RoofRaks
Roof Racks
Helpful tips for mounting car roof racks — start with your vehicle.
How do you want to use your rack?
When choosing roof racks, start with what you need to carry — bikes, watersports gear, boards, or cargo boxes. Crossbar shape (square, round, aero) matters less than a secure vehicle-specific mount and a carrier that matches your load.
Roof racks terminology
What elements constitute a roof rack system?
- The bar — across the roof's width
- The feet — the bar sits on these
- A fitting kit — vehicle specific
Roof rail vs roof bars
Roof rails usually run front to rear from the factory. Roof bars mount to rails or clamp to the roof and run across the vehicle.
From the blog
- How to Identify Flush Roof RailsLearn how to identify flush roof rails and verify the mounting method, dimensions, hardware, clearances, and manufacturer fitment before ordering.
- Do You Need Crossbars for a Roof Basket?Most roof baskets need crossbars, but some mount to raised rails or include an integrated system. Check fit, spacing, and the lowest load limit.
- Bike Rack Weight Limit vs Roof Load LimitLearn how bike-carrier and vehicle roof-load limits interact, with checks for fit, capacity, safety, and exact product compatibility.
- What Type of Roof Rack Is Best for One Kayak?Choose the best one-kayak roof carrier by vehicle fit, kayak shape, loading method, crossbar compatibility, and published load limits.
- How to Stop Roof Rack Wind NoiseFind the source of roof rack wind noise, then use fitment, positioning, accessory, and hardware checks to quiet your setup safely.