Product Reviews : A.R.E. Truck Caps and Tonneau Covers

I purchased a LSII in 1999 from a Las Vegas outlet and this is my personal opinion based on many years of experience and I'm entitled to my opinion. I put it on a 1999 Nissan Frontier pickup. Loved the cvr although it was not without faults. I talked to A.R.E. reps about them but they were not "deal breakers" for me. 1st the drawbacks; the dealer had to send the original back because of paint quality. They informed me the the 2nd rendition wasn't much better and as a matter of fact, they thought it wasn't as good as the 1st. I thought it was suitable. The 2nd area of concern was the rails nearest the cab were too narrow. Again, not a deal breaker because the mounting clamps held it in place. Didn't seal well however and perhaps the "fit" was indeed the cause. Not sure about that though. I enjoyed the cap and I don't think I would own a pickup without one! A.R.E. or other brand. NOW, fast forward to 2015. After 14+ years everything worked, was solid even though the struts were a bit weak in the cold winters as I relocated to the north. The warranted problem was the paint. Like a boat, it deteriated to the gel coating and I discovered that A.R.E. warranted it FOREVER as long as it is mounted to the original truck, to the original owner and the original paperwork is present! BINGO! After a couple of years with a rough looking cap, I took it in to see how A.R.E. would handle it. (I didn't realize the warranty situation until visiting their site for possible new truck in future). Well, A.R.E passed this one with flying colors as not only did A.R.E. stand by their written warranty, they REPLACED THE CAP WITH A BRAND NEW UPDATED AND CARPETED LSII tonneau. And after 14+ years! Good going to the A.R.E. team!! I am definitely considering a new cap for a new truck this year from A.R.E. as they went well beyond what was expected. These caps, and any others for that matter, are not cheap but if one can spring for one! A.R.E. products are impressive to be sure and they have been around for awhile now. They stand firm behind their products as I have found out first hand. Happy motoring with your secure and dry protective cap!