There are a number of factors to consider when choosing which roof racks will suit your car. There are differing ways that roof racks attach to your car and generally there is no choice as to which one you’ll be using as that’s already been decided by the vehicle’s manufacturer.
You do however get to choose the style of crossbars and on most vehicles you can also choose whether to go for a ‘flush’ style or a ‘through’ bar style. It will all depend on what you’re going to use your racks for, brand preference and how you want them to look.
Fixed Point
A system whereby a stud is threaded into a factory fitting point in the roofline.
Pros: Very neat and a reasonable load limit.
Cons: No flexibility as to where racks sit on the roof.
Raised Roof Rail
Roof racks fit to a factory fitted raised rail on the roof.
Pros: High load limit and flexibility as to where racks can be placed. No contact with paintwork.
Cons: Some rails are quite short and are positioned towards the rear of the vehicle. Always check the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended maximum load rating.
Solid Rail
Roof racks fit to a factory fitted raised rail on the roof.
Pros: Neat, low profile, no contact with paintwork and flexible positioning of racks.
Cons: Some rails are quite short and are positioned towards the rear of the vehicle. Always check the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended maximum load rating.
Door Mount
Foot sits directly on the paintwork with a clamp that sits in the top of the doorframe.
Pros: A very popular style used when no other options available from the vehicle’s manufacturer.
Cons: Contacts paintwork, typically lower load limits.
Gutter Mount
Old Skool style becoming less common as vehicle manufacturers do away with rain gutters.
Pros: Easy to fit and high load limits.
Cons: You need to buy locking knobs as an accessory with the Thule brand.
*Always check the vehicle manufacturer's recommended maximum load rating for roof racks.
At Rack & Carry, we’re more than happy to help advise on what will suit you and your needs best.
