cover seals flush against the bed rails, locks automatically, and is completely waterproof.
Editor’s Rating:

Vehicle Compatibility: Ford F150 / 5.6 foot bed
While this Xcover bed cover isn’t as expensive as the highest-end, thousand-dollar models like the Bak BakFlip MX4, at over $500, it still comes in at a slightly premium price point. And it backs up that price with a host of features that less expensive covers don’t offer. It’s weatherproof and durable, designed to be UV-resistant and protect cargo from all precipitation. A high-quality seal even prevents dust and dirt from entering.
While an automatically locking latch makes sure your cargo always stays locked up, it’s frankly a bit inconvenient when you close your tailgate without realizing it as there’s no way to unlock it via the tonneau cover itself. That does improve security, though, and might be a plus if you’re a bit forgetful. And that ‘low-profile’ designation isn’t just for show: this tonneau cover lies completely flat against the rails of the bed, making it sleek and improving the seal.

Pros
Not as expensive as the highest-end models
Weatherproof and durable with UV-resistant coating
Protects cargo from all types of precipitation
Tonneau cover lies completely flat, yielding a good seal

Cons
Tonneau cover inconveniently automatically locks up

4. Best Premium Cover: Bak BakFlip MX4 Hard Folding Truck Bed Tonneau Cover

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Why we like it: This folding cover is incredibly pricey, but it’s impermeable by weather and thieves alike thanks to aircraft-grade paneling.
Editor’s Rating:

Vehicle Compatibility: 2015 – 2020 Ford F150 Short Bed
Let’s get one thing out of the way first: this pickup bed cover costs about twice as much as versions from other competitors. So how does this F150 short bed cover justify its high price?
First of all, it’s both durable and weight resistant: while some other tonneau covers can barely hold a two-by-four without caving in, this cover, equipped with aircraft-grade aluminum panels can hold a good couple hundred pounds without so much as a squeak.
It’s still not as structurally rigid as a body panel, especially considering that it attaches to the bed with no drilling, creating a durable seal that’s both impermeable and impermanent. That means it keeps out rain, sun, snow, extreme weather, and thieves.
At a total weight of 71 pounds, it won’t affect the handling or performance of your vehicle. It can be closed with the tailgate up or down, meaning you can carry oversized lumber and still keep it covered. If you’re hauling something a bit taller, the cover can be folded against the back of the cab, obstructing your rear view a bit but giving you full access to your bed (rolling tonneau covers can’t do this).
It’s held upright with durable prop rods that don’t give out over rough terrain. All of these great features, however, reflect back on the insane price point, which is worth it for some, but completely out of reach for others. If you’re not concerned with getting the best of the best, the DNA Monitoring TTC Hard Truck Bed Top Tonneau Cover functions nearly as well for a much lower price.

Pros
Can hold several hundred pounds on top without complaint
Total weight of 71 pounds is light for a tri-fold cover
Keeps out rain, sun, snow, extreme weather, and thieves
Can be folded up against the cab to give access to your bed
Held in place by durable prop rods

Cons
Price is about five times as much as competitors
Cover can marginally obstruct your view

5. Best American-Made Cover: Rough Country Low Profile Hard Tri-Fold Folding Tonneau Cover

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Why we like it: This American-made tonneau cover sits at a mid-range price point; it’s also easy to use, secure, and has a lifetime guarantee.
Editor’s Rating:

Vehicle Compatibility: Ford F150 2015-2020 / 5.5 foot bed
Not the most expensive tonneau cover and certainly not the cheapest, this model from truck outfitter Rough Country is durable, strong, and easy to use and install. Each of the three panels on this tri-fold cover is constructed with aircraft-grade aluminum, although the textured black design on the panels makes them appear more like carbon fiber than anything else.
It’s really easy to use compared to other covers that require some serious elbow grease to get moving. With a series of sturdy latches, an articulated design, and even a system for partial opening, it’s a piece of cake to use.
Security is great as well, as the aluminum panels are hard to bust through and the cover secures with a We’re partial to American-made products, and this cover is certified made-in-the-USA. But that’s not the only guarantee Rough Country provides, as they also include a lifetime warranty with their product: not too shabby!
That provides some significant value over other covers that aren’t guaranteed and will last around two to three years. Just watch out for installation, as it can be a bit tricky to line up properly. If you don’t want to fuss with tricky setup, you might want to consider the Gator ETX Soft Tri-Fold Truck Bed Tonneau Cover instead.

Pros
Durable cover is made with aircraft aluminum
Textured black design looks great with a carbon fiber-like coating
Has a system for partial opening
Lifetime warranty

Cons
Installation can be a little tricky

6. Easiest Cover to Use: Gator ETX Soft Tri-Fold Truck Bed Tonneau Cover

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Why we like it: This cover from Gator is a bit less sturdy than a hard tonneau cover, but less pricey and easier to install as well.
Editor’s Rating:

Vehicle Compatibility: Ford F150 2015 – 2020 / 5’7 bed
At 24 pounds, it’s much lighter than other hard-shell products like the Bak BakFlip MX4, but it’s not as structurally rigid either.
While the advanced alloy materials in heavier folding tonneau covers have no problem holding weights of around 150 pounds, you probably shouldn’t set anything on this tonneau cover over 50 pounds. It’s still more rigid than soft covers, but doesn’t have their same flexibility regarding storage.
Installation is simple as well: manufacturer Gator claims that it can be installed in about 10 minutes, quick enough that you can take it off and put it back on at your convenience, similar to a soft-top tonneau cover. It accomplishes this by clamping onto the existing rails without the use of any tools.
While it’s convenient that you can do everything by hand, the hardware is a bit cheap feeling, and you should be careful about stripping the aluminum fittings or breaking plastic pieces. If you want durability and protection over ease of use, you’d probably be better served by the Tonno Pro Hard Fold Bed Tonneau Cover.

