Are roof rails worth it?
Roof rails, also known as roof racks, are a popular accessory for many vehicles. They provide a convenient way to transport bulky or oversized items on the roof of your car. However, the decision to install roof rails is not always straightforward. In this article, we'll explore the pros and cons of roof rails to help you determine if they are worth the investment.
What Are Roof Rails?
Roof rails are metal or plastic bars that are mounted on the roof of a vehicle, typically running from the front to the back. They are designed to support a variety of roof-mounted accessories, such as cargo boxes, bike racks, kayak carriers, and more. Roof rails can be either factory-installed or aftermarket additions, depending on the make and model of your car.
Pros of Roof Rails
- Increased Cargo Capacity: Roof rails allow you to transport larger or bulkier items that may not fit inside your vehicle, such as camping gear, sports equipment, or oversized luggage. This can be especially useful for families or those with active lifestyles.
- Improved Aerodynamics: Some roof rail designs are engineered to improve the aerodynamics of your vehicle, which can lead to better fuel efficiency and reduced wind noise.
- Enhanced Appearance: Roof rails can add a sporty or rugged look to your vehicle, enhancing its overall aesthetic appeal.
- Versatility: Roof rails can be used with a variety of roof-mounted accessories, allowing you to customize your vehicle to suit your needs.
By using roof rails, you can expand the carrying capacity of your vehicle and transport items that would otherwise be difficult or impossible to fit inside. This can be particularly useful for outdoor enthusiasts, families, or anyone who needs to transport large or bulky items on a regular basis.
Cons of Roof Rails
- Increased Fuel