If you own a 2013 Ram 1500, you know it’s a truck built for work and play. However, to truly maximize its potential and protect your cargo, investing in a high-quality 2013 Ram 1500 tonneau cover is one of the best upgrades you can make. Whether you’re looking to improve aerodynamics, secure your tools, or give your truck a sleek, finished look, a tonneau cover is essential.
However, with various bed sizes and unique features like the RamBox system, finding the right fit for your specific 2013 Ram 1500 requires a bit of knowledge. This guide breaks down your options, from soft roll-ups to heavy-duty hard folding covers, helping you make the best choice for your truck and budget.
Why Your 2013 Ram 1500 Needs a Tonneau Cover
Before diving into the types, it’s important to understand the value a cover brings. First and foremost, it provides security. A lockable cover keeps your valuables out of sight and out of mind for potential thieves. It also protects your gear from snow, rain, and UV rays. Many covers come with weather-resistant seals to keep the bed dry.
In addition, a tonneau cover can enhance your truck’s fuel efficiency by lowering aerodynamic drag. Finally, it simply makes your 2013 Ram 1500 look sharper, giving it a clean, finished profile.
Key Consideration: Bed Type and RamBox Compatibilityu
The 2013 Ram 1500 is available with different bed lengths, most commonly the 5.7-foot and 6.4-foot beds. However, the most critical factor in your purchase is whether your truck is equipped with the RamBox cargo management system. These are the integrated storage bins built into the bed rails.
A standard bed cover will not fit a truck with RamBoxes. It is important to specifically search for a cover that is made for the “2013 Ram 1500 with RamBox” model. These covers are designed to sit flush with the bed rails while leaving the RamBox lids accessible to open and close freely. Always verify this before purchasing.
Top Tonneau Cover Styles for the 2013 Ram 1500
Here are the most popular types of covers available, ranging from budget-friendly to premium.
Soft Roll-Up Covers: The Classic Choice
Soft roll-up covers are a popular and affordable option for the 2013 Ram 1500. Constructed from premium vinyl or fabric, they feature a low-profile design. The primary benefit is full bed access; when you need to haul something large, you can simply roll the cover up against the cab.
- Installation: Most install in minutes with clamps and require no drilling.
- Best For: Owners wanting an affordable, easy-to-use cover for everyday weather protection.
- Price Range: Typically, the most cost-effective option is available.
Hard Folding Covers: Maximum Security
If security is your top priority, a hard folding cover is the way to go. These covers are made from heavy-duty aluminum or fiberglass-reinforced composite panels. They sit nearly flush with the bed rails for a sleek look and are tough enough to resist break-ins that would slice through a soft cover. The UnderCover Flex, for example, features an ultra-low profile design and can support up to 400 lbs of evenly distributed weight.
- Installation: Typically clamp onto the bed rails; no drilling required.
- Best For: Owners who need to secure expensive tools or gear and want a premium look.
- Price Range: Mid-range to high-end. Painted options to match your truck’s color are available from brands like A.R.E..
Hard Roll-Up Covers: The Best of Both Worlds
Hard roll-up covers, like the BAK Revolver series, combine the durability of aluminum slats with the convenience of a soft roll-up. They feature aluminum slats covered in marine-grade vinyl. This gives you the security of a hard cover (resistant to cutting) with the ability to roll up completely for full bed access.
- Installation: No-drill installation with a flush mount.
- Best For: Those who want hardcover security but don’t want to lose bed access to a folded stack blocking the rear window.
- Price Range: Mid-range to high-end.
One-Piece and Retractable Covers
For a truly unique look, Mopar offered a painted one-piece cover for the 2013 model, which lifts open with gas struts. On the higher end, retractable hard covers are also available. These roll up into a canister at the front of the bed, often featuring T-slot rails for mounting racks. These are premium options that offer excellent security and style but come at a higher price point and sacrifice a small amount of bed space for the canister.
Quick Comparison: Soft vs. Hard
Feature Soft Tonneau Cover Hard Tonneau Cover
Security Basic; vulnerable to knives. High; slash-resistant panels.
Bed Access Full access when rolled up. Full access when folded; folded panels may block rear window.
Weight Capacity None (do not walk on). Often supports 300-400 lbs.
Fuel Economy Good improvement. Excellent improvement due to rigid aero.
Price $300 – $800. $800 – $1,500+.
Making the Right Choice for Your Ram
To summarize, here is how to choose the best 2013 Ram 1500 tonneau cover for your needs:
- Check your bed: Measure your bed length (5.7′ or 6.4′) and, most importantly, confirm if you have RamBox.
- Define your budget: Soft covers are cheapest, while hard folding and retractable covers are premium investments.
- Assess your needs: Do you need to lock up expensive tools? Go hard. Do you just need to keep groceries dry? Go soft.
- Consider usage: If you frequently haul large items, a roll-up (soft or hard) might be more convenient than a tri-fold that stacks up.
Whether you choose a Mopar authentic accessory for a perfect factory fit or an aftermarket brand like BAK or UnderCover for specific features, adding a tonneau cover will transform the utility and appearance of your 2013 Ram 1500.