Pros
Light weight of 24 pounds
Installation is impermanent and simple
Can be stowed easily in your truck cab or pickup bed
Installation timeline of just about 10 minutes

Cons
Aluminum and plastic fittings are cheap feeling and are easy to break
Won’t support weights of over 150 pounds

7. Best Long Bed Cover: Lund Hard Tri-Fold Hard Folding Truck Bed Tonneau Cover

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Why we like it: This rigid truck cover solves the problem of creating a structurally strong bed cover for a long truck bed
Editor’s Rating:

Vehicle Compatibility: Ford F150 2004-2008 / 8-foot bed
Creating a tonneau cover for a long-bed pickup is an interesting manufacturing challenge, as the structural rigidity decreases with the weight of added material and the lack of support. This tri-fold cover solves the issue with aluminum panels coated with marine grade vinyl, all supported by a rigid but folding internal structure.
That all yields a product that can withstand 350 pounds of weight across the cover, no small feat: on top of that, it is incredibly convenient compared to soft tonneau covers that won’t support more than 15-20 pounds without caving in.
The manufacturers promise a five minute install time; back up their weather seal with a quality promise, and have a simple locking system that gets you on the road quickly. These same features also extend to their model for a 6’7 bed as well as their short-bed 5-foot version. That’s a great thing in our book, as we’ll always take some additional security and rigidity for our covers.
Our only complaint is that the manufacturer doesn’t cut MSRP on their standard-length models, which feels a little unfair—if you don’t have a long-bed pickup, there’s really no reason not to select a more affordable and equally good option.

Pros
Rigid tonneau cover for a longer bed pickup truck
Five minute install time
Weather sealing tech comes with a quality assurance from the manufacturer
Cover can support up to 350 pounds of evenly distributed weight
Simple locking system for sealing up your cargo

Cons
Five-foot version isn’t any cheaper than long-bed varieties

8. Most Durable Cover: Proven Ground EZ Hard Fold Tonneau Cover

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Why we like it: This tri-fold cover with an aircraft-grade aluminum frame will be good to go for whatever you throw at it.
Editor’s Rating:

Vehicle Compatibility: Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and 2000, 2019-2020
With a tri-fold panel design, an aircraft-grade aluminum frame, and a marine-grade vinyl to cover everything up, this cover from Proven Ground holds up fantastically well to years of hard use and hard weather. It’s a tri-fold design, proven to be effective when designing tonneau covers, constructed with hard panels coated with black epoxy for rigidity and UV protection.
It does fall prey to a flaw of many modern trucks, a lack of compatibility. It’s only compatible with two specific models of Chevrolet trucks, and those two only in two specific model years. It’s not the end of the world, as most people aren’t frequently buying and selling trucks, but if you’re buying covers for fleet vehicles, or you’re planning on an upgrade, consider the fact that it won’t be compatible with anything made after 2021.
Thankfully, though, with a hard-panel tri-fold design and that aircraft-grade aluminum we touched on, it should be good to take many years of whatever you can throw at it.

Pros
Aircraft-grade aluminum frame for structure
Uses a black epoxy coating for rigidity and UV protection
Marine-grade nylon vinyl for cover
Holds up well to hard use and weather

Cons
Not compatible with truck models after 2021

9. Xcover Low Profile Hard Folding Truck Bed Tonneau Cover

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Why we like it: This mid-range tri-fold cover has silicon seals to keep out the weather, although it’s still easy to remove and reinstall.
Editor’s Rating:

Vehicle Compatibility: 2007 – 2013 GMC Sierra and Chevrolet Silverado
This user-friendly, mid-range tri-fold cover has a slick look and a weatherproof seal. Once clamped on, the silicon seals align perfectly with the rails of the bed to keep weather out. Unlike with some tonneau covers that can be pretty tricky to uninstall thanks to tight and nearly-permanent attachment systems, this cover is designed to be secure but simultaneously easy to use.
While it’s semi-permanently attached with the tool-less installation method, it’s got a one-finger guarantee: once you’ve unlocked it, the whole thing can be opened up with a single digit. But that semi-permanent installation feels a bit more flimsy than with other models, as the hardware isn’t as impressive as other models and doesn’t have the rubber covers to protect your truck bed rails from scratches and minor aesthetic damage.
But more than anything, we value the phenomenal warranty that this hard tri-fold cover includes. It’s got five years of coverage against all of the materials and workmanship. While that’s not the no-questions-asked, lifetime warranty that the Rough Country Tonneau Cover has, it will cover you in pretty much all cases of damage or wear.

Pros
Slick look with a weatherproof seal
Secure but easy to attach with a tool-less installation method
Five years of warranty coverage against materials and workmanship
One-finger guarantee promises easy operation

Cons
Hardware is cheap feeling and may not last long
Clamps and bolts don’t have rubber covers to protect from wear and tear

10. Tyger Auto T3 Soft Tri-Fold Truck Tonneau Cover

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Why we like it: While it’s technically a soft tonneau cover, the inclusion of a dual-coated marine-grade vinyl makes this phenomenal for those looking for a bit more flexibility.
Editor’s Rating:

Vehicle Compatibility: 1988-2007 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra
With no metal paneling placed throughout the cover itself, this is technically a soft tonneau cover, although a metal aircraft-aluminum frame paired with dual-coated marine-grade vinyl is good enough for us to give it a chance on our list.
While that makes it slightly less secure (and less heavy) than options with metal paneling, it’s still equally structurally rigid when weight is placed on top, although it is more susceptible to punctures. If you plan on doing that regularly, try a harder cover like the DNA Monitoring TTC Hard Truck Bed Top Tonneau Cover.
It attaches to the bed with stainless steel clamps that are corrosion resistant: this means a long lifetime and no drilling (or tools at all) required for installation. There’s one exception for that tool-less install, however: if you’ve got a bed liner that extends over the rail of your pickup bed, you’ll have to cut some holes to properly fit the tonneau cover. Any other bedliner, though, and you’ll be good to go.
Like most tonneau covers, it comes in one color: black, which is a plus in our book. While the company that produces this cover has a limited lifetime warranty to back up their product, make sure you’re properly measuring your product before a purchase: you’ll have to pay for oversized shipping if you end up purchasing the wrong product for your truck.

