2014 GMC Canyon
Bed Covers

The Canyon Gap Year: What It Means for Truck Owners

The year 2014 marks the second consecutive year without Canyon production. While this might seem concerning to first-generation owners, the reality is quite positive. Behind the scenes, General Motors was putting the finishing touches on what would become a dramatically improved second-generation Canyon. For existing owners, the production pause changed nothing about their ability to accessorize, maintain, and protect their trucks with quality tonneau covers.

By 2014, many first-generation Canyons have been on the road for years, with early models approaching the decade mark. These trucks have proven themselves as durable, capable mid-size pickups, and their owners know the value of proper upkeep. A tonneau cover stands as one of the most impactful accessories you can add to an aging truck, combining practical cargo protection with meaningful fuel economy improvements and enhanced vehicle preservation.

For truck enthusiasts watching the market closely, 2014 also brought exciting news: GMC officially confirmed the return of the Canyon as an entirely new model for 2015. The upcoming truck would feature new engines, a redesigned cab and bed, modern technology, and premium features that would position the Canyon as a genuine alternative to full-size trucks rather than a compromise. This development excited the mid-size truck market and confirmed GMC's commitment to the segment.

Bed Cover Options for Current Canyon Owners

If you own a first-generation Canyon built between 2004 and 2012, your tonneau cover options remain as broad and accessible as ever. The aftermarket for these trucks is well-established, mature, and competitively priced.

Hard Folding Systems

Hard folding tonneau covers continue to be the most popular choice among first-generation Canyon owners. Their combination of security, weather protection, and ease of use makes them ideal for trucks that serve dual roles as daily drivers and weekend haulers. Aluminum panel construction with integrated drainage channels keeps cargo dry even in sustained downpours. Browse our full range of hard bed covers for the Canyon.

Budget-Friendly Soft Covers

For Canyon owners who want basic protection without a significant investment, soft roll-up and tri-fold covers deliver excellent value. Marine-grade vinyl construction sheds rain and snow effectively, while the lightweight design adds minimal weight to the truck. Installation takes less than twenty minutes, and the covers can be completely removed in even less time when you need the full open bed for large loads.

Premium Retractable Options

Owners who use their Canyon's bed multiple times per day appreciate the convenience of retractable tonneau covers. One-hand operation, lockable at any position, and a flush-mount profile make retractable covers the most convenient option available. The aluminum-slat construction provides hard-cover security with roll-up convenience, though at a premium price point compared to other cover types.

First-Generation Canyon Bed Dimensions

Whether your Canyon was built in 2004 or 2012, the bed dimensions have remained constant throughout the entire first-generation production run.

Preparing Your Truck for a Cover After Years of Ownership

By 2014, even the newest first-generation Canyon (a 2012 model) is at least two years old, and early models could be approaching their tenth anniversary. Installing a tonneau cover at this point in the truck's life is still worthwhile, but a few preparation steps ensure optimal results.

• ✓ Evaluate the bed condition: Look underneath the truck at the bed floor from below. Check for rust perforation, especially near the wheel wells and along the edges. Surface rust is manageable, but holes in the bed floor should be addressed before installing a cover, as trapped moisture beneath the cover could accelerate further damage.
• ✓ Replace worn tailgate seals: The rubber gasket along the top edge of the tailgate often deteriorates after years of UV exposure and repeated opening and closing. A fresh tailgate seal improves the watertight performance of any tonneau cover and is an inexpensive replacement part available at any auto parts store.
• ✓ Clean and treat the bed rails: Years of dirt accumulation, minor rust, and old adhesive residue from previous accessories can compromise clamp grip. A thorough cleaning with a wire brush followed by a rust-converting primer creates an ideal mounting surface for your new cover.
• ✓ Check tailgate cable tension: Tailgate support cables stretch over time, causing the tailgate to drop past horizontal when opened. This can affect how the rear edge of the tonneau cover seals. Replacing stretched cables restores proper tailgate position and improves cover performance.

Looking Ahead: The All-New 2015 Canyon

While we help first-generation owners find the right covers for their existing trucks, it is worth noting what is coming next for the Canyon nameplate. The 2015 GMC Canyon will debut as a complete ground-up redesign featuring new engines, modern technology, and a refined design that elevates the mid-size truck segment. Key highlights include a V6 engine option, an available Duramax diesel, and updated bed dimensions.

Critical note for existing owners: first-generation tonneau covers (2004-2012) will not fit the new 2015 Canyon due to completely different bed dimensions and rail profiles. If you are considering upgrading to the new truck, you will need a second-generation specific cover. Visit our 2015 Canyon bed cover guide when you are ready to explore options for the new model.

Why Invest in Your First-Gen Canyon Now

Whether you are maintaining your first-generation Canyon or preparing to welcome the new 2015 model, the right tonneau cover makes a meaningful difference. Review the 2013 Canyon bed cover guide for additional first-gen advice, or jump ahead to learn about the all-new 2015 Canyon and its cover options.