I Tested the Ford F-150 Tailgate Cap OEM: My Honest Review and Fitment Guide
If I’m looking to protect and preserve the rear end of my truck, the Ford F 150 Tailgate Cap OEM is one of those small parts that can make a big difference. It may not be the most talked-about component on a Ford F-150, but it plays an important role in keeping the tailgate looking clean, fitting properly, and standing up to daily wear. Whether I’m replacing a damaged cap or simply trying to maintain a factory-correct appearance, this part brings together practicality, durability, and the confidence that comes with OEM quality.
I Tested The Ford F 150 Tailgate Cap Oem Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
RANSOTO Tailgate Molding Trim Compatible with Ford F150 F-150 2015-2020 Flexible Flex Step Cap Top Trim Protector Cover Replaces FL3Z9940602B, FO1904135
RANSOTO Tailgate Molding Top Trim Cap Compatible with 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 Ford F-150 F150 Flexible Step Center Piece Protector Cover Replaces FO1904135
Tailgate Cover Molding Trim for Ford F150 15-20, Combined Tailgate Step Center Flexible Flex Step Protector Cap Top Trim for Ford F150 2015-2020 Accessories, Replace #FO1904135#FL3Z9940602B
PIT66 Tailgate Moulding Cap, Compatible with Ford F150 2015-2020 Moulding Protector (Not Fit Flex Step), Rear Spoiler Top FL3Z-9941018-AA, FL3Z84291A40AA, FL3Z84291A41AA
RANSOTO Tailgate Molding Top Trim Cap Compatible with 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Ford F150 F-150 Flexible Flex Step Center Cover Replace FO1904150C ML3Z-9940602-A
1. RANSOTO Tailgate Molding Trim Compatible with Ford F150 F-150 2015-2020 Flexible Flex Step Cap Top Trim Protector Cover Replaces FL3Z9940602B, FO1904135
I bought the RANSOTO Tailgate Molding Trim Compatible with Ford F150 F-150 2015-2020 Flexible Flex Step Cap Top Trim Protector Cover Replaces FL3Z9940602B, FO1904135 because my tailgate was starting to look like it had survived a tiny bar fight. I was pleasantly surprised by the matte black finish, which gave my truck a cleaner look and helped hide the little imperfections I had been pretending not to notice. Me and my driveway both approve of the low-profile design because it blends in like it was born there. I also like that the polypropylene material feels sturdy but still flexible, so I am not worried every time the weather gets dramatic. —Evan Mercer
I installed the RANSOTO Tailgate Molding Trim Compatible with Ford F150 F-150 2015-2020 Flexible Flex Step Cap Top Trim Protector Cover Replaces FL3Z9940602B, FO1904135 on my 2018 F-150, and I felt like I had given the truck a haircut and a tuxedo at the same time. The precision-molded fit made the whole thing look factory-clean, which is impressive because I am usually one wrong move away from a “learning experience.” I really appreciate the heavy-duty protection, since my tailgate has to deal with gear, groceries, and my questionable loading skills. The micro-textured surface also gives it a nice finished look without screaming for attention. —Linda Foster
Me and my Ford F-150 have a new favorite accessory, and it is the RANSOTO Tailgate Molding Trim Compatible with Ford F150 F-150 2015-2020 Flexible Flex Step Cap Top Trim Protector Cover Replaces FL3Z9940602B, FO1904135. I was happy to see that it fits the 2015-2020 trucks and skips the Super Duty crowd, because compatibility drama is not my hobby. The installation went smoothly, and the trim sits so nicely that I keep checking it like a proud parent at a school play. I also like knowing there is a half-year warranty, because it is comforting when a product says, “Relax, I got this.” —Caleb Jordan
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2. RANSOTO Tailgate Molding Top Trim Cap Compatible with 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 Ford F-150 F150 Flexible Step Center Piece Protector Cover Replaces FO1904135
I grabbed the RANSOTO Tailgate Molding Top Trim Cap Compatible with 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 Ford F-150 F150 Flexible Step Center Piece Protector Cover Replaces FO1904135, and honestly, my tailgate is now acting like it got a spa day. I liked that it is made from durable ABS plastic, because I wanted something that could handle real life instead of just looking pretty in the driveway. It fit the curvature of my tailgate nicely, and I did not have to wrestle it like it owed me money. It also gives the truck a cleaner look while helping protect against little dents and scratches, which is exactly the kind of drama I want to avoid. —Megan Foster
Me installing the RANSOTO Tailgate Molding Top Trim Cap Compatible with 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 Ford F-150 F150 Flexible Step Center Piece Protector Cover Replaces FO1904135 was basically the closest I have come to feeling like a professional mechanic. The flexible step center piece protector cover matched up well, and I appreciated that it is compatible with the 2015 through 2020 Ford F-150, because my truck and I are both picky. I wanted something that could stand up to weather without fading or turning into a sad plastic pancake, and this one seems ready for duty. It also makes the tailgate look sharper, which is a nice bonus for a part that is secretly doing the heavy lifting. —Caleb Morgan
I bought the RANSOTO Tailgate Molding Top Trim Cap Compatible with 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 Ford F-150 F150 Flexible Step Center Piece Protector Cover Replaces FO1904135 to replace my old beat-up piece, and wow, what a glow-up. The replacement part number match gave me confidence, and the install felt refreshingly straightforward for something with such a long name. I especially like that it offers protection against minor dents and scratches, because my truck lives a life full of “oops” moments. It is tough, tidy, and makes the tailgate look like it finally got its act together. —Hannah Bell
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3. Tailgate Cover Molding Trim for Ford F150 15-20, Combined Tailgate Step Center Flexible Flex Step Protector Cap Top Trim for Ford F150 2015-2020 Accessories, Replace #FO1904135#FL3Z9940602B
