The Extang Trifecta 2.0 Soft Folding Tonneau Cover is a top-rated choice for truck owners.

If you already own one, or you’re thinking about getting one, you’re in the right place.

While many users love this cover, I know some folks might run into issues. Don’t worry – these problems aren’t universal! Whether you’re troubleshooting your current Trifecta 2.0 or doing research before buying, I’ve got you covered.

In this article, I’ll walk you through common problems and their solutions. Good news: many fixes are simpler than you might expect.

Let’s dive in and keep your truck bed protected with a smooth-functioning Trifecta 2.0.

Common Problems with the Extang Trifecta 2.0 Tonneau Cover

1. Water Leakage and Pooling

Water issues are probably the biggest headache for some Trifecta 2.0 owners. Nobody wants a wet truck bed, right?

Why It Happens

There are a few reasons why your Trifecta 2.0 might be letting water in:

1. Poor seal alignment: If the cover isn’t sitting right on your truck bed, it can leave gaps where water sneaks in.
2. Worn out seals: Over time, the rubber seals can get old and stop doing their job.
3. Incorrect installation: If the cover isn’t put on just right, it might not seal properly.
4. Design issues: Some users say the cover’s design allows water to pool in certain spots.

How to Fix It

Don’t worry, you’ve got options:

1. Check the alignment: Make sure your cover is sitting straight and even on your truck bed. Adjust if needed.
2. Inspect the seals: Look for any worn or damaged spots. You might be able to replace just the seals instead of the whole cover.
3. Re-install the cover: Take it off and put it back on, following the instructions carefully. Sometimes, that’s all it takes.
4. Use additional sealing: Some folks have had luck using weatherstripping or foam tape in problem areas.
5. Contact Extang: If nothing else works, reach out to the company. They might have specific solutions or be able to replace your cover.

2. Flapping in the Wind

Nobody likes a noisy drive. If your cover’s flapping around like a flag in a hurricane, here’s what you need to know.

Why It Happens

1. Loose cover material: If the vinyl isn’t tight enough, it can catch the wind.
2. Missing support: Some users say the Trifecta 2.0 could use more crossbars for support.
3. High speeds: The faster you go, the more likely you are to hear flapping.

How to Fix It

1. Tighten the cover: Check if you can adjust the tension on your cover. Some models let you do this.
2. Add support: You might be able to install additional support bars to keep the cover taut.
3. Use anti-flap strips: These stick-on strips can help reduce noise.
4. Drive slower: I know, not the solution you want to hear, but it can help if you’re on a long trip.

3. Poor Fit on Some Truck Models

Not all trucks are created equal, and sometimes the Trifecta 2.0 doesn’t play nice with certain models.

Why It Happens

1. Generic design: The cover is designed to fit multiple truck models, which can lead to fit issues.
2. Truck bed variations: Even within the same make and model, truck beds can vary slightly.
3. Incorrect sizing: Sometimes, the wrong size cover gets shipped out.

How to Fix It

1. Double-check your model: Make sure you ordered the right cover for your specific truck make, model, and year.
2. Adjust the rails: Some covers let you adjust the side rails to get a better fit.
3. Use shims: In some cases, adding shims can help the cover sit better on your truck.
4. Contact Extang: If the fit is way off, you might need a replacement or a different model.

4. Loose Material on Frame

A saggy cover just doesn’t look good, and it can lead to other problems too.

Why It Happens

1. Stretching over time: The vinyl material can stretch with use and exposure to the elements.
2. Temperature changes: Extreme heat or cold can affect the cover’s tightness.
3. Inadequate tension system: Some users feel the Trifecta 2.0’s tension system could be better.

How to Fix It

1. Adjust the tension: Check your user manual for ways to tighten the cover.
2. Re-stretch the material: On a warm day, try leaving the cover open in the sun for a bit, then close it. The heat can help the material shrink back.
3. Replace the cover: If it’s really bad, you might need a new cover. Check your warranty status.

5. Quality Issues Compared to Older Models

Some long-time Extang users say the Trifecta 2.0 doesn’t quite measure up to older versions.

Why It Happens

1. Design changes: Extang might have changed some things to cut costs or improve certain features.
2. Different materials: The company could be using different materials than they used to.
3. Manufacturing variations: Sometimes quality can vary between batches.

