Buying your first truck is a really exciting thing. You’ve officially opened the doors to a whole new world of possibilities. There’s no telling what you and that four-wheel-drive, bed-bearing, tow-ready rig are about to get into.
That feeling can quickly fade when you realize just how barren trucks are in their factory-fresh form.
While it can be disappointing (and even overwhelming) at first, you shouldn’t let it ruin the excitement of owning a truck. In fact, it should do the opposite, as it means you can start working on setting up your rig exactly the way you like it.
The world of aftermarket truck parts is huge, and there are a million different ways to build one. While it’s up to you to find the combination of parts that best suits your needs, you needn’t be on your own to start. We’re here to talk you through the best upgrades to make as a new truck owner to start your journey off on the right foot.
1. Tonneau Cover
A tonneau cover is the first modification you should make to any truck. As a matter of fact, it’s a bit of a mystery as to why so few trucks come with one from the factory, given how popular they are among owners who often install them right after purchase.
A tonneau cover is simply a protective covering for a truck bed. The primary benefit of adding one is that it shields whatever you’re keeping back there from the elements, such as rain, snow, and sunlight, as well as potential thieves or damage.
Which tonneau cover is right for you depends on a few factors, such as use case, budget, and personal preference. That said, there is no shortage of options to choose from thanks to top brands that offer a variety of different types to suit the many needs of truck owners.
2. Tool Box
Adding a toolbox to your truck bed offers several benefits. First, it’s great for organizing any small cargo you might regularly keep in the bed of your truck. Additionally, toolboxes are typically lockable, enhancing the security of your belongings and protecting them from theft. Most options are also weatherproof, further safeguarding your tools and equipment from the nastier sides of Mother Nature.
When deciding whether to install a toolbox alongside a tonneau cover, it’s essential to consider compatibility and functionality.
For example, a crossover toolbox typically spans the width of the truck bed and installs right behind the cab, “crossing over” from one side of the bed to the other. Not all tonneau covers can accommodate this design, since they also span the width of the truck bed and interact with the space behind the cab.
That’s not to say a crossover tool box is your only option. There are all sorts of tool boxes for truck beds that can be mounted in various positions, including along the siderails, behind the wheel wells, and below a tonneau cover.
3. Bed Mat or Liner
It might be your truck’s greatest selling point, but that bed out back is also one of its greatest weaknesses. Constant use, exposure to the elements, and the rough treatment that comes with hauling can quickly take a toll on the bed’s surface, leading to all sorts of headaches.
This is where investing in a bed mat or drop-in liner can really pay off. Typically made of durable HDPE, bed liners provide a protective barrier between the cargo and the bed’s surface. They absorb impacts and prevent scratches, dents, and other abrasions that can head to rust and corrosion over time.
Full bed liners offer more comprehensive coverage, since they extend to the sidewalls and tailgate, but even a simple rubber bed mat can help stop damage before it happens. Either option will significantly extend the lifespan of your truck bed and help maintain its resale value.
4. Under-Seat Storage
Another area where trucks tend to fall short in their factory configuration is in-cabin storage. Unfortunately, they simply don’t offer much in the way of organizing things. That’s why so many truck interiors look like a hoarder’s closet after time.
While adding a seat-back organizer can help with smaller items (especially if you have kids), that won’t do much for bulky, awkward-shaped items or things you’d like to keep away from prying eyes.
Adding an under-seat storage box to your truck is a great way to avoid this problem. It’s a simple device that makes use of wasted space and can totally transform the way you use your truck’s interior.
Generally made of heavy-duty plastic, these boxes are custom-fit to your truck so they easily install under the rear seat and provide secure storage for all of your essentials. Most designs also come with built-in dividers, bumping up the organization factor.
5. Leveling Kit
Ever notice how new trucks sit funny? The front end sort of sits lower to the ground than the rear, right? Unfortunately, this is the sort of thing that, once you notice it, it’s the only thing you’ll see from then on.
Leveling kits are a quick fix for the issue. These are just a small front-end lift that works to level the front of the truck with the rear. They can be as simple as a set of torsion keys or pucks, or be comprised of aftermarket shocks to boost performance while you’re at it.
The obvious benefit of a leveling kit is an improved aesthetic appeal, but that’s not all they’re good for. They also add clearance for larger tires, which you may need for the next mod…
All-Terrain Tires
Despite their inherent favorability for use in adverse conditions, trucks come from the factory with highway tires. While this may work for traditional commuters, it’s less than ideal for trucks that are used like, well, trucks.
Moving to an all-terrain tire is a must-do for anyone intending to take their truck off-road. Be it for work or play, you’ll need the right tires to maintain proper traction and avoid getting stuck on loose terrain.
Plus, opting for aftermarket oversized tires will not only boost ground clearance – a vital quality for four-wheeling duties – but also look way better on your truck than the factory rubber.
Computer Programmer
A computer programmer is an excellent upgrade to make for any vehicle and can be especially important for trucks. This is because trucks often perform various different jobs on the roadways.
While modern engines are controlled by computers that can make changes on the fly to maintain optimal performance, they are bound by the limits of certain parameters. Those parameters are intended to help the truck perform best under normal driving conditions.
However, the minute you step outside the bounds of “normal” like, say, to tow something or enjoy some off-roading, that factory tune will fail to offer the best performance.
A computer programmer can be used to change the tune as needed to always make sure you get the most out of your truck. It can aid in getting more performance out of other mods too, like a cold air intake or an aftermarket exhaust system. Speaking of which…
Stainless Exhaust System
Trucks are renowned for their reliability, especially in harsh weather conditions, making them go-to vehicles during wintertime. Unfortunately, that means they suffer frequent exposure to corrosive elements and road treatments that can accelerate rusting.
Among the fastest parts to be affected is your exhaust system. Trucks often come with aluminized exhaust systems which are susceptible to rust. To mitigate the issue, many owners upgrade to stainless steel – and if you live in an area that sees rough winters, it’s a modification you should consider too.
Stainless steel offers greater resistance to rust and corrosion, ensuring longevity and durability even in challenging conditions. Plus, as an added benefit, this upgrade will make your truck sound better and can even free up some performance.
Meet UnderCover
Now that you know which upgrades should be top of your list, it’s time to navigate the next crucial decision: Which trusted brands will you turn to?
When it comes to tonneau covers, UnderCover has you covered. Regardless of your budget, style, or needs, the company has something for every truck bed.
A proud Real Truck company (formerly Truck Hero), UnderCover is the #1 selling hard truck bed cover in America. Founded in 1999, the company entered the truck bed market in 2001 with the first truly competitive alternative to the traditional fiberglass cover. Its patented designs and proprietary blends of plastic and polymers ensure unparalleled strength, durability, and security.
Learn more about UnderCover’s great tonneau options and more at https://undercoverinfo.com.