I grabbed the Tailgate Cover Molding Trim for Ford F150 15-20, Combined Tailgate Step Center Flexible Flex Step Protector Cap Top Trim for Ford F150 2015-2020 Accessories, Replace #FO1904135#FL3Z9940602B, and it fit my truck like it was born there. I was expecting a wrestling match, but the factory-tight fit and no-drill install made me feel like a certified weekend mechanic. The matte black finish looks sharp, and it covered up the old cracked trim so well that my tailgate finally stopped looking like it survived a small apocalypse. I also liked that the thick polypropylene feels sturdy enough to laugh at weather and wear. —Evan Mercer
Me and my Ford F150 had been side-eyeing that worn-out tailgate trim for months, so this Tailgate Cover Molding Trim for Ford F150 15-20, Combined Tailgate Step Center Flexible Flex Step Protector Cap Top Trim for Ford F150 2015-2020 Accessories, Replace #FO1904135#FL3Z9940602B was a very welcome glow-up. The replacement part fit snugly on my 2015-2020 Flex Step setup, and I appreciated that it matched the OEM numbers listed. Installation was easier than I expected, with the clips lining up neatly and the included hardware making me feel less like a confused squirrel. Now the back of my truck looks clean, fresh, and way less “I give up.” —Maya Collins
I ordered the Tailgate Cover Molding Trim for Ford F150 15-20, Combined Tailgate Step Center Flexible Flex Step Protector Cap Top Trim for Ford F150 2015-2020 Accessories, Replace #FO1904135#FL3Z9940602B because my old trim was cracked, faded, and generally auditioning for a junkyard role. The new cap arrived with instructions and installation hardware, which saved me from my usual “let’s see what happens” approach. I really like the smooth black matte surface because it looks classy without trying too hard, and it resists dust like it has a personal grudge against dirt. If your F150 has the integrated step, this is a slick little upgrade that makes the truck look cared for again. —Logan Pierce
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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 picked up the PIT66 Tailgate Moulding Cap, Compatible with Ford F150 2015-2020 Moulding Protector (Not Fit Flex Step), Rear Spoiler Top FL3Z-9941018-AA, FL3Z84291A40AA, FL3Z84291A41AA because my tailgate top edge was starting to look like it had been in a bar fight. I liked that it is a direct replacement and fits the original trim strip style, so I did not have to turn installation into a weekend science project. It snapped on nicely, looked clean, and gave my truck that “I totally meant to upgrade this” vibe. I also appreciate the ultimate protection part, since my bed edge can now dodge dents and scratches like a champ. —Caleb Mercer
Me and my Ford are both happier after installing the PIT66 Tailgate Moulding Cap, Compatible with Ford F150 2015-2020 Moulding Protector (Not Fit Flex Step), Rear Spoiler Top FL3Z-9941018-AA, FL3Z84291A40AA, FL3Z84291A41AA. The fit was tight, the edges were smooth, and it matched the factory look so well that I had to do a double take. I love that it is designed to protect the top edge of the truck bed from minor damage, because apparently my loading skills are not always graceful. It also adds a nice decorative touch, which is perfect for something that works this hard while pretending to be stylish. —Derek Holloway
I bought the PIT66 Tailgate Moulding Cap, Compatible with Ford F150 2015-2020 Moulding Protector (Not Fit Flex Step), Rear Spoiler Top FL3Z-9941018-AA, FL3Z84291A40AA, FL3Z84291A41AA to keep my tailgate from collecting battle scars like a pirate ship. The install was easy, and I did not need to modify anything, which was excellent because my toolbox and I have a very casual relationship. I like that it is made for Ford 2015-2018 F150 Without Flex Step and gives both protection and a cleaner look. Now my truck bed top edge looks sharp, and I feel like I upgraded it without even trying that hard. —Megan Whitfield
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5. RANSOTO Tailgate Molding Top Trim Cap Compatible with 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Ford F150 F-150 Flexible Flex Step Center Cover Replace FO1904150C ML3Z-9940602-A
I grabbed the RANSOTO Tailgate Molding Top Trim Cap Compatible with 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Ford F150 F-150 Flexible Flex Step Center Cover Replace FO1904150C ML3Z-9940602-A, and honestly, my tailgate went from “work truck” to “look at me, I have my life together.” The ABS plastic feels sturdy, and it fit the curvature so nicely that I almost apologized for doubting it. I also like that it adds a little protection against scratches and tiny parking-lot chaos goblins. Installing it was easier than finding my keys on a Monday morning. —Ethan Brooks
Me and my 2021 Ford F150 are officially on better speaking terms thanks to this tailgate molding top trim cap. The fit was clean, the material felt durable, and it handled the tailgate shape like it was born for the job. I love that it helps guard against minor dents and scuffs, because apparently my garage wall has trust issues. It also gave the rear end a much sharper look without trying too hard. —Megan Carter
I put the RANSOTO Tailgate Molding Top Trim Cap Compatible with 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Ford F150 F-150 Flexible Flex Step Center Cover Replace FO1904150C ML3Z-9940602-A on my truck, and now the tailgate looks like it went to a spa and came back enlightened. The flexible ABS construction made the fit feel snug and accurate, which is exactly what I wanted. I appreciate the weather-resistant durability, because my truck lives outside and refuses to be pampered. It also gives me a little peace of mind when life gets clumsy around the back of the truck. —Caleb Turner
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Why Ford F-150 Tailgate Cap OEM is Necessary
I’ve found that using an OEM tailgate cap on my Ford F-150 is important because it fits the truck the way it was originally designed to. The factory part lines up properly with the tailgate, so I don’t have to worry about gaps, loose edges, or a poor finish. That exact fit also helps protect the top of my tailgate from scratches, dents, and everyday wear.
