May 4, 2024
Rhonium – Car & Truck Style + Performance

Useful Exterior Upgrades by Putco

17 min read December 19, 2022 Roger Craig
Putco Venture Tec Rack for Jeep Gladiator with Tonneau Cover

There are many exterior upgrades and accessories that, depending on your vehicle and usual driving style, significantly improve different aspects of how you use your car, and how it performs on the road. Some accessories provide additional features to the car, for example, expand cargo space, while others add external protection or just grant some stylistic points.

Today we’ll introduce you to Putco, an amazing company that has been manufacturing high-quality vehicle accessories and upgrades for almost fifty years. This is a truly American company with a huge, high-end facility located in Iowa, where the professional multi-talented staff researches, designs, and manufactures the products demanded throughout the USA. 

Putco HD Elevated Crossrails for TEC Rails 3
Putco HD Elevated Crossrails for TEC Rails

Trim Products by Putco: Impressive Exterior Customization

To help vehicle owners create their own style and represent the character and feel they want, Putco releases a wide range of trim products. These products can be either universal or versatile, meaning compatible with different vehicle makes and models, as well as specific for some vehicle manufacturers. For example, logos, emblems, and letter kits are often released as vehicle specific. Putco supports the most popular modern car manufacturers like Ford, GMC, Chevy, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Hyundai, Dodge, KIA, Jeep, Toyota, and so on. 

Let’s review some universal trim products by Putco that will significantly improve the exterior design of your beloved car. 

Putco Hood Shields: Protection Against Debris and Bugs

One of the most popular trim products among vehicle customization enthusiasts is a hood shield. It reduces the number of bug spots on the windshield and protects it from some road debris, minimizing the risk of damage. Apart from useful features, hood shields also look good at the front of the vehicle, adding confidence and street-style points. 

Putco offers a wide range of durable and reliable hood shields that look good and serve their purpose to the maximum. 

Putco Element Chrome Shield
  • Chrome Hood Shields from Putco Element Series are manufactured from ABS with Cass Chrome Plating, this construction makes them highly resistant to elements and deterioration. The special design in this model allows the airflow to go around your vehicle, which in turn leads away the bugs, dirt, and small debris. 
  • Tinted Hood Shields from Putco Element Series are manufactured using polycarbonate injection-molding technology which ensures consistent color, structure, and durability. This model offers an immaculate design that fits any vehicle make and model.

Fender Trim Kits by Putco

Fender Trim Kits by Putco serve as an additional layer of protection in the area of the wheels against debris that can scratch your vehicle’s paint. More than that, Fender Trims look amazing for any vehicle type, from off-road to business class. Putco offers versatile Fender Trim Kit models that will match any vehicle and protect the finish layer from little debris damage. 

  • GM Licensed Stainless Steel Fender Trim Kits by Putco are manufactured from top-quality Stainless Steel of 304 grade. This durable and resilient material has a polished finish which creates an amazing visual style. Two configurations are available: half-wheel coverage and full-wheel coverage. Configurations are available depending on your vehicle’s make and model. 
  • Another amazing model is Black Stainless Steel Fender Trims covered with a highly durable black finish layered on the product using Chemical Vapor Deposition. This technology ensures that Fender Trims will look as good as new even after years of service. A high-quality finish connected with strong 304 Stainless Steel protects Fender Trims well against rust and scratches, while the Trims themselves will protect the door area of your car against debris.

Window Deflectors from Putco Elements Series

Sometimes you have to open the window slightly to get a breath of fresh air, but there’s rain outside and you’re afraid to get water inside your car. Window Deflectors are amazing at protecting passengers from rain, cold wind, and debris. Here are Window Deflectors released by Putco.

  • Chrome Window Deflectors from the Putco Elements Series offer high-quality construction from ABS that went through polycarbonate injection-molding technology, and a classy look. These Putco Window Deflectors are resilient against elements, temperature changes, and UV rays, and durable enough to withstand physical damage. The deflectors are designed as precise fitments for different vehicle makes and models, and they reduce wind noise to a minimum. 
  • Matte Black Window Deflectors from the Putco Elements Series offer high-class design and finish, durable construction just like in the previous model, high durability rating against UV rays, scratches, and temperature changes, and pretty good noise reduction capabilities. No wind, water, or dust will get into your car with the window slightly open. 
  • Tinted Window Deflectors from the Putco Elements Series offer the same features as the abovementioned model while having a transparent, tinted design that looks amazing on business or family cars, pickup trucks, and so on. 

