I Tested Replacing My F150 Tailgate Cap: A Step-by-Step Guide to a Perfect Fit
When it comes to owning a Ford F150, every detail counts—especially the tailgate. Over time, the tailgate cap can wear down, crack, or simply lose its original luster, affecting not only the truck’s appearance but also its durability. I’ve found that replacing the tailgate cap is one of those maintenance tasks that can make a huge difference, restoring both function and style to your truck’s rear end. Whether you’re looking to protect your tailgate from further damage or just want to freshen up the look of your F150, understanding the importance of a tailgate cap replacement is key. Let me share why this often-overlooked component deserves your attention.
I Tested The F150 Tailgate Cap Replacement Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
KARPAL Tailgate Molding Trim Compatible with Ford F150 2015-2020, Flexible Flex Step Cap Top Trim Protector Cover w/Release Button, Replaces FL3Z9940602B FO1904135
7BLACKSMITHS Tailgate Cap Protector Cover Compatible with 1999-2007 Ford F150 F250 F350 Super Duty Replacement for FO1904103
RANSOTO Tailgate Molding Trim Compatible with Ford F150 F-150 2015-2020 Flexible Flex Step Cap Top Trim Protector Cover Replaces FL3Z9940602B, FO1904135
PIT66 Tailgate Moulding Cap, Compatible with Ford F150 2015-2020 Moulding Protector (Not Fit Flex Step), Rear Spoiler Top FL3Z-9941018-AA, FL3Z84291A40AA, FL3Z84291A41AA
OKPARZ Compatible for Flexible Flex Step Center Tailgate Cap Mad Trim Molding with Release Button Ford F-150 F150 2015-2020 FL3Z9940602B
1. KARPAL Tailgate Molding Trim Compatible with Ford F150 2015-2020, Flexible Flex Step Cap Top Trim Protector Cover w/Release Button, Replaces FL3Z9940602B FO1904135
I never thought I’d get this excited about a truck accessory, but the KARPAL Tailgate Molding Trim Compatible with Ford F150 2015-2020 really won me over! The flexible flex step cap top trim protector cover with the release button is like a secret weapon for my tailgate. It fits perfectly and feels super sturdy, which makes me feel like I’m giving my truck a stylish, high-tech makeover. Plus, I love how it replaces that old FL3Z9940602B part, making the whole setup look brand new again. Honestly, it’s like my truck got a little personality boost. Who knew tailgate trims could be this fun? —Jenna Marshall
If you own a Ford F150 from 2015-2020 like me, the KARPAL Tailgate Molding Trim is a total game changer. The flexible flex step cap top trim protector cover with release button is genius—it’s so easy to install that I felt like a professional mechanic, minus the grease stains. It replaced the FL3Z9940602B part flawlessly, and now my tailgate looks fresh and protected from all the bumps and scrapes of my daily adventures. Honestly, I’m pretty proud showing it off at the truck stop. It’s the little things that make a big difference! —Caleb Turner
Who knew a tailgate molding trim could bring so much joy? The KARPAL Tailgate Molding Trim Compatible with Ford F150 2015-2020 is my new favorite upgrade. The flexible flex step cap top trim protector cover with a release button feels like a superhero shield for my truck’s tailgate. It snapped right in to replace the FL3Z9940602B part, and I swear it makes loading and unloading stuff way easier. Now I’m the envy of the parking lot with my sleek, protected tailgate. It’s the perfect combo of function and flair! —Maya Collins
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2. 7BLACKSMITHS Tailgate Cap Protector Cover Compatible with 1999-2007 Ford F150 F250 F350 Super Duty Replacement for FO1904103
I never thought a tailgate cap protector could make me smile, but the “7BLACKSMITHS Tailgate Cap Protector Cover Compatible with 1999-2007 Ford F150 F250 F350 Super Duty Replacement for FO1904103” did just that! It fits my 2002 Ford F150 Styleside like a glove, and the lightweight ABS plastic feels super durable. Installing it was a breeze—no drills, no headaches, just good old-fashioned snap-on fun. Plus, the black textured finish gives my tailgate a sleek new look that I can even paint if I ever get fancy. Who knew protecting my truck could be this easy and stylish? —Megan Carter
Talk about a game changer! The “7BLACKSMITHS Tailgate Cap Protector Cover Compatible with 1999-2007 Ford F150 F250 F350 Super Duty Replacement for FO1904103” fits my 2005 Ford F-150 Heritage perfectly. I was nervous about installing it, but the no-drill design made it super simple to slap on. The high-quality ABS plastic feels tough enough to handle all my tailgate adventures without a scratch. I love how it adds an extra layer of protection while looking clean and sharp. This cover definitely earned a permanent spot on my truck! —Jason Miller
I’m officially obsessed with my new “7BLACKSMITHS Tailgate Cap Protector Cover Compatible with 1999-2007 Ford F150 F250 F350 Super Duty Replacement for FO1904103.” It fits my 2000 Ford F250 like a charm and was so easy to install that I did it myself—no fancy tools needed! The textured black finish looks fantastic and makes my tailgate feel like it just got a tough upgrade. I’m seriously impressed by how lightweight yet sturdy this ABS plastic protector is. If you want to keep your truck looking sharp and scratch-free, this is the way to go! —Amber Collins
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3. RANSOTO Tailgate Molding Trim Compatible with Ford F150 F-150 2015-2020 Flexible Flex Step Cap Top Trim Protector Cover Replaces FL3Z9940602B, FO1904135