How to Fix It

1. Provide feedback: Let Extang know about your concerns. Companies often use customer feedback to improve their products.
2. Consider upgrades: Look into aftermarket parts that might improve the cover’s performance.
3. Explore other options: If you’re really unhappy, you might want to look at other Extang models or different brands.

6. Weak or Cheap Latches/Clamps

The latches and clamps are crucial for keeping your cover secure. If they’re not up to snuff, it can cause all sorts of problems.

Why It Happens

1. Cost-cutting measures: Sometimes companies use cheaper parts to keep prices down.
2. Design flaws: The latch design might not be as robust as it could be.
3. Normal wear and tear: Even good latches can wear out over time.

How to Fix It

1. Lubricate moving parts: A little WD-40 can sometimes work wonders.
2. Adjust the latches: Many latches have adjustment screws. Tightening these might help.
3. Replace the hardware: You might be able to buy stronger replacement latches.
4. DIY reinforcement: Some users have had luck adding their own metal reinforcements to weak points.

7. Insufficient Sealing at Cab and Tailgate

The front and back of your cover are prime spots for leaks if they’re not sealing properly.

Why It Happens

1. Gap between cover and truck: If the cover doesn’t sit flush, you’ll get leaks.
2. Worn out seals: The rubber seals can deteriorate over time.
3. Tailgate misalignment: If your tailgate isn’t closing right, it can affect the cover’s seal.

How to Fix It

1. Adjust the cover: Try repositioning the cover to get a better seal.
2. Replace the seals: You can often buy replacement seals without replacing the whole cover.
3. Check your tailgate: Make sure it’s closing properly and adjust if needed.
4. Add extra sealing: Some users have luck adding foam tape or weatherstripping for a better seal.

8. Hardware Loosening Over Time

Nothing’s more annoying than hearing rattles from loose hardware when you’re driving.

Why It Happens

1. Vibration: The constant shaking from driving can loosen bolts and screws.
2. Temperature changes: Expanding and contracting with temperature can work things loose.
3. Cheap hardware: Lower quality nuts and bolts are more likely to come loose.

How to Fix It

1. Regular checks: Make it a habit to check and tighten hardware every month or so.
2. Use thread locker: A product like Loctite can help keep bolts from working loose.
3. Upgrade the hardware: Consider replacing the original hardware with higher quality parts.
4. Add lock washers: These can help keep nuts and bolts from backing out.

9. Installation Difficulties on Some Truck Models

Getting your cover installed right is key to avoiding problems down the road.

Why It Happens

1. Unclear instructions: Sometimes the manual just isn’t as clear as it could be.
2. Model-specific issues: Your truck might have features that make installation tricky.
3. Lack of experience: If you’re not handy with tools, installation can be challenging.

How to Fix It

1. Read carefully: Go through the instructions a few times before you start.
2. Watch videos: Look for model-specific installation videos online.
3. Phone a friend: If you know someone who’s good with this stuff, ask for help.
4. Professional installation: If all else fails, consider having a pro do it.

10. Lack of Support Bars/Cross Beams

Some users feel the Trifecta 2.0 could use more support to prevent sagging and flapping.

Why It Happens

1. Design choice: Extang might have reduced the number of supports to make the cover lighter or easier to use.
2. Cost-cutting: Fewer supports means less material and lower production costs.
3. One-size-fits-all approach: The same design is used for different truck bed sizes, which might not work well for all of them.

How to Fix It

1. DIY support: Some users have added their own support bars using materials from hardware stores.
2. Third-party add-ons: Look for aftermarket support kits designed for tonneau covers.
3. Tension adjustments: Sometimes, getting the cover tension just right can reduce the need for extra support.
4. Consider alternatives: If this is a deal-breaker for you, you might want to look at other cover models with more built-in support.

Final Thoughts

Whew! We’ve covered a lot of ground here. Remember, while these issues can pop up with the Extang Trifecta 2.0, many users are happy with their covers.

The key is to stay on top of maintenance and address any problems quickly. Don’t be afraid to reach out to Extang or check online forums for help.

With a little know-how and some elbow grease, you can keep your Trifecta 2.0 in tip-top shape for years to come. Happy trucking!