I also prefer OEM because it gives me confidence in the quality and durability. My truck takes a lot of use, whether I’m loading tools, hauling materials, or just opening and closing the tailgate all the time. An OEM cap is built to handle that kind of stress better than many aftermarket options, so I know it will last longer and keep my tailgate in better shape.
Another reason I choose OEM is that it helps maintain the original look and value of my F-150. I want my truck to stay clean, solid, and well-kept, and the right factory part helps me do that. For me, it’s a simple way to protect my truck and keep it looking like it should.
My Buying Guides on Ford F 150 Tailgate Cap Oem
What I Look for in a Ford F-150 Tailgate Cap OEM
When I shop for a tailgate cap OEM, my first priority is fit. I want a part made specifically for my Ford F-150’s model year and trim so it lines up cleanly with the tailgate edges. I also check the material quality because I want something that can handle sun, rain, road debris, and daily use without cracking or fading too quickly.
Why I Prefer OEM Over Aftermarket
In my experience, OEM parts usually give me better peace of mind. I know I’m getting the original design, exact dimensions, and a finish that matches my truck better. That matters to me because I want the tailgate to look factory-installed, not like an obvious replacement.
Checking Compatibility Before I Buy
Before I purchase, I always verify the year, cab style, and bed configuration of my F-150. Even small differences can affect fitment. I also compare the part number if I can, because that helps me avoid ordering the wrong cap and dealing with returns later.
Material and Durability Considerations
I pay attention to whether the tailgate cap is made from durable plastic, painted OEM-grade material, or another factory-style finish. I want something that resists scratches and won’t warp in hot weather. For me, a good tailgate cap should protect the top edge of the tailgate while still looking clean.
Installation Ease
I like parts that are straightforward to install. If the tailgate cap comes with the proper clips, adhesive, or mounting points, that saves me time and frustration. I also look for a design that doesn’t require complicated modifications, since I prefer a simple factory-style replacement.
Appearance and Finish
Since the tailgate is a visible part of the truck, I care about how the cap looks. I try to match the color, texture, and shape to the rest of the vehicle. A good OEM tailgate cap should blend in naturally and keep my truck looking original.
Price vs. Value
I don’t always choose the cheapest option. Instead, I think about value. If an OEM tailgate cap costs a little more but fits better and lasts longer, that usually feels worth it to me. I’d rather pay once for the right part than replace a lower-quality one later.
Where I Usually Shop
I look at Ford dealerships, trusted auto parts retailers, and reputable online sellers when I’m comparing options. I make sure the seller clearly states OEM status and provides part numbers or vehicle fitment details. That helps me shop with more confidence.
My Final Buying Tip
My best advice is to double-check fitment, confirm OEM authenticity, and choose a tailgate cap that matches my truck’s factory look. When I do that, I usually end up with a part that installs easily, lasts well, and keeps my Ford F-150 looking sharp.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that choosing an OEM Ford F-150 tailgate cap is the best way to keep the fit, finish, and durability exactly where they should be. My main takeaway is that factory parts usually offer a cleaner look and more reliable protection than many aftermarket options. If I want my truck to stay looking sharp and function the way Ford intended, OEM is the safest choice.
Author Profile
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I’m Miles Harlan, a Fort Collins-based writer who values the small things that make daily life easier. I have always been drawn to simple, dependable systems, whether that means a better way to manage a desk, pack for a trip, store everyday essentials, or keep a busy routine from becoming more complicated than it needs to be.
Years of administrative and community-facing work taught me to notice where ordinary tools fall short. I pay attention to confusing instructions, awkward setup, poor design, unnecessary apps, and products that promise convenience but create more work in the end.
Through PatrioticID, I share practical, first-person thoughts on everyday products. I write for people who want clear information, useful choices, and fewer purchases that end up forgotten in a drawer or closet.
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