Pros
Equally structurally rigid as metal truck covers
Uses lightweight dual-coated marine-grade vinyl
Stainless steel clamps don’t require drilling and are corrosion resistant
No tools needed for installation

Cons
No returns if you pick the wrong size
No metal paneling for security and protection
Vinyl cover is more susceptible to punctures

Buying the Best Hard Folding Tonneau Covers
Protecting your pickup bed has tremendous benefits, and not just for your cargo. A tonneau cover doesn’t just protect your load, but also protects the pickup bed itself and increases fuel efficiency. Finally, it increases the value of your truck and presents a positive signal to potential buyers that it’s a vehicle that has been taken care of.
Tonneau Cover, Truck Topper, or Something Else Entirely?
As there are tons of many types of truck owners, all with different needs, there are also many tools used to cover up a truck bed: are you just looking for weather protection, do you need security, or are you primarily thinking about aerodynamics and aesthetics: keep in mind that there’s no wrong answer, just a solution for your specific needs.
We’ll help you out by describing four drivers, each with a different need and ideal solution.
Driver 1: Hard Tonneau Cover: A truck owner with a hard tonneau cover is an urban or suburban driver that sometimes uses his pickup for big hauls, but mostly uses it for commuting and occasional smaller trips.
A hard tonneau cover is one of the most popular truck cover options, probably thanks to the fact that it’s a middle ground option. It’s impermanent; you can remove it in just a few minutes, but it’s secure and can be securely locked.
Driver 2: Soft Tonneau Cover: A truck with a soft tonneau cover has broad use cases. Some drivers use them permanently, others tuck them away in the cab and pull one out whenever necessary. They’re waterproof and some can even lock up, but they can be cut open without too much trouble.
Driver 3: Truck Topper: Truck toppers are rigid, semi-permanent, and secure with a lock. You’ll have a tough time purchasing one online, though, as they’re big and don’t fold down. While they can store more cargo than a pickup bed with a tonneau cover, for example, you’ll still have a tough time fitting the biggest cargo in. Truck toppers are a bit heavy but great for fuel-efficiency. Like tonneau covers, they can range in price broadly.
Driver 4: Tarp: Our fourth driver stores a tarp in his truck with some tie-downs or bungee cord, only bringing it out when hauling cargo in inclement weather. A tarp won’t produce a tight seal, nor does it protect your cargo, but it should be fine to keep most of the water of your lumber or construction materials. It won’t help with fuel efficiency.
If none of these options sounds appealing to you, well, you should probably think about an SUV!
A Primer on Tonneau Cover Materials
Tonneau covers, as with many car-related products, love to use technical materials to distinguish themselves from other manufacturers. Below, we give you a breakdown of the most popular materials used in tonneau covers and break down the facts from the marketing hype.
Aircraft-Grade Aluminum: Tonneau covers like the Bak BakFlip MX4 Hard Folding Truck Bed Tonneau Cover love to advertise that they have frames made of aircraft-grade aluminum. It sounds impressive because it is: it’s both stronger, lighter, and more impact resistant than standard aluminum.
Standard Vinyl: Standard vinyl is a type of plastic that can be made into leather-like plastic sheets. The world’s third most popular plastic, it’s impermeable by water, durable, and inexpensive, which makes it popular for inexpensive tonneau covers.
Marine-Grade Vinyl: Marine-grade vinyl is a step up from standard vinyl, coated with a compound that protects it from sunlight, moisture, and abrasion. It’s UV ray, bacteria, and mildew resistant. It’s preferable for tonneau covers, but a bit more expensive, although Lund Hard Tri-Fold Hard Folding Truck Bed Tonneau Cover covers made of marine-grade vinyl are not any more puncture resistant or structurally sound than typical vinyl.
Tips for Using a Tonneau Cover
As with any truck or car aftermarket part, proper use and installation affect utility in a big way. A poorly installed or constructed cover won’t protect your cover from much. Proper product selection, use, and installation help make sure you maximize the value of whatever product you purchase.
Installing a Tonneau Cover
Installing a tonneau cover is really typically quite easy compared to other car modifications and repairs: some covers don’t even require tools for installation. Follow the steps below to install your cover with minimal trouble and for a good fit, although the process can vary a little bit depending on what type of tonneau cover you purchase.
Fit Your Cover
Tonneau covers require precision, which means you’re out of luck in the unfortunate case you’ve purchased the wrong product. This doesn’t just mean to buy a tonneau cover based on your truck model: take into account the dimensions of the bed (short bed, long bed, or standard bed) and even the model year of your car. Most covers are simply not compatible.
Install Rails
Tonneau cover rails are the metal components that the cover actually slides into. They’re clamped onto the edges of the bed and stay installed even when you take off the cover itself to haul bigger cargo.
Install Rubber Seals
The rubber seals attach to the rail and create a waterproof layer between the metal rails and the cover itself. Make sure these seals are installed flush and properly positioned if you don’t want to end up with wet cargo.
Install Cover
It’s finally time to install the cover itself. Depending on if you have a folding or rolling cover, slide the product into the rails so that it is flush with both the attachment mechanism and the rubber seals.
Install Finishes and Fittings
Your work isn’t over yet: you’ve got to make sure your cover stays in place. Screw in the anchor screws (preferably with a torque wrench) to lock things down, then attach trim pieces and seals. After that, you’re good to go!
