Aries Security Cargo Lid for 07-18 Jeep Wrangler JK Unlimited 4-Door

Preface: This review is not directed at the retailer/carrier of the product but rather, solely focused on Aires as the manufacturer.

I Purchased the Aires Off Road Jeep Security Cargo Lid in April 2021 to remedy the issue of security w/o a hard-top on my JKU. The following documents my findings and experience relevant to the product and installation on 5/15/2021.

1) Packaging: The boxes (2) were delivered by UPS. Not in the greatest of condition with all three of the plastic binding straps around the largest box having cut through the cardboard - some basic packaging precautions here would prevent this from occurring. Upon opening the boxes, I found varied types/colors of bubble wrap - immediately begged the question if I received a previously returned/reconditioned product and/or components.
2) Instructions: Step-by-step instructions with bill of materials were provided. Illustrations were included, but hardly comprehendible. Photos were black & white and were very dark - difficult to discern what was being displayed. As an alternative I found video installation instructions online.
3) Unpackaged all components. Found that I received two (2) of the same insert plates (one side has a slightly beveled finished edge, otherwise interchangeable). Figured I would contact Aires for a replacement - not detrimental at this point.
4) After fastening the passenger-side lid learned that the entire panel was warped, likely due to the weld on the support bracket on the underside of the panel. Able to rectify when all bolts were tightened down, but would have some impact on how the panel would come to rest and interact with the lid.
5) When installing the passenger-side insert plate, one of the threaded inserts that accepts a 4mm bolt was stripped out. Another modification would be required.
6) Upon nearing the final assembly steps, I found that the driver-side wire pin lock hole was not aligned (hole on the lid versus the side plate was off by ~1/4''). This discrepancy was not due to adjustment or fit. Basic comparisons between the left/right side revealed that the hole on the lid was drilled too high relevant to the side plate. Had to widen the holes on the lid to accommodate for the defect.
7) Final steps revealed a critical flaw: The brackets that accepted the latching rod on the underside of the lid and passenger side panel were off by ~1/2 '', ultimately making it impossible to latch/close the lid. After all possible adjustments were considered, it was very clear that this too, was a manufacturing intolerance.

Other notes pertaining to the quality & configuration of parts:
- The latching rod was ~1/8-1/4" too long on the passenger side. Would have had to been shortened and adjusted.
- The latching rod itself was a whole of 3/8" in diameter. Surely a different latching mechanism, bar, etc. could have been used here to accommodate intolerances as well as improve general usability and robustness.
- The hinges on the bi-fold lid were attached with rivets. Removable fasteners instead would have allowed for easy removal of the lid to improve the flexibility of the configuration (without compromising security) versus having to uninstall most of the unit.

Summary: It's challenging to describe the level of disappointment that I have with this product in a respectful and meaningful manner. As a consumer, I have a certain level of expectations for a product such as this with a reasonable threshold for mediocracy, but this product is a sad excuse of engineering and manufacturing processes; Aires should be ashamed and embarrassed for this product to carry their name, regardless of price. I'll be making the return today, with this being the only satisfying task in an otherwise frustrating and wasteful Saturday afternoon.

If you're reading this review, please take my account into consideration and save yourself the time, hassle and money. Also know also that this review is written by a highly mechanically inclined and capable individual - this is not a case of user-error or inability to follow directions. Aires will never again be a recipient of my business.