Car roof racks used OE

Car Roof Racks

Roof racks significantly enhance your car's storage capacity. They allow you to securely carry luggage, sports equipment, or bulky items on the roof, effectively freeing up valuable interior room. This not only improves passenger comfort but also provides a much clearer view for everyone inside. Consequently, these racks are exceptionally practical and highly valued by many motorists. Their remarkable versatility means you can effortlessly manage various types of journeys and accommodate diverse cargo requirements.

What can I transport with a roof rack system?

Roof rack systems provide a robust foundation for securely transporting a wide array of items and various attachments. These versatile systems allow you to easily attach specialised carriers, such as bike racks, kayak carriers, or even ski and snowboard racks, ensuring your gear is safely transported for any adventure.

For personal belongings, weatherproof boxes offer secure storage, while soft roof bags provide flexible cargo space for lighter loads. When transporting bulkier or unusually shaped items, like building materials or large tools, a platform-style roof rack is often the ideal choice, offering a perfect transport solution.

How will a roof rack affect driving and fuel efficiency?

Roof racks boost your vehicle's carrying capability but come with drawbacks. They disrupt airflow, increasing aerodynamic drag and wind resistance. This means your car will burn more fuel, potentially up to 25% more, especially at higher speeds. You will also experience increased wind noise, often a distinct whistling sound. To minimise this, ensure components are securely tightened and bars correctly positioned; a fairing can also help.

Furthermore, a roof rack raises your car's centre of gravity, impacting handling and stability and potentially extending braking distance. It is wise to take off your roof rack when not in use. This will help you save on fuel, protect your car's paintwork, and prevent water from gathering near the seals.

Choosing the Right Roof Rack System

Selecting the ideal roof rack significantly enhances your vehicle's utility. To make the best choice, first assess your specific cargo requirements, deciding whether a full platform or just crossbars will suit you. Next, consider materials: aluminium offers lightness, while steel provides superior strength. Crucially, verify compatibility with your car's make, model, year, and roof type by carefully reviewing its specifications. Finally, for a secure and correct fit, professional installation is highly recommended.

Roof Racks or Roof Bars: Which System Is Right for You?

When deciding between a roof rack and roof bars, your primary consideration should be what you need to transport. A roof rack, a robust platform, offers a flat, sturdy area that’s perfect for directly securing heavy, bulky, or unusually shaped items.

In contrast, roof bars, often called crossbars, present a more understated and flexible solution. Typically consisting of two bars spanning your vehicle's roof, they create a versatile foundation for various attachments such as  bike racks or roof boxes. While some systems are designed for easy removal, others offer a more permanent fixture. Ultimately, your ideal choice hinges on the specific items you'll be carrying and the overall load capacity required.

Should I get roof bars or a full roof rack?

Choosing between roof bars and a full roof rack depends on your transport requirements.

If you frequently carry large, heavy, or bulky items, such as building materials or extensive camping equipment, a full roof rack is the ideal solution.

Conversely, roof bars are perfect for attaching specialised carriers like bike racks, kayak holders, or roof boxes. For most recreational activities and general travel, these bars offer a versatile and secure platform, often proving to be the more practical and popular choice for many.

How to ind a roof rack that fits vehicle?

Choosing the correct roof rack is essential. Start by using an online checker, inputting your car's registration or providing its make, model, and year. For absolute precision, always cross-reference these details with your car's manual.

A complete roof rack system comprises several key components: the main bars, foot packs, and a specific fitting kit. This essential kit contains all the necessary hardware to securely attach the rack using your vehicle's designated fixing points.

What type of roof mounting does my car have?

The specific fitting kit for your car is determined by its roof style, as there are several primary mounting options:

• for vehicles with a bare or plain roof, lacking visible attachment points, a door frame clamp is typically used,

• factory-fitted raised or open roof rails, which stand distinctly above the car's surface, creating a noticeable gap,

• flush rails, which lie directly on the roof with no space underneath,

• fixed points, which are specific mounting spots often concealed by small covers and featuring pre-drilled threads,

• T-tracks, which are metal channels integrated along the roof, designed for a T-bolt to slide into for a secure attachment.

Which is better: steel or aluminium roof bars?

When selecting roof bars, the choice of material  is key: steel or aluminium.

Steel roof bars offer:

• exceptional strength and durability,

• a heavy-duty, cost-effective choice,

• a traditional square profile,

• can create noticeable wind noise,

• increased aerodynamic drag.

In contrast, aluminium roof bars are:

• significantly lighter,

• sleek, aerodynamic designs minimise drag,

• effectively reduce wind noise,

• improve airflow for better fuel economy,

• often include T-tracks for accessory flexibility.

Ultimately, steel is robust and economical, while aluminium provides a quieter journey and better fuel efficiency.

Understanding Load Capacity for Safe and Secure Transport

Always adhere to specified weight limits. Consult your rack's instructions and vehicle's handbook to determine its maximum roof load. The combined weight of the rack and cargo must not exceed the lower of these figures, often around 100kg.

Ensure your load is properly secured by checking crossbars are level and aligned, and all hardware is firmly tightened. Be aware that your vehicle's total height will significantly increase. Therefore, watch out for low bridges, overhead obstructions, and never enter height-restricted car parks or automatic car washes.

Verify any protrusion limits to avoid dangerous overhangs. Finally, inform your car insurance provider about this modification; it affects your policy and prevents potential claim issues after an accident.

Choose the best option for your needs at Ecooparts!