Using a Tonneau Cover to Maximize Aerodynamics
A tonneau cover doesn’t just cover up the cargo in your pickup bed—it encloses the bed itself, helping to eliminate the aerodynamic effect that happens as turbulent air gets stuck in the bed. A cover accomplishes this by smoothing the airflow that rolls over the back of the truck, pushing off the back.
All in all, a tonneau cover improves aerodynamics by approximately 10% to 15%, which over time can save you thousands of dollars: less expensive tonneau covers can probably pay for themselves with gas savings alone in under a year.
Locking Up Your Tonneau Cover
While many soft tonneau covers don’t have the option to be locked, many hardtop versions lock with an internal lock or have a keyed/combination U-lock. This lock is typically placed close to the liftgate of the truck, and although it’s more secure than a soft cover or an option without a lock, it’s definitely not as secure as your truck cabin. Still, out of sight means out of mind, and that goes a long way with opportunistic thieves.
Tonneau Cover Maintenance
First of all, hard tonneau covers last longer than soft ones, so you should get somewhere between three and five years of use out of your cover, depending on how hard you are on your cover.
The cover itself typically isn’t what fails first, unless you get in the bad habit of placing heavy objects on top of it. It’s the plastic trim that decays first, and you can’t do much about that aside from using a plastic/rubber conditioner like this one every couple of months.
Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to make your tonneau cover last even longer. It’s not water and snow that wear out the cover, but dirt, dust, and road salt that slowly wear out your cover. Sun can be problematic as well, so if you can park your truck in the shade, you can extend your tonneau cover’s lifespan significantly.
Routine Maintenance
We recommend performing routine maintenance once every several months if you don’t drive much or once every oil change if you do a lot of highway driving. It doesn’t have to be too involved, but takes a little bit of time and effort. Make sure you’re not treating your tonneau cover with the same materials as the rest of your vehicle paneling and trim.
Start by rinsing down the surface, then pat the surface down. Use a spray nylon cleaner like the Tyger Tonneau Cover Cleaner, then agitate the solution with a brush, cloth, or sponge. If there’s a stain, you can let the product sit for a few minutes. Afterward, rinse clean and let it air dry. Once every other cleaning you can apply a rubber conditioner. This 30-minute process can lengthen the life of your cover by upwards of a year if done frequently and correctly.
Tonneau Cover FAQ
How Much Does a Hard Tonneau Cover Cost?
Tonneau covers range wildly in price. While you can typically pick up a soft tonneau cover for around $100, hard tonneau covers start out at around $200 at the low end and can cost well over $1000 for versions made with exotic, lightweight, and thus expensive materials. These more expensive covers are typically longer-lasting, produce a stronger seal, and have a higher resistance to weight.
What’s Better, a Hard or Soft Folding Tonneau Cover?
Looking at price, a hard folding tonneau cover is definitely more expensive, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s better for all users. While hard tonneau covers are certainly more durable and longer-lasting, soft-folding tonneau covers are easier to put on and remove, which has its advantages.
As they take up less space, you can store a soft folding cover for occasional use when the weather turns somewhere in your cabin. If you want a permanent solution, however, and you’ve got a larger budget, a hard cover will typically serve you better and protect your cargo.
What’s Better, a Roll-up Cover or a Folding Cover?
As far as folding hard covers go, there are different types for different users. If you’re looking to minimize price and weight, think about a roll-up cover that uses synthetic compounds as opposed to metals to maintain rigidity. Tri-fold and bi-fold covers are better at maintaining rigidity and can hold more weight but they’re generally a bit more expensive, they’re harder to maneuver, and they are almost always heavier.
Where Does the Word “Tonneau” Come From?
Tonneau is a technical term for any open cargo compartment of a truck or car. It comes from the French word that means ‘cask’ or ‘barrel.’ Any pickup bed or open truck bed can be referred to as a tonneau, thus, any covering for that cargo compartment can be called a tonneau cover.
Keep Your Cargo Safe
As a truck driver, there are few things more important than the cargo you haul in your pickup bed. So it’s important to keep that cargo protected, and while there are many ways to do that, one of the most effective protection methods is a hard tonneau cover.
Hard tonneau covers attach semi-permanently to the rails of your pickup bed, providing a lockable yet removable method to secure and protect the contents of your bed. While they’re a little bit pricey, they can pay for themselves over time by protecting your valuables and even making your truck more aerodynamic. More

We’ve all been there. You stuck your weekend car in the garage, then life happened, and now it’s been 4 months. The battery is drained because there’s some gremlin that’s draining your battery, and you didn’t know about it. Now what would have been a pleasant drive up the coast is a day spent looking for the charger you swear you had in the shed. Next time, throw a disconnect switch on your battery before you store it.
If you are looking for a disconnect switch, we put together this guide for you. We’ll talk about the basics, give you a top ten list with reviews, and follow up with some in-depth stuff. In the end, we’ll try and answer any question you’ll have and get you informed as fast as possible.

