The Leer HF650M is a popular truck cap known for its durability and sleek design.

As an owner or potential buyer, you might wonder about possible issues.

While not everyone experiences problems, some users may face challenges.

In this article, I’ll walk you through common Leer HF650M issues and their solutions.

Don’t worry – many fixes are simpler than you might think!

Whether you’re troubleshooting or just doing your homework before a purchase, I’ve got you covered.

Leer HF650M Problems

Most Common Leer HF650M Problems

Water Leaks

Water Leaks

One of the most frustrating issues you might face with your Leer HF650M is water leaks. Nobody wants a wet truck bed, especially when you’re trying to protect your cargo.

Possible Causes:

  • Worn out or damaged seals
  • Improper installation
  • Debris in the seal gaps

How to Fix:

  1. Inspect the seals: Check for any visible damage or wear. If you spot any issues, you might need to replace the seals.
  2. Clean the seals: Use a mild soap and water solution to clean the seals. This can remove any dirt or debris that might be preventing a proper seal.
  3. Check the installation: Make sure the cover is properly aligned and all clamps are securely fastened.
  4. Apply seal lubricant: A silicone-based lubricant can help the seals perform better and last longer.

If these steps don’t solve the problem, you might need to contact Leer for professional assistance or replacement parts.

Lock Malfunction

Lock Malfunction

A malfunctioning lock can be a real headache, compromising both the security and functionality of your tonneau cover.

Possible Causes:

  • Dirt or debris in the lock mechanism
  • Misalignment of the locking components
  • Worn out lock parts

How to Fix:

  1. Clean the lock: Use compressed air or a soft brush to remove any dirt or debris from the lock mechanism.
  2. Lubricate the lock: Apply a graphite-based lubricant to the lock. Avoid using oil-based products as they can attract dirt.
  3. Check alignment: Ensure that the locking components are properly aligned when the cover is closed.
  4. Inspect for damage: If you notice any broken or worn parts, they may need to be replaced.

If the lock still isn’t working properly after these steps, it might be time to replace the entire lock mechanism or seek professional help.

Seal Degradation

Seal Degradation

Over time, the seals on your Leer HF650M might start to degrade. This can lead to water leaks and reduced protection for your truck bed contents.

Possible Causes:

  • Normal wear and tear
  • Exposure to extreme temperatures or harsh weather
  • Chemical damage from cleaning products

How to Fix:

  1. Regular cleaning: Clean your seals gently with mild soap and water to remove dirt and grime.
  2. Conditioning: Apply a rubber conditioner to keep the seals pliable and prevent cracking.
  3. Avoid harsh chemicals: When cleaning your truck, be careful not to expose the seals to harsh chemicals that could damage them.
  4. Replace worn seals: If the seals are beyond repair, you’ll need to replace them. Contact Leer for the correct replacement parts.

Remember, taking care of your seals proactively can extend their life and prevent more serious issues down the road.

Difficulty Opening or Closing

Difficulty Opening or Closing

If you’re struggling to open or close your Leer HF650M, it can really put a damper on your day. This issue can stem from several causes.

Possible Causes:

  • Misalignment of the cover
  • Damaged or worn hinges
  • Broken gas struts
  • Debris in the tracks

How to Fix:

  1. Check alignment: Ensure that the cover is properly aligned with your truck bed. You might need to loosen and readjust the clamps.
  2. Inspect hinges: Look for any signs of damage or wear on the hinges. Lubricate them if they seem stiff.
  3. Test gas struts: If the cover feels heavy to lift, the gas struts might need replacement.
  4. Clean the tracks: Use a soft brush to remove any debris from the tracks that guide the cover’s movement.

If you’ve tried these steps and are still having trouble, it might be time to consult with a professional or contact Leer directly.

Rust or Corrosion

Rust or Corrosion

Rust and corrosion can be a major concern, especially if you live in an area with high humidity or near the coast.

Possible Causes:

  • Exposure to moisture
  • Salt air or road salt
  • Scratches or chips in the protective coating

How to Fix:

  1. Regular cleaning: Wash your tonneau cover regularly, especially after exposure to salt or other corrosive substances.
  2. Dry thoroughly: After washing or rain, make sure to dry the cover completely, paying special attention to joints and crevices.
  3. Apply protective coating: Use a rust inhibitor or protective wax to add an extra layer of protection.
  4. Address scratches promptly: If you notice any scratches or chips in the finish, touch them up quickly to prevent rust from forming.

For severe rust, you might need to sand down the affected area and repaint it. In extreme cases, replacement of the rusted parts might be necessary.

Loose Hinges

Loose Hinges

Loose hinges can cause your Leer HF650M to feel unstable and may lead to misalignment issues.

