When you need extra storage behind the wheel well, a full length wheel well tool box is a practical solution for keeping tools, hardware, and gear secure and organized. This guide highlights five durable options, explains who each one is best for, and shows how they compare on space, protection, and accessibility. The listed models are suited for different trucks and uses, from daily work tasks to weekend adventures. Below is a quick summary table of the featured products to help you skim decisions at a glance.
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| DEE ZEE DZ94B Gloss Black Wheel Well Tool Box | Vehicle with passenger-side wheel well | Non-rusting aluminum with gloss coating |
| DEE ZEE DZ95P Specialty Series | Easy side switching for driver or passenger | Reversible lid for flexible mounting |
| Weather Guard 173-5-04 Aluminum Wheel Well Tool Box | Fleet or single-vehicle with high security needs | Automotive-grade lock-and-latch system |
| Hooke Road Colorado Wheel Well Box | Chevy Colorado / GMC Canyon owners | Two-drawer design with secure locking |
| VEVOR Truck Bed Storage Box | Budget-conscious buyers needing weather resistance | Combination of lightweight composite with solid lock |
DEE ZEE DZ94B Gloss Black Wheel Well Tool Box
The Dee Zee DZ94B is a non-rusting 0.056 Brite-Tread aluminum tool box with a protective gloss black powder coat finish. It fits behind the truck wheel well and is designed specifically for the passenger side. Best for users who want durable, lightweight storage that resists corrosion and complements a glossy truck appearance. A potential limitation is that it is passenger-side specific, which may require choosing a different model for driver-side installations.
Dee Zee DZ95P Specialty Series Wheel Well Tool Box
The DZ95P from Dee Zee offers a poly plastic construction with a full-length lid that can reverse for driver or passenger side mounting. This feature makes it a versatile choice for mixed fleets or personal trucks where side flexibility matters. It’s best for buyers who want a budget-friendly, light-weight, and mobile storage solution. The main trade-off is that some users may prefer metal for maximum durability in harsh conditions.
Weather Guard 173-5-04 Aluminum Wheel Well Tool Box
This Weather Guard model emphasizes security and weather resistance. It uses an automotive-grade lock-and-latch system designed to resist picking and tampering, and it includes a full weather seal to keep contents dry. It’s best for fleet managers or single-vehicle owners who prioritize theft prevention and weatherproofing. A limitation to note is that some users may need to verify compatibility with their specific truck model due to side and height variations.
Hooke Road Colorado Wheel Well Box
The Hooke Road unit is designed for 2015-2022 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon trucks with a 5’2″ bed. It features two drawers within the wheel well area and a high-security locking system. Best for owners who want organized, multi-drawer storage and a dedicated security solution for elongated tools and camping gear. It is a better fit for those who need both large and small item organization but may require more installation attention on certain trim configurations.
VEVOR Truck Bed Storage Box
The VEVOR box combines a durable composite build that aims to blend metal durability with plastic’s lightweight convenience. It includes a lockable lid and a password padlock for added security. It is best for buyers who want a weather-resistant, anti-theft design without the weight of a full metal box. A potential limitation is that it may be less rigid than solid steel boxes under heavy, impact-prone use.
Buying Guide
- Material and durability: Aluminum boxes resist rust and are lightweight; steel boxes offer maximum rigidity but require more care against corrosion or scratches. Choose based on climate, payload, and vehicle use.
- Mounting side and space: Some models are passenger-side only, others offer reversible lids or adapt to different beds. Measure your wheel-well clearance and confirm bed width to ensure a proper fit.
- Security features: Look for automotive-grade locks, weather seals, and tamper-resistant cores. A single key or coded system can simplify fleet management or multi-user access.
- Accessibility and layout: Drawer designs or swing-out mechanisms impact how easily tools can be retrieved in tight spaces. Two-drawer configurations help separate tool types and gear.
- Weather protection: Full weather seals prevent water intrusion and dust ingress. If you frequently drive in rain or dust, prioritize sealed units with robust gaskets.
- Weight and installation effort: Lighter plastic or composite boxes reduce install effort but may compromise long-term durability. Heavier metal boxes may require mounting hardware and additional support.
FAQ
- What is the primary advantage of aluminum wheel well boxes? Aluminum boxes resist corrosion, are lighter, and typically offer good surface durability with a protective coating.
- Should I choose a reversible lid? If you frequently switch sides or share a vehicle with others, a reversible lid adds mounting flexibility without buying another model.
- How important is a weather seal? Very important for protecting tools from rain, mud, and road spray. A full-edge seal helps keep contents dry in poor weather.
- Is a two-drawer design better than a single large drawer? A two-drawer design enhances organization, allowing easy separation of tools and gear, which speeds retrieval on the go.
- Can these boxes fit all truck models? Fit depends on wheel well size, bed configuration, and mounting space. Always verify compatibility with your specific truck model and bed length.
- What about installation complexity? Installation varies; some models require basic mounting brackets, while others offer sliding or drawer-ready configurations. Consult product dimensions before purchase.