Battery Disconnect Basics
There is nothing complicated about a disconnect switch; their entire function is summed up in the name. There are some key things to keep in mind when looking for one, though. First, let’s look at some of the reasons you might install a disconnect. Knowing the application will help you determine which features you want.
Reasons to Install a Disconnect
The following are the common reasons to install an on/off switch for your battery. We’ll go more in depth in the big guide on these.
Security: If the battery does not provide power to the starter, a would-be thief can not start the car unless they connect it.
Battery Longevity: Disconnecting the battery before putting a car in storage will prevent the battery from discharging while in storage.
Convenience: When you work on a car, the first step is often “disconnect the battery.” If you work on your car a lot, it can save a ton of time if all you have to do is flip a switch.
The Types of Disconnect Switch
Two main categories separate different switches from one another: where they can be installed and how they operate.
Install Location
There are two primary places you can install a disconnect switch.
On the Terminal: Many switches attach directly to a battery terminal.
Remote: Remote switches can be installed anywhere that you can reach. You simply run the battery cable to the switch and then to the car.
Operation Type
There are basically four different ways that a switch will work.
Rotary: A rotary switch is very simple and is the most common type. You just turn the dial on or off.
Screw: A screw style switch uses a knob that you unscrew to turn off. They are very simple and hard to damage.
Key: A keyed switch needs a special key to turn the switch on or off.
Knife: A knife, or blade, style switch is a lever that makes a connection between two contact points.
Other Considerations
There are a handful of other considerations beyond the type of switch.
Amperage Rating: We’ll talk more about amperage below. Generally speaking, it’s not something you have to worry about unless you have extra lights, an aftermarket sound system, or a larger vehicle. 100-200 amps is sufficient for most vehicles.
Weatherproofing: Boats, off-road vehicles, and heavy equipment should use switches that are waterproof and protected from mud.
Price: Disconnect switches are relatively inexpensive, but some do cost quite a bit more than others. You’ll have to pay more for high amp ratings, all-metal construction for durability, and specialized designs.
Access: Most switches will be installed near the battery, so you need to be able to get to the cables and reach the switch. If you can’t, or don’t want to have an easily accessed switch for safety reasons, there are relay-based switches that can be installed anywhere.
Looks: It’s probably not a priority for most people, but it’s nice to have a switch that fits into the theme of your build or is high-contrast and easy to find.
That’s about it for features and qualities. When you look through our list, just note that primarily we wanted to make sure we have a good variety for you to choose from. That way, you can find the one that fits your needs the best, even if it’s not the one we think is the best.

Top 10 Car Battery Disconnect Switches 2021
1. Best Overall Switch: Kohree Battery Disconnect

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Why we like it: The Kohree Battery Disconnect is just a basic, easy to mount disconnect switch. It’s inexpensive and does its job; it’s hard to beat that combo.
Editor’s Rating:

Facts
Install Location: Remote
Type: Rotary Switch
Amp Rating: 275
The Best Feature
The Kohree switch is just a simple on/off dial. Nothing really stands out about it, but it works just fine, and it’s inexpensive. It’s easy enough to mount, simple to use, and is instantly identifiable as a battery disconnect. Usually, that’s all you want.
What Could be Better
It’s all plastic, which means it won’t last as long as a metal switch. Most people don’t disconnect their batteries often, so this switch will probably last as long as your battery with no issue.
The bigger issue is that it can’t be installed flush. In fact, it’s a little awkward to install altogether. It has plastic covers that keep debris out, which is nice but adds frustration to the process.
How Does it Compare
Everything else on our list has some specialty. That means if you need something specific, there’s probably a better option. For instance, if you have a high amperage application, there’s this switch that can handle a lot more current. If you need better security, this inexpensive switch is operated by a separate key. If flush mounting is important to you, this QuickCar switch is perfect.
For most people, though, the Kohree Battery Disconnect is fine, and that’s why we recommend it.

Pros
Inexpensive
Easy to use
Easy to find

Cons
Not as durable as other switches
Can be frustrating to mount

2. Best Budget Switch: Top Post Master Disconnect

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Why we like it: These simple screw-style switches are inexpensive and couldn’t be easier to install.
Editor’s Rating:

Facts
Install Location: On the terminal
Type: Screw
Amp Rating: 300
The Best Feature
The best thing about a screw style post mount switch like this is that they could not be easier to install. You pop the battery cable off and slip the switch onto the terminal. That makes installing these switches a very approachable project for anyone. They are also cheap, but unlike a lot of inexpensive things, they are still fairly strong.
What Could be Better
You have to mount it to the battery, which means you have to have access to the battery to use it. You also need space, although not as much as other styles of terminal mounted switches.
The only issue that you might run into is that since they are so cheap, there are inconsistencies from part to part that affect the size and shape. You may find that it’s not quite big enough to just slip onto a terminal or that the post is too big for a standard cable end. It’s nothing a tap with a rubber hammer won’t fix, but it can be annoying.
How Does it Compare
We have a right angle switch here that installs and functions identically but can help if your cable routing doesn’t allow for the extra length this switch offers. Also, if you don’t have a standard post style battery, you’ll need a remote switch or a side post switch.
You will have to spend more for just about everything else, though, even if it’s not much more. When a car part can be cheap and straightforward, it’s hard to justify spending more for a piece that performs the same.

