I emailed Retrax with about a few questions regarding the PRO cover I am interested in purchasing, and I figured some of you may have been wondering about the same things, so here is a transcript of our correspondence:
From me:
"I am interested in the Retrax Pro for my 2014 GMC Sierra Crew Cab SLT with the 6.5' bed. My friend just bought a Retrax ONE for his 2014 Tundra and loves it, so I wanted to make sure the PRO is worth the extra cost to me. My main concern is the life of thermoplastic elastomer connecting hinges. According to the FAQ: "This material is designed to last the life of the cover, ensure smooth operation and provide a dependable seal." My questions to you if I purchase the Pro are: 1. Are the seals replaceable? Or, are they permanently fixed to the slats, which I would assume would mean the entire cover would need to be replaced if they fail. 2. In the unlikely event that the seals wear out/become brittle and start leaking within the first three years, will I have to pay for a replacement or will the warranty cover the full cost of the repair? What about after 5 years or so?
Thank you for your time and assistance with my inquiry, and I look forward to hearing back from you soon."
Reply from Janelle @ Retrax Customer Service:
"The seals and the slats are replaceable. Our warranty if for parts and shipping. If you have this type of issue in the first three years the cover will be replaced under this warranty. If it is after 5 years it will be at a pro-rated cost."
Follow up from me:
"Thanks you for the prompt reply! That's good to hear that the seals are replaceable. If you don't mind, can you please give me a ballpark price of what the seals would cost out of warranty should I need to replace all of them at 100% my cost? Thank you again for your time."
Follow up from Janelle:
"To replace a complete slat with the weatherstrip is $35.00 + shipping."
I thought the weather strip/seal would be more expensive or more difficult to replace, so based on that I'm going with the PRO model.
P.S. Kudos to Retrax (specifically Janelle) for getting back to me so quick. Nothing says "You're on your own after we get your money." like a company with unresponsive customer support.