What the tabs do and why they wear out

The tabs on a BakFlip G2 are the plastic or rubber pieces that hold the tonneau cover panels in place as they fold. They sit on the rails that run along the sides of your truck bed and keep the cover aligned as you open and close it. Over time — usually after two to five years of regular use — these tabs crack, split, or wear flat from the constant friction of the panels sliding across them.

When tabs fail, the cover no longer stays centered on the bed. You'll notice the panels rubbing against the truck bed sides, the cover sitting crooked, or gaps appearing between panels. Replacing them is straightforward and takes about 30 minutes per side.

Key Takeaways

  • BakFlip G2 tabs are plastic or rubber guides that sit on the side rails and keep panels aligned as they fold.
  • You need to order replacement tabs directly from BAK Industries or an authorized dealer — they are not a universal part.
  • Removal requires only a screwdriver or hex wrench to unbolt the old tabs; installation uses the same bolt holes.
  • The job takes about 30 minutes per side and requires no special tools beyond what you likely have in your garage.

Ordering the correct replacement tabs

Tabs are not sold as a single universal part. You need to order them from BAK Industries, the manufacturer of BakFlip covers, or from an authorized dealer. When you contact them, have your truck's year, make, and bed length ready — the tabs are sized to match your specific truck bed width.

You can reach BAK Industries through their website or by phone. They will ask for your truck information and confirm whether you need driver-side tabs, passenger-side tabs, or both. A full set of replacement tabs for one side typically costs between $30 and $60, depending on your truck model. Shipping usually takes five to ten business days.

If you want to avoid waiting, some truck accessory shops that stock BakFlip covers may have tabs in inventory. Call ahead to confirm they have the correct size for your truck before driving there.

Removing the old tabs

Park your truck on level ground and open the tonneau cover fully so the panels are flat against the truck bed. Locate the tabs on the side rail — they run the length of the bed, usually mounted every 12 to 18 inches.

Each tab is bolted to the rail with one or two bolts. Use a socket wrench or hex wrench to remove these bolts. Keep the bolts in a small container so you don't lose them — you'll reuse them for the new tabs. Once all bolts are out, slide the old tab off the rail. If it's stuck from dirt or corrosion, gently tap it with a rubber mallet to loosen it.

Repeat this process for every tab on that side of the truck. If you're replacing tabs on both sides, do one side completely before moving to the other.

Installing the new tabs

Before you install the new tabs, wipe down the rail with a dry cloth to remove any dirt, rust, or debris. This ensures the new tabs sit flush against the rail and slide smoothly.

Slide the first new tab onto the rail, aligning it with the bolt holes. Insert the bolts through the tab and into the rail. Tighten them by hand first, then use your socket wrench or hex wrench to snug them down. Do not over-tighten — you want them firm enough that the tab won't move, but not so tight that you crack the plastic.

Continue along the rail, installing each tab in the same way. Space them evenly to match the spacing of the old tabs. Once all tabs on one side are installed, open and close the tonneau cover a few times to make sure the panels slide smoothly without rubbing or binding.

Testing the cover after replacement

Open the cover fully and check that all panels lie flat against the bed without twisting or tilting. Close it slowly and listen for any scraping or grinding sounds, which would indicate a tab is misaligned. If you hear noise, stop and check that tab's bolts — they may need to be repositioned slightly along the rail.

Run your hand along the seams between panels. They should be even and consistent all the way across the bed. If one side is higher or lower than the other, loosen the bolts on that tab slightly, adjust its position, and retighten.

Once everything runs smoothly, repeat the process on the other side if needed. The entire job, including both sides, usually takes one to two hours.

Preventing premature tab wear

Tabs last longer when the cover is kept clean. Dirt and sand trapped between the panel and the rail create friction that wears tabs faster. Rinse the cover and rails with a garden hose every month or two, especially if your truck sits outside.

Avoid forcing the cover open or closed. If it feels stiff, stop and check for debris in the rails before pushing harder. Forcing a stuck cover puts extra stress on the tabs and can crack them.

If you live in a very hot climate, the plastic tabs may become slightly softer in direct sun. Parking in shade when possible helps them maintain their shape longer.

When to replace tabs on both sides at once

If only one side is worn, you can replace just that side. However, if both sides show cracks or wear, replace both at the same time. Mismatched tabs — one old and one new — can cause the cover to sit unevenly, which puts extra stress on the newer tabs and shortens their lifespan.

Check both sides before you order. If the passenger side looks worn but the driver side still looks solid, you can wait and replace the driver side later. But if both are visibly cracked or flattened, order a full set and do both sides in one job.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use tabs from a different BakFlip model on my G2?

No. Tabs are model-specific and sized to fit the G2's rail system. Using tabs from a different model will not align correctly and may damage the cover or rails. Always order tabs designed for the BakFlip G2.

What if I can't find the bolt holes on my old tabs?

The bolt holes are usually on the underside of the tab where it contacts the rail. If the tab is cracked or broken, you may need to remove it in pieces. Once it's off, the bolt holes in the rail itself will be visible, and you can use those to install the new tab.

Do I need to remove the tonneau cover from the truck to replace tabs?

No. You can replace tabs with the cover installed on the truck. straightforward open it fully and work on one side at a time. Removing the entire cover is not necessary and would make the job harder.

How tight should the bolts be?

Tight enough that the tab does not move or wiggle when you push on it, but not so tight that you crack the plastic. If you're using a socket wrench, stop when you feel firm resistance. You should not need to strain or use your full body weight to tighten them.

Will replacing tabs affect my warranty?

Tabs are a wear item and are not usually covered under the tonneau cover warranty. Replacing them yourself does not void the warranty on other parts of the cover. If your cover is still under warranty and the tabs failed prematurely, contact BAK Industries to ask whether they will cover the replacement.