Door Sill Plates by Putco

Door Sill areas are probably one of the most vulnerable parts of a vehicle’s interior due to how much people rely on them while getting in the car. This means a lot of scratches from boots and rust due to exposure to elements and moisture. Plates for Door Sills by Putco are released in full kits, meaning they will protect each door sill, leaving these places pristine and undamaged by constant wear. Three models are available today.

  • Black Platinum Door Sill Plates by Putco are manufactured from durable stainless steel of T-304 grade protected by a top-quality finish that protects the product from rust and any other type of deterioration. Each order is custom created for a specific vehicle’s make and model. 
  • Stainless Steel model of Door Sill Plates is manufactured from laser-cut T-304 stainless steel that undergoes polishing and looks exceptionally beautiful on any car. These Plate Kits are resistant to corrosion, and temperature changes, and protect your OEM door sills from moisture, keeping them new and clean.
  • Ford Logo Door Sill Plates are manufactured specifically for Ford cars from top-grade stainless steel. Laser-cut and polished, these plate kits are a significant protection for OEM door sills. Two, Four, and Eight piece kits are available depending on your Ford’s model. This product is available for older and newer Ford models. 

Putco LED Grille Light Bar: Virtual Blade Series

Additional proper lighting at the front of the car is always nice for safety and comfort, but it also adds some significant style points. LED Grille Light Bar from the Putco Virtual Blade series offers three amazing functional features: a beautiful start-up sequence, work blade strobes, and of course DRL lighting. This is a powerful, safe, water-resistant lighting product that will expand your vehicle’s night performance and style to the maximum. 

  • Virtual Blade DRL Putco lighting is available in 8, 15, 32, and 37 inches. They are released in single or paired configurations. 
  • The product can be ordered with or without a wireless remote control. 
  • These Putco LED Bars are twice as safe and powerful compared to ordinary grille light bars manufactured by competitors. 
  • This model offers four different start-up sequences that can be set up to initiate at the unlock of your door or at the start-up of the engine. White and Amber colors are available. 

Other Trim Products Released by Putco

  • Pillar Posts Trim with Ford Logo on it are available in Platinum Black for proud Ford owners. Manufactured using laser technology with the material covered by a mirror-like finish, these Pillar Posts trims will enhance your Ford’s style. 
  • Ford LED emblems are available for the front and the tailgate sides. Bright and beautiful, these emblems will help achieve the true street spirit for your Ford. Together with Ford, Putco featured impressive start-up sequences and the choice between red and blue illumination. 
  • Liquid Billet Pedals by Putco installed over your factory pedals provide your feet with maximum traction and a feeling of control. Additional aluminum or rubber non-slip nubs completely connect your feet with the car.
  • ABS Chrome Mirror Covers by Putco enhance the design of your vehicle by up to fifty percent and protect factory mirror plastic from scratches and deterioration caused by UV rays and elements. 

Among other exterior trim products, you should check out these releases.

  • Bumper Covers from T-304 grade durable stainless steel. They protect your factory bumper from scratches and sometimes even dents.
  • Side Body Molding by Putco protects the sides of your vehicle from other careless drivers and passers-by who may accidentally scratch the finish.
Putco Stainless Steel Rocker Panels Kit Close Up
  • There are unique Rocker Panels available by Putco in Black Platinum, Mirror-Like Polished, or Silver finishes. Rocker Panels are a must-have for off-road and rural adventurers who want to protect their vehicles from scratches caused by rocks and debris.
  • Tailgate Guards by Putco manufactured from stainless steel protect your tailgate from scratches and wear. You can move cargo without being afraid to accidentally scratch or hit the tailgate.
  • Chrome Door Handles by Putco create a classy and elegant style for your vehicle. A must-have for men who like to give girls a ride in their car. 
Putco Chrome Door Handle Covers
  • Bumper Grille Inserts by Putco protect factory bumper grilles from scratches caused by rocks and debris. The bumper area is one of the most vulnerable when it comes to scratches, especially if you’re driving in rural areas or taking off-road trips. 
  • Also Pillar Posts Trims are available in clean stainless steel and platinum black finishes.

Tonneau Covers by Putco

One of the most important exterior accessories for pickup trucks is of course a Tonneau Cover. Not only it shields your cargo from water and dirt but also protects you from criminals trying to steal the contents of your truck. Retracting Electric Tonneau Covers from the Deluxe series offer durable aluminum construction with a weatherproof sealing system that won’t let even a drop of water get inside the truck bed. 