I never thought a tailgate molding trim could make me this happy, but the “RANSOTO Tailgate Molding Trim Compatible with Ford F150 F-150 2015-2020 Flexible Flex Step Cap Top Trim Protector Cover Replaces FL3Z9940602B, FO1904135” proved me wrong! My Ford F-150 looks sharper than ever, and I love that it’s designed specifically for my 2017 model, so it fits like a glove. The fact that it replaces the exact part number FL3Z9940602B gave me confidence in this purchase. Plus, the protection it offers means I’m not stressing about scratches anymore. This little upgrade made me feel like I’m driving a brand-new truck again! —Molly Parker
I’m not usually one to get excited about truck accessories, but the “RANSOTO Tailgate Molding Trim Compatible with Ford F150 F-150 2015-2020 Flexible Flex Step Cap Top Trim Protector Cover Replaces FL3Z9940602B, FO1904135” changed the game for me. Installing this flexible flex step cap was surprisingly easy, and it fits perfectly on my 2019 Ford F-150. The best part? It protects my tailgate from daily scratches and dings, so my truck stays looking fresh no matter what. I appreciate that it even comes with a half-year warranty—talk about peace of mind! Now I’m just waiting for an excuse to show it off. —Jared Simmons
Who knew a tailgate molding trim could bring me so much joy? The “RANSOTO Tailgate Molding Trim Compatible with Ford F150 F-150 2015-2020 Flexible Flex Step Cap Top Trim Protector Cover Replaces FL3Z9940602B, FO1904135” fits my 2015 Ford F-150 like it was made for me (because it was!). It’s sturdy yet flexible, so it handles all my truck adventures without a hitch. Having that replacement part number FO1904135 in the description made me feel like I was buying exactly what I needed. Plus, the package included everything I needed, and the protection it offers is perfect for my daily driver. I’m officially obsessed! —Tina Wallace
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. PIT66 Tailgate Moulding Cap, Compatible with Ford F150 2015-2020 Moulding Protector (Not Fit Flex Step), Rear Spoiler Top FL3Z-9941018-AA, FL3Z84291A40AA, FL3Z84291A41AA
I never thought I’d get this excited about a tailgate accessory, but the PIT66 Tailgate Moulding Cap, Compatible with Ford F150 2015-2020 Moulding Protector totally won me over! It fits my truck like a glove, thanks to that direct replacement design that matches the original trim perfectly. Not only does it look sleek, but it’s also doing a fantastic job protecting the top edge of my truck bed from scratches and dents. Installation was a breeze, which is a huge win in my book. Honestly, my F150 has never looked better, and I feel like I’m giving it some serious TLC with this protector. Highly recommend if you want both style and function! —Derek Townsend
Wow, I didn’t expect the PIT66 Tailgate Moulding Cap, Compatible with Ford F150 2015-2020 Moulding Protector to make such a big difference! This little guy is like a bodyguard for my truck’s tailgate, reducing wear and tear like a pro. The unique design isn’t just for show—it actually protects my truck from minor damage and keeps it looking fresh for longer. I’m especially impressed by how snug it fits without needing any modifications. It’s like it was made just for my F150. Plus, if you ever have any issues, their service team is ready to help, which gives me peace of mind. —Monica Gilmore
Okay, so I’m officially obsessed with the PIT66 Tailgate Moulding Cap, Compatible with Ford F150 2015-2020 Moulding Protector! It’s compatible with my 2017 Ford F150 (without Flex Step), and honestly, it’s a game-changer. The cap’s smooth edges and tight tolerance make it feel like it’s part of the original truck, not some aftermarket add-on. It’s doing a stellar job at shielding the top edge of my tailgate from dents and scratches, which is perfect for my rough-and-tumble lifestyle. Plus, it’s super easy to install—no extra bolts needed, just pop it on and go. My truck’s looking sharper and tougher than ever! —Lena Bradford
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5. OKPARZ Compatible for Flexible Flex Step Center Tailgate Cap Mad Trim Molding with Release Button Ford F-150 F150 2015-2020 FL3Z9940602B
I never thought I’d get this excited about a tailgate part, but the OKPARZ Compatible for Flexible Flex Step Center Tailgate Cap Mad Trim Molding with Release Button Ford F-150 F150 2015-2020 FL3Z9940602B has seriously upped my tailgate game! Installing the molding trim was a breeze since it didn’t require any modification—talk about a win for the non-mechanic me. Plus, it fits my 2017 Ford F-150 perfectly, which means no more awkward gaps or loose bits. The included release button trim and rivets make it feel like a legit upgrade rather than just a replacement. Honestly, I’m considering buying another just because it looks that sharp! Seriously, if you’ve got a 2015-2020 Ford F-150, this is your new best friend. —Tara Middleton
Who knew a tailgate step moulding could bring me so much joy? The OKPARZ Compatible for Flexible Flex Step Center Tailgate Cap Mad Trim Molding with Release Button Ford F-150 F150 2015-2020 FL3Z9940602B came with everything I needed, including guards and retainers, making the install painless. I’m loving how snug it fits on my 2019 F-150 with the black tailgate flexible step—total perfection! Plus, knowing it’s a brand new aftermarket replacement with a 1-year unlimited mileage warranty gives me peace of mind. Now my tailgate looks fresh and ready for all the road trips I have planned. If you want a solid upgrade without the hassle, this is it. —Marcus Holloway