Pros
Inexpensive
Simple to install
Durable

Cons
Won’t fit on some batteries
Might need to be reshaped to fit your car

3. Best Premium Switch: Flaming River FR1044

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Why we like it: If you are racing or just want something that is hardcore, you need a switch like this. It’s waterproof, impact-proof, and has its own sturdy mounting bracket.
Editor’s Rating:

Facts
Install Location: Remote
Type: Rotary Dial
Amp Rating: 250
The Best Feature
The Flaming River switch can handle 2,500 amps for short bursts. That gives it the highest amp rating on our list and makes it one of the very few switches suitable for being installed on a large battery. People with bigger trucks or huge sound systems who need a shutoff will love that.
What Could be Better
It’s the most robust switch on this list, but it’s also the most expensive. Most of the time, that won’t be an issue. If you need a switch like this, especially if you’re building some kind of competition vehicle, chances are you’ve already spent a lot more on other components.
The other issue, and it’s a really minor issue, is that it can disappear in an engine bay. The black mounting bracket and dull metal finish make it blend in with grease and bolts. It’s nothing some red paint can’t fix, but most other switches on this list are already high-contrast and easy to find.
How Does it Compare
The Blue Sea Systems switch is also an all-metal, waterproof, and high-current switch. Unless you really need the extra amp rating that this switch offers, the Blue Sea Systems switch will work just fine and save you a lot of cash.

Pros
Waterproof
Heavy-duty
High amp rating

Cons
Very expensive
It’s probably more than you need

4. Waterproof High-Current Switch: Blue Sea Systems

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Why we like it: This bright red switch is easily identifiable and easy to use, but the best part is that it can be installed in a variety of ways. That keeps everything clean and tidy under the hood.
Editor’s Rating:

Facts
Install Location: Remote
Type: Rotary Switch
Amp Rating: 350
The Best Feature
It’s indestructible, has a high amp rating, and can be installed anywhere. If you have an RV or boat that has batteries in need of isolation, this is perfect. It’s especially good for RVs since it’s rated to 48v. A battery bank with 4 batteries can all be hooked to this single switch.
What Could be Better
It is a bit expensive. That’s because it’s made of metal and has beefy internal parts, which means that the quality is worth the price. It just is rather expensive for what amounts to a fancy light switch.
It’s also not the most intuitive thing to mount. It has four holes through the case that you can run a bolt through, but if you are going to install it on a dash, it’ll protrude awkwardly, or you’ll have to source out a faceplate for it.
How Does it Compare
This switch sits comfortably between the Flaming River switch and the Kohree switch. It has a much higher amp rating than the Kohree but has a higher price to match. If you just need a simple switch for your car or RV and don’t need the extra durability or heft, the Kohree might suit you better.
On the other hand, if you have a race car and need something even more robust, the Flaming River switch is what you need.
If you have a boat, though, we consider this your best option. Even though the Kohree is technically rated for marine applications, you are going to want the extra quality that this switch offers. It’s one thing to be stuck on the highway waiting for a tow truck. It’s a whole new level of frustration rowing a large boat back to a dock.

Pros
Well-made
High amp rating
Waterproof

Cons
A little expensive for a switch
Can be hard to mount

5. Best Relay Switch: Stinger SGP38

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Why we like it: A disconnect switch attached to a relay can be installed near the battery but operated from anywhere. That makes them perfect for anti-theft applications.
Editor’s Rating:

Facts
Install Location: Remote
Type: Relay
Amp Rating: 80
The Best Feature
Most switches have to be installed near the battery because it’s difficult to run the heavy cables needed. A relay controlled switch solves that issue because you can install the body close to the battery but operate it using a switch mounted anywhere.
The biggest reason to use something like this is that it makes for excellent theft protection. You hide the on/off switch somewhere in your cabin, like under a cup holder or behind a false panel. When you park in a bad area, you flip the switch. That way, even if some loser manages to get into your car, they can’t hotwire it since the battery is disconnected.
What Could be Better
The amp rating is fairly low, which is unfortunate. If you are isolating a secondary battery or just interrupting a solenoid signal for anti-theft, it’s fine. It’s going to break if you try to use it as a main cut-off for your entire system.
How Does it Compare
If you compare this switch to a dedicated disconnect like the Blue Sea switch, you’ll find a lot to complain about. The Blue Sea switch is waterproof, can handle a large amount of current, and is incredibly durable. This Stinger switch is none of those things.
All that really means is that you have to do a lot more thinking and prep to best utilize this relay switch. If you want something similar but a bit easier to use, check out the wireless relay switch. It’s more complicated, but you can operate it from anywhere.

Pros
The switch doesn’t need to be near the battery
Good for theft protection
Easy to operate

Cons
Has a low amp rating
Is more complicated to install

6. Easy Access Switch: Zoostliss Battery Disconnect

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Why we like it: This is a very inexpensive switch that can be mounted remotely for easy access.
Editor’s Rating:

Facts
Install Location: Remote
Type: Rotary Switch
Amp Rating: 500
The Best Feature
There are two neat things about this switch, and both lend themselves well for using this switch on smaller, non-car things. The first thing is that it’s easy to mount anywhere since it’s really compact and designed to be externally mounted. The second thing is that it’s operated using a removable key, so if you don’t want someone to use your lawnmower when you aren’t home, you can just leave with the key.
What Could be Better
The quality could be better. That’s something that’s expected from a cheaper product, but it’s worth saying.
The other issue is that you can lose the key. The key is on the big side and awkwardly shaped, so it is not something you can just thread onto your keychain and forget about. Chances are you’ll throw it into a toolbox where it will get lost in a sea of sockets, and then you’ll go to try and dump your trailer of dirt and won’t be able to find it.
How Does it Compare
The Zootliss switch here is low in cost, which lets it compete against the screw style switches. That means if you don’t want a terminal mounted disconnect and are on a budget, this is the best option we list.
However, the Top Post Master switch, or a more expensive switch like the one by QuickCar, will serve you better if you want a disconnect for your primary vehicle. Neither will leave you stranded if you lose the key, and both are of higher quality.