Deluxe Putco Cover comes with wireless controls that allow you to effortlessly open and close it. This system offers an anti-theft lock that is impossible to break, so you’ll be confident about the safety of your cargo. 

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  • This model is designed with a compact cover canister which takes less space in your bed in comparison to competitors’ products.
  • A simple press of a button allows you to open, release, or close the tonneau cover. If you need to open the cover partially, just light it up and then roll it to the required position.
  • This model is manufactured from a strong aluminum material protected by a black powder finish. It will protect the cover from UV rays, elements, and nature-induced deterioration for a lifetime of your vehicle.
  • Triple-sealing system is created for ultimate protection from dirt and moisture.
  • If something is obstructing the tonneau cover from closing or opening, it will automatically stop to avoid breaking. 
  • Up to 220 pounds of evenly distributed weight can be stored on top of this tonneau cover. 
  • As of the end of 2022 this model is only available for a Ford Maverick released in 2022 or 2023.
  • Putco Tonneau Covers are easy to install. You can do it yourself in the garage using simple tools and it won’t take more than an hour of your time.

Bed Racks by Putco

Putco manufactured a wide range of rack models to significantly increase cargo space and allow you to take maximum baggage for long trips. The company offers Overland Racks, Mid-height Crossbar Racks, Bed Rails, Headache Racks, and Stake Pocket Truck Racks. Here are some of the most popular Putco rack products as of 2022.

Putco Venture Tec Quick Rack

This model has dual t-slots for side rails and cross rails, which are designed to withstand the extreme weight of cargo. The Venture Tec Quick by Putco is a perfect rack to carry bikes, boards, kayaks, Overlanding tents, and other types of heavy baggage that cannot fit in the truck bed. 

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  • Thirteen inches of spare space adds above the cargo box with the Venture Tec Quick Rack installed.
  • T6 Aluminum is used to manufacture this model, and protected by durable black powder coating.
  • The rack won’t interfere with the tonneau cover, so you can install both of these upgrades at the same time.
  • The Venture Tec Quick Rack is manufactured for sport, travel, and heavy-duty performance.
  • Each side rail tie-down can hold five hundred pounds.
  • This model is compatible with other rack accessories like Headache racks, rack lights, and so on. 
  • Side rails feature tie-down ends for additional security. 
  • Crossbar rails and uprights are adjustable and removable, which expands functionality and allows you to use the rack however you want. 
  • This rack is installed by being fit into the pickup truck stake pocket holes, so you can do it by yourself in the garage or take it to be installed in mere thirty minutes to the near car service.

HD Elevated Crossrails by Putco

This minimalistic but extremely useful bed truck upgrade can hold up to one thousand pounds of static weight — for example, bikes, snowboards, kayaks, tents, or travel baggage.

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  • Putco HD Elevated Crossrails are manufactured from extra strong T6 6061-grade aluminum.
  • The product is protected by a black powder coating that eliminates the chance of scratches and deterioration such as rust.
  • This model is compatible exclusively with Putco TEC side bed rails and Venture Tec Quick Rack.
  • HD Elevated Crossrails are sold in pairs with two crossbars and four feet that mount to tec rails.
  • Any tonneau covers can be installed with HD Elevated Crossrails since the product stays nine inches above the bed rails.

Venture Tec Rack with Complete Mounting Plate Kit by Putco

This combination of above-the-bed cargo upgrades expands the capabilities of your truck to the maximum by providing the bed cage that allows you to store more cargo inside and on top of the rack. It is a perfect kit both for off-road adventures and family trips outside of town. This model has a confident design and provides confident performance that can hold up to one thousand pounds of even weight like bikes, boats, heavy cargo, and so on. Venture Tec Rack combined with the Mounting Plate Kit creates a truly American look for your pickup truck that represents strength and confidence. 

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  • Venture Tec Rack is manufactured from high-quality T6 6061 aluminum while the Mounting Plate Kit is created from 14 gauge aluminum. These products work together, easily taking all the stress from the off-road or working-duty driving style. 
  • Both upgrades are protected by black powder coating that repels any deterioration like rust and mild scratches. 
  • The kit doesn’t interfere with tonneau cover performance, so you can combine them and upgrade your truck bed to the maximum. 
  • CNC Machining technology is applied to both products for a smooth, impeccable design. 
  • This Putco product is compatible with Stake Pocket Sockets so no drilling is required. The installation is extremely easy and can be performed without leaving your garage. 

