Should I purchase a bed liner for my pickup truck? That’s a question nearly all truck owners will ask themselves at one point or another. Maybe you too are considering getting a truck liner and are wondering whether or not it would be a good investment. If so, McCluskey Chevrolet, a leading auto dealership in Cincinnati, Ohio, has some advice.

Reasons to buy a bed liner

Trucks are meant for hauling things. Unfortunately, this means that the bed of your truck can become dented, scratched, or dinged in the process. Bed liners provide a layer of protection between the item you are hauling and your truck’s surface, ensuring that you do not incur damage.

Truck liners do more than just protect your bed, as it also adds an aesthetic appeal. If you want your truck to get noticed, having an attractive bed liner is just one way of doing so.

A truck bed liner can increase the resale value of your truck. People are willing to pay more for pickups with intact beds, and the fact that you already have a liner means that they will not have to shell out extra money for one.

Spray-on liner

Spray-on liners are made from a substance that is sprayed directly onto the bed and then allowed to dry. According to the dealership, this provides an airtight fit that protects against corrosion and other damage.

Spray-on liners can be custom fitted for your truck, so there is no need to worry about taking measurements or choosing the right size. Even so, they do come with a heftier price tag than other types of bed liners.

Drop-in liners

Drop-in liners are pre-formed in a factory and then inserted into your truck bed. A drop-in liner must be bolted into position, and can leave gaps that might allow water or dirt to enter.

As such, they do not provide the tight seal or custom fit that spray-on liners are known for. A drop-in liner can also shift over time, in which case it could need to be refitted.

The advantage of a drop-in liner is its cost. This type is typically less expensive than a spray-on liner and very easy to install at a dealership.

Miscellaneous liners

Pieces of carpet or rubber can be used as a makeshift bed liner, and will provide you with a custom fit. There are also some aftermarket liners that are made from these two materials. Some people may even choose to make their own liners using 2x4s and plywood.

Any of these liners are very inexpensive options. However, these DIY materials are not as durable and may require replacing sooner. In addition, they may only cover the bottom of your truck bed, leaving the sides and railing fully exposed and vulnerable to damage. When using carpeting, you will also need to ensure that it is fully dry before hauling anything.

Top recommendation

Of the various types of bed liners, McCluskey Chevrolet recommends spray-on liners. In particular, they suggest that a particular brand known as Rhino Lining is a top choice for spray-on bed liners.

They claim that spray-on liners are more durable and well worth their higher price tag. They can be an even greater investment if you have just purchased your truck and plan on keeping it a few years.

Bed liners: yes, it’s worth it

As a truck owner, you do not have to be torn between the idea of using your truck and the possible damage that may result from doing so. A truck bed liner will provide you with maximum protection, and allow you to get the most use possible from your vehicle.