Pros
Inexpensive
Secure
Easy to install

Cons
Quality could be better
If you lose the keys, you’re out of luck

7. Great Looking: QuickCar Racing Products 55-010

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Why we like it: The QuickCar switch looks great with its black mounting plate and a bright red dial.
Editor’s Rating:

Facts
Install Location: Remote
Type: Rotary Dial
Amp Rating: 125
The Best Feature
This switch isn’t unique in operation or function, but it is unique in the fact that it looks like it fits in a high-performance dash. It has a mounting plate that is more familiar than the standoffs that many switches use, and the high contrast red on black color scheme fits right into the racecar motif.
What Could be Better
There’s nothing really wrong with it, but there’s a lot of little areas that could be improved. It’s not as protected as other switches, so a little bit of shielding and waterproofing would go a long way to improve the design.
It would also really benefit from a higher amp rating. It’s fine for your dirt oval car that has a total of 3 wires, but the minute you add radios, lights, and beefy ignition systems you’ll reach the limit of what this switch can handle.
How Does it Compare
If you are considering this disconnect, you are looking for something that fits your high-performance car. There are two other switches on our list that are meant to be used as safety disconnects on race cars or similar: the Flaming River switch and the Blue Sea Systems switch.
Both are more expensive than this QuickCar switch, but both can handle a lot more amperage. If you have a truck or something that will get covered in mud, the Blue Sea switch is waterproof. If you have a car that has a really serious electrical system and can pull over 1,000 CCA, get the Flaming River switch. If you have a race car on a budget or a restomod that has to look good, the QuickCar is perfect.

Pros
Looks good
Has a standard mounting plate
Is inexpensive for its category

Cons
The amp rating isn’t very high
It isn’t waterproof

8. Wireless Remote Switch: WATERWICH 12V

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Why we like it: The ability to disconnect the battery wirelessly makes operation effortless. Plus, it’s a great way to prank your friends.
Editor’s Rating:

Facts
Install Location: Remote
Type: Wireless Relay
Amp Rating: 180
The Best Feature
The best and defining feature of this shutoff switch is that it’s controlled by a key fob. That means you get out of your car, hit the keychain, and the battery is disconnected. If anti-theft is what you want most out of a disconnect switch, this is your best option.
What Could be Better
We wish it was easier to install. That’s what’s going to turn most people off when it comes to this device. Unlike a traditional switch that just needs one input and one output, a wireless remote switch needs constant power. That adds a layer of complexity and another failure point to the electrical system.
How Does it Compare
If you don’t value the ability to disconnect the battery from outside the car using the wireless transmitter, then there’s really no reason to get this switch. A standard relay switch like the Stinger is still great for anti-theft, and almost any rotary switch will be more reliable over time.
One of the smaller things to consider is that it’s actually easier to fit into an engine bay despite being more complicated to install. Most remote switches still have to be accessed; you need to be able to reach in and flip the switch. With a relay switch, you don’t have to be able to reach it. You can hide it underneath the battery without any issue, meaning that even if thieves can jimmy your hood open, they’ll need time and tools to take your ride.

Pros
Can be operated outside the car
Great for theft protection
Can be installed in places with low access

Cons
Is more complicated than other switches
Not as reliable as other switches

9. Decent Side Post Switch: Abigail Disconnect

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Why we like it: If you have a battery that uses side posts, common in GM vehicles, a side post switch like this one is perfect. It’s compact, easy to install, and inexpensive.
Editor’s Rating:

Facts
Install Location: On the terminal
Type: Knife
Amp Rating: 250
The Best Feature
The greatest thing about a knife-style disconnect is that they are incredibly simple and easy to understand. It’s just a bar of metal that is either making a connection or not.
What that’s best for is for people who do a lot of work on their vehicle and will be connecting or disconnecting the battery often. You can flip it off, make a change, then flip it on without needing to spend a ton on a high amperage rotary switch.
What Could be Better
There are a few big disadvantages to the knife-style design. The most significant problem is that it has a ton of exposed copper, so you absolutely should not use it on the positive terminal.
That leads to the second issue, which is that it has to be installed on the side of the battery. It takes up a lot of room, so if you are cramped for space in the engine bay, it’s a terrible option.
How Does it Compare
For most people, something like the Top Post Master switch is a better option because that style of terminal is more common, and that style of switch is more secure. However, if you have screw style terminals, which are really common in GM vehicles, then you can’t use the Top Post Master switch. That leaves a remote switch or something that can mount to the side of the battery like this knife switch.

Pros
Mounts to bolt in style battery terminals
Very easy to operate
Easy to install

Cons
Only fits a certain battery type
Takes up a bit of space compared to others

10. Alternative Budget Switch: GraceMe Right Angle

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Why we like it: When a standard top post disconnect won’t fit, a 90-degree switch like this may be what you need.
Editor’s Rating:

Facts
Install Location: On the terminal
Type: Screw
Amp Rating: 150
The Best Feature
This switch sits at an angle so that you have extra options when connecting the cable to the terminal. That’s especially useful if you have short cable or are worried about clearances.
What Could be Better
Screw style switches that mount to a terminal sufferer from the same handful of issues. The screw is a bit more prone to failure than a rotary dial is, and if you are unlucky, it’s easy to lose the screw if you take it all the way off.
The bigger problem, and it’s one that affects every post style terminal connection, is that it only works with a specific size of terminal post. If you have screw in terminals or want to install the disconnect on something that isn’t a car, you are out of luck.
How Does it Compare
It installs and functions identically to the Top Post Master switch; it just has a different configuration. It’s still cheap, it’s easy to install and easy to use. If you don’t want something hanging off a terminal, get the inexpensive Zoostliss switch instead. For 90% of applications, this switch or the Top Post Master switch will be just fine.

