Prepare your truck for every season with our guide to essential all-weather accessories.
Nothing undermines a truck like struggling in harsh weather. Getting stuck on the trail is a testament to trying – and often a signal it’s time for some upgraded accessories. But slipping around in the rain or digging through a snow-covered truck bed? You may start questioning why you even bought the thing in the first place.
The truth is a truck can only do so much on its own. Although the aftermarket has helped boost the pickup’s reputation as a do-anything, go-anywhere machine, it’s just a blank slate if not set up with the right gear. Snow, slush, ice, rain – and yes, even sunshine – can all push the limits of trucks in their natural state. So, check out the 8 top accessories your truck needs to stay in fighting form, no matter the weather.
1. Nerf Bars and Running Boards
Nerf bars and running boards are among the most useful upgrades you can make to a truck, period. The lower step makes it easier to climb into a vehicle – a feature greatly appreciated by anyone, especially if the truck's been lifted and is sitting on oversized tires – while the extra grip offered by the stepping pad keeps passengers from slipping during traction-impeding weather conditions. Additionally, side steps offer a great lower pad to knock debris off your boots prior to swinging them into your rig, keeping the interior free of slush and muck.
2. Truck Tool Box
If you use your truck to make a living, then the value of a truck tool box can't be overstated. As opposed to just tossing your tools in the back seat or the bed where they end up scattered, you can organize them all into a weather-proof box that's easily accessible. Not only will this minimize the amount of time you're standing in the rain or cold looking for the tools you need, but it will also keep them safe and dry, ensuring longer service life.
Truck tool boxes come in many shapes and sizes, and you shouldn't think solely of a crossover box in this department. You can get chests and even swing-out cases to store your gear. If you really want to take things to the next level, consider adding a bed drawer system as it offers protection for larger tools that won't fit in the aforementioned boxes.
3. Tonneau Cover
A tonneau cover is another excellent upgrade anyone can make to their truck to protect cargo and accessories from the elements. These simple covers roll, fold, or even retract over the top of the bed, giving instant protection from the elements and extra security against thieves. Even a soft vinyl cover will work wonders, as the visual barrier is enough to deter would-be criminals and adequately seals the bed from moisture.
The great thing about tonneau covers is that there's something available in every price range, making them an excellent option for all truck owners. They're also very easy to install, further boosting their mass appeal.
4. Truck Caps (and Accessories)
Truck caps are a fantastic alternative to tonneau covers if you've got a little extra money to spend. The high-roof protection is incredibly handy for larger cargo and can even turn your bed into a shelter if you're overlanding throughout the year.
An added benefit of some caps is that it opens the roof up to a wider range of overhead storage options than are previously available to a pickup truck. And if you opt for something top of the line, like a Smart Cap from RSi, you can really up the ante on versatility. The product’s modular construction allows for more storage solutions that are perfect for year-round protection of your equipment.
5. Steering Stabilizers
A steering stabilizer might seem a bit out of place, but it's certainly one of the best accessories you can add to up the functionality of your truck for year-round, all-weather performance. While suspension upgrades and oversized tires might steal the show, a steering stabilizer is the ultimate line of defense to ensure you're getting the most out of those mods if they’re already in place.
As the name implies, these parts are installed to stabilize the truck’s steering. They'll maximize control over the vehicle by dampening harsh feedback that can compromise handling. They can be real life savers in any situation, but are especially important when poor weather conditions are working against you.
6. All-Terrain Tires
No other upgrade will do as much for your truck as a proper set of all-terrain tires. Trucks are used on all sorts of terrain, including asphalt, mud, gravel, dirt, and more. Naturally, all-terrain tires are the perfect match.
What you might not know, however, is that A/Ts can also be rated to handle snow. You will need to look for the triple-peak snowflake stamp of approval to ensure it, and when you do, these tires will keep your truck rolling no matter where you are or what time of year it is.
7. Brakes
Before we go any further, let's circle back to the last entry. Efficient braking relies heavily on good tires, thanks to the enhanced traction they provide. So, in certain situations, difficulty stopping may be due to tire performance rather than brake issues. Additionally, other aftermarket mods (like lift kits, heavy steel bumper upgrades, and bed racks) can cause your truck’s brakes to work harder on account of the added weight.
Fortunately, you don't need to move to a big brake kit to rectify the issue. Simply opting for aftermarket brake pads and rotors designed to withstand the additional stress can ensure your truck rolls safely in any condition throughout the year.
8. Lighting
Poor weather conditions are as hard on visibility as they are on traction. Luckily for you, there's no shortage of lighting solutions to add to your truck.
If you want to go all out, you can set that truck up with light bars from top to bottom. But if you'd rather have something a little more practical for the roads (and a little less aggravating to the law), you can add upgraded housings and bulbs to the factory locations, with properly placed auxiliary fog lights to boost on-road visibility when heavy rain, fog, or snow set in.
Of course, those of you making a paycheck in snowy conditions will also need auxiliary lighting. The same cube lights and light bars used on off-road vehicles can help drivers see better as they plow, while warning lights make other motorists aware of their location to boost safety.