Possible Causes:

  • Normal wear and tear
  • Improper installation
  • Impact damage

How to Fix:

  1. Tighten screws: Check all the screws on the hinges and tighten any that are loose.
  2. Replace worn hardware: If the screws or bolts are stripped or worn, replace them with new ones of the same size and type.
  3. Realign hinges: If the hinges seem misaligned, you may need to loosen them, adjust the alignment, and then retighten.
  4. Lubricate: Apply a small amount of lubricant to the hinge pins to ensure smooth operation.

If the hinges are severely damaged, you might need to replace them entirely. Contact Leer for the correct replacement parts.

Cracked Fiberglass

Cracked Fiberglass

While the Leer HF650M is built to be tough, the fiberglass can sometimes crack due to various reasons.

Possible Causes:

  • Impact damage
  • Extreme temperature changes
  • Overtightening of mounting hardware
  • Manufacturing defects

How to Fix:

  1. Assess the damage: Small cracks might be repairable, but larger ones might require professional help or part replacement.
  2. Clean the area: Use soap and water to clean the cracked area thoroughly.
  3. Apply fiberglass repair kit: For small cracks, you can use a fiberglass repair kit from an auto parts store. Follow the instructions carefully.
  4. Sand and paint: After the repair has cured, sand the area smooth and touch up the paint to match.

For larger cracks or if you’re not comfortable doing the repair yourself, it’s best to consult with a professional or contact Leer for guidance.

Misalignment Issues

Misalignment Issues

A misaligned tonneau cover can cause a host of problems, from difficulty closing to water leaks.

Possible Causes:

  • Improper installation
  • Loose mounting hardware
  • Warped cover due to extreme temperatures
  • Impact damage

How to Fix:

  1. Check mounting clamps: Ensure all mounting clamps are securely fastened and in the correct position.
  2. Adjust rails: If your model has adjustable rails, try loosening them and readjusting for a better fit.
  3. Inspect for damage: Look for any signs of warping or damage that might be causing the misalignment.
  4. Re-center the cover: Sometimes, simply opening the cover fully and re-closing it can help it seat properly.

If you’re having trouble getting the alignment right, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional installer or Leer customer service for guidance.

Broken Gas Struts

Broken Gas Struts

Gas struts help make opening and closing your Leer HF650M easier. When they fail, it can be a real struggle to use your tonneau cover.

Possible Causes:

  • Normal wear and tear
  • Exposure to extreme temperatures
  • Manufacturing defects

How to Fix:

  1. Confirm the problem: If your cover is difficult to open or won’t stay open, the gas struts are likely the culprit.
  2. Purchase replacements: Contact Leer or a reputable auto parts store to get the correct replacement struts.
  3. Remove old struts: Carefully remove the old struts, usually by popping off the end clips.
  4. Install new struts: Attach the new struts in the same orientation as the old ones.

Remember, gas struts typically come in pairs, so it’s often best to replace both at the same time, even if only one has failed.

Rattling Noise

Rattling Noise

A rattling noise from your tonneau cover can be annoying and might indicate a loose component.

Possible Causes:

  • Loose hardware
  • Worn out seals or weatherstripping
  • Debris caught in the cover mechanisms

How to Fix:

  1. Inspect and tighten: Check all visible screws, bolts, and clamps. Tighten any that are loose.
  2. Check weatherstripping: Ensure all weatherstripping is properly seated and not worn out.
  3. Clean thoroughly: Remove the cover if possible and clean out any debris that might be caught in the mechanisms.
  4. Add cushioning: In some cases, adding small pieces of rubber or felt in strategic locations can help reduce rattling.

If you can’t identify the source of the rattle or these steps don’t solve the problem, it might be worth having a professional take a look.

Condensation Buildup

Condensation inside your tonneau cover can lead to mold, mildew, and potential damage to your cargo.

Possible Causes:

  • Temperature differences between inside and outside the cover
  • High humidity
  • Poor ventilation

How to Fix:

  1. Improve ventilation: If your model allows, try to increase airflow by leaving small gaps when possible.
  2. Use desiccants: Place moisture-absorbing products like silica gel packets in your truck bed.
  3. Regular airing out: Open your tonneau cover regularly to allow trapped moisture to escape.
  4. Consider a bed rug: A bed rug can help absorb excess moisture and protect your truck bed.

In extreme cases, you might want to consider adding small vents to your tonneau cover, but be sure to consult with Leer or a professional before making any modifications.

Final Thoughts

The Leer HF650M is a solid tonneau cover option, but like any product, it can have its quirks.

By being aware of these potential issues and knowing how to address them, you can keep your cover in top shape for years to come.

Remember, regular maintenance goes a long way in preventing many of these problems.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to Leer or a professional if you encounter any issues you’re not comfortable tackling on your own.

With proper care and attention, your Leer HF650M can provide reliable protection for your truck bed and everything in it.

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