Pros
Easy to install
Easy to use
Inexpensive

Cons
Only fits one type of battery
Has to be mounted on the battery

A Closer Look at Disconnects
We said above that we’d get into some of the specifics. We would hate to be liars, so here we go. We will start with expanding on the different uses for a disconnect switch.
Uses for a Disconnect Switch
We mentioned it before, but the most significant factor when choosing a switch for yourself is what you are going to do with it.
Race Car Safety
Many sanctioned race bodies require a battery shutoff. You’ll have to check with the rules for whatever event you are participating in. Be aware that sometimes safety tech wants the switch on the positive side.
Anti-Theft
The general idea behind using a battery disconnect for anti-theft is that a thief can’t start the car and drive away if they have no power. The downside is that most disconnect switches are designed to be easy to get to, which means that the thief will be able to simply turn them back on.
If you are looking for anti-theft from a switch, get one that either has a hidden switch that activates a relay or that uses a key. That way, even if a thief can get your hood open, they can’t simply hook the power back up.
Storage
You should generally disconnect your car’s, boat’s, or lawnmower’s battery before putting it into long-term storage. Most vehicles will have some parasitic loss. That loss comes from small devices or wiring issues that draw a tiny amount of energy from the battery. It may take those small leaks months to lower the voltage significantly, but they can kill a battery if left too long.
If you are storing something with a battery long-term, consider picking up a battery maintainer as well. We have an entire article about them over here.
Battery Isolation
RVs, some trucks, and cars with aftermarket sound systems will often run multiple batteries. Some people will even install extra batteries to help run inverters and similar things. By isolating the batteries, you can control how they charge and what they are used for.
While this is a common reason, you should consider using a battery isolator instead of or in addition to a disconnect. You can brush up on what those do here.
Convenience
Whenever you work on a car, you should remove the negative battery cable. Popular Mechanics has a good breakdown of why, including a mildly terrifying anecdote. If you do a lot of work on your car, or need to diagnose electrical problems, having a simple disconnect switch will save you a ton of time and frustration.
About Amperage
Amperage ratings can cause a little bit of confusion. Your battery is measured by the Cold Cranking Amps it can produce. That’s the amount of current the battery can produce for a very brief period of time to start the car.
A switch will have a similar rating in terms of the maximum amperage. However, that information can be hard to find or inaccurate. The general amp rating is more accurate and easier to find on the switch. It’s a much more difficult number to derive from your car, though, which makes matching a switch to your electrical system frustrating.
Adding Up the Accessories
A very basic electrical system only has an amp draw of 50-100 amps, which means that every switch on our list is sufficient. In order to find out whether or not you need a high-current switch, you need to look at all the things attached to your battery. Start with 80, then add:
+5 amps per extra light
+100 for a high-performance or larger engine (5 liter+ or diesel truck)
+20 for small subwoofer and amp
+50 for a larger aftermarket sound system
+20 for a small inverter
+100 for a large inverter
If you want to be more precise, you need to calculate the total wattage of all your accessories and divide that number by 12. Then add that number to the output of your alternator, and then give yourself a 5% margin of error. The truth is, though, the worst-case scenario is that you break your switch and are out a few dollars.
Installation Tips

Once you get your new disconnect switch, you have to install it. Keep the following tips in mind.
Use the right cable size. If you are installing the switch far away from the battery, you may need a larger diameter cable. Use this simple calculator to find out the wire size.
Beware of objects that can short out the switch. Especially if the switch is a blade or screw that is exposed, and extra especially if you are installing the switch on the positive or hot side of the battery.
Be aware that many batteries have multiple wires for each terminal. The disconnect will not work unless you sever the connection entirely.
If a battery disconnect is getting very hot, there is an issue. Disconnect the battery asap and look for shorts/double-check your amperages.
A battery disconnect switch is not an engine kill switch. It cannot be used in place of one.
FAQ

What Does A Battery Disconnect Switch Do?
As the name suggests, a battery disconnect switch is a device that breaks the connection between the car battery and the rest of the car. They are used for a variety of reasons, including anti-theft, safety, diagnosis, and to avoid loss of charge over time.
Should The Disconnect Be On The Positive Or Negative Side?
Most of the time, you should install a disconnect switch on the negative terminal. However, there are some situations that it’s better to install on the positive side. Multiple battery setups often have multiple grounds, so you have to use the single positive wire as the disconnect spot. Also, if you are drag racing, they often require the disconnect to be on the positive side.
Can A Battery Disconnect Switch Go Bad?
Yes, although it’s rare. Anything that has moving parts will wear out eventually. The good news is that if a disconnect switch fails, there is very little risk to your engine.
Where Are Battery Disconnect Switches Installed?
Most inexpensive disconnect switches are installed directly onto the battery terminal. Fancier switches can be remote and installed anywhere. They will often need to remain close to the battery due to factors like wire size and space, but there’s no rule that says you must do that.
Why Is It Better To Disconnect The Negative Cable?
The reason you put the disconnect on the negative side, as well as the reason you disconnect the negative side when working on the car, is that it lowers the risk of shorting out the system. The entire car is connected to the negative side through the ground, so if you accidentally touch the negative terminal to a part of the car nothing will happen. If you accidentally touch the positive side to the car, though, you will get sparks and risk damaging components.
Wrapping Up
Whether you are looking for convenience or peace of mind, a battery switch is a simple solution to many battery-related issues. If you have three minutes, a crescent wrench, and enough money to buy lunch, then you have everything you need to install a disconnect. Grab one and avoid the frustration of a dead battery. More