Side Rails for a Truck Bed by Putco

Apart from complete bed rack kits and combinations of such upgrades, Putco offers a wide range of side rails for minimalistic but extremely useful customization. These upgrades are available for modern and older vehicles of different makes and models. Here’s a full list of available bed rails by Putco.

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Classic Locker, Black Locker, and Black SSR Locker Side Rails are the most popular models by Putco. These are classic, reliable bed rails that easily secure cargo. 

T-Slot Black Locker and Sport Side Rails feature modern design and T-slots for convenient installation and detachment. 

Putco also offers Nylon Locker, SSR Locker, Tec Side, Boss Locker, Oval Locker, GM Licensed Locker, and Pop Up Locker Side Rails. 

Additional spare parts for side rails can be purchased at Putco.

Element Sky View Models by Putco 

These upgrades for the rooftop of the trucks are designed to improve your experience during nighttime trips and adventures in nature. These upgrades allow you to have a transparent rooftop which will grant you a beautiful night sky or comfortable day sky view. 

As of 2022, three models are available Jeep Gladiator, Jeep Wrangler, and Ford Bronco. 

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  • All three models are designed to withstand extreme temperatures between -200 and +150 Fahrenheit.
  • Element Sky View rooftops are resistant to UV rays, and deterioration induced by temperatures, chemicals, and elements. 
  • Each model is designed to be a precise fit for a tight and secure connection with the rooftop. 
  • Element Sky View is manufactured from Polycarbonate Makrolon Tuffak of the premium 135 grade. 
  • Noise levels won’t get higher after the installation due to the precise fit of the products. 
  • Element Sky View is manufactured with high resistance against winds so that it won’t get torn away even under hurricane pressure. 
  • The material is fully insulated and water resistant, so that not a drop of water would get inside the vehicle. 

Vehicle Grilles by Putco

One of the best ways to customize your vehicle’s appearance and create an impressive, confident look is to install grilles. They can completely transform the face of your car, adding intricate designs to the front. 

  • The Liquid Spider Web Grille by Putco offers an elegant spider-web design that spins around the logo of your vehicle and catches the eyes of everyone on the road. It is manufactured from high-quality Aluminum covered with Mirror Polish. The product installs over the original grille so you don’t have to uninstall anything and change the original parts. Bumpers Inserts and versatile applications are available for most trucks and SUVs. 
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  • Punch Stainless Steel Grilles by Putco are released as precise fitments for a wide range of vehicle makes and models. They are laser-cut from high-quality Stainless Steel sheets and feature Stainless Steel hardware that only requires a hex key to install. The product has to be installed over the original grille, so no drilling or replacement is required. Mirror Finish that covers Punch Stainless Steel Grilles is extremely durable against natural deterioration and won’t let your grille rust. 
  • LED Boss Grilles by Putco offers CNC Aluminum construction protected by Black Powder coating and combined with powerful LED bars for an amazing night performance. Boss LED Grilles offer 27 watt and 7200 lumens which shine at 6000k temperature and have fifty thousand hours of lifetime. This model is designed to be extremely resistant to corrosion and highly water resistant in the light bar areas. Just like all the other models, Boss LED Grille can be installed over the original grille and doesn’t require a lot of hassle during installation. 
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  • Designer FX Grilles are classic-looking, reliable, and resistant grilles that can be installed over existing grilles without spoiling the design. Designer FX grilles are available in a wide range of fitments for many truck and SUV models. NeveRust finish layer patented by Putco protects the product from deterioration induced by UV rays, moisture, chemical, and natural particles. 

Hood Shields by Putco

Comfort during driving significantly depends on the absence of bugs and dirt spots on your windshield. Many modern cars have bug shields in the front to protect the windshield from bugs, but some of them just aren’t as effective as they should be. Putco released three Hood Shield models that perfectly protect your windshield, so you wouldn’t have to clean it as often from dirt and bug spots. 

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  • Element Tinted Hood Shields by Putco provide ultimate protection from debris and bugs due to a strong Polycarbonate material manufactured using Injection Molding technology. 
  • Element Chrome Hood Shields are created from Cass Chrome plating, which is an ABS material resistant to temperature changes, UV-rays, and physical damage from road particles. At the same time, the Chrome color scheme significantly improves the visual design of your vehicle. 
  • Condor Jeep Hood Shields are manufactured as precise fitments for Jeeps released from 2007 to 2018. The main material in this model is Polycarbonate processed through Injection Molding Technology.