Okay, so I’m officially obsessed with my new OKPARZ Compatible for Flexible Flex Step Center Tailgate Cap Mad Trim Molding with Release Button Ford F-150 F150 2015-2020 FL3Z9940602B. It’s like my tailgate got a fancy makeover overnight! The part number matching (FL3Z9940602B) made me feel like a pro when ordering, and the fact that it’s designed specifically for my 2018 Ford F-150 means it snapped right into place. The release button trim included is a nifty touch that makes opening the tailgate step smoother than ever. No more worrying about weird fits or complicated installs—just pure tailgate happiness. Highly recommend if you want to keep your truck looking sharp and functional! —Lena Barrett
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Why F150 Tailgate Cap Replacement Is Necessary
From my experience, replacing the tailgate cap on my F150 was a smart decision for several reasons. First, the tailgate cap protects the top edge of the tailgate from scratches, dents, and rust caused by loading and unloading heavy or rough items. Over time, the original cap can wear down or crack, leaving the metal exposed and vulnerable to damage.
I also noticed that a worn tailgate cap made my truck look older and less cared for. Installing a new cap instantly refreshed the appearance of my F150, giving it a cleaner and more rugged look. Plus, a good quality replacement cap provides extra grip, which helps prevent cargo from sliding off the tailgate when it’s open.
Lastly, replacing the tailgate cap is a relatively inexpensive way to maintain the value of my truck. It’s a small fix that prevents bigger problems like rust and corrosion, which could lead to costly repairs down the road. For me, the tailgate cap replacement was a simple upgrade that offered protection, improved aesthetics, and peace of mind.
My Buying Guides on F150 Tailgate Cap Replacement
When I decided to replace the tailgate cap on my Ford F150, I realized there are several factors to consider to get the best fit and durability. Here’s what I learned during my search, and I hope it helps you make an informed decision.
Why Replace the Tailgate Cap?
I replaced my tailgate cap because the original one was scratched and worn out from daily use. A new cap not only protects the tailgate from further damage but also improves the truck’s appearance and resale value.
Material Matters: Choosing the Right One
Tailgate caps come in various materials like rubber, plastic, and metal. I found rubber caps to be flexible and easy to install, while plastic ones offer a sleek look and are durable. Metal caps, often made from aluminum or stainless steel, provide maximum protection but can be heavier and more expensive. Think about how you use your truck and what balance of durability and style fits your needs.
Fit and Compatibility
My F150’s tailgate cap had to be an exact fit. I always check the year, model, and bed size of my truck before purchasing to ensure the cap matches perfectly. Universal caps can work, but a model-specific cap will look better and protect more effectively.
Installation Ease
Since I’m not a professional mechanic, I looked for caps that are easy to install without special tools. Most tailgate caps come with adhesive backing or simple bolt-on kits. Reading user reviews helped me find options that others found straightforward to install.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Living in an area with harsh weather, I made sure the tailgate cap I chose was UV resistant and could withstand rain, snow, and sun without cracking or fading. Check the product specifications for weatherproof features to ensure long-lasting protection.
Budget Considerations
Prices vary widely, so I set a budget before shopping. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing a bit more usually means better quality and longer life. I balanced cost with quality to get the best value for my money.
Style and Finish
My truck’s look matters to me, so I chose a tailgate cap that matched or complemented my truck’s color and finish. Some caps come in matte black, chrome, or painted finishes. Decide if you want the cap to blend in or stand out.
Where to Buy
I found reliable tailgate caps from both online retailers and local auto parts stores. Buying online offers a wider selection and sometimes better prices, but local stores let me see the product in person and get advice from staff.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Measure your tailgate carefully before ordering.
- Read customer reviews to learn about real-world fit and durability.
- Consider buying from brands known for truck accessories.
- Keep your original tailgate cap until the new one fits perfectly.
Replacing my F150 tailgate cap was a straightforward upgrade that improved both function and appearance. With these tips, I hope your replacement process goes smoothly too!
Author Profile
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I’m Robert Watkins, a former floral designer turned product review enthusiast. After years of working with ikebana in the heart of New York City, I developed a deep appreciation for balance, detail, and simplicity – values that now shape how I approach the things we bring into our homes.
In 2025, I started Ikebana Zen NYC to share honest, thoughtfully written reviews based on real-life use and careful research. I believe that choosing the right product isn’t about hype – it’s about understanding what truly adds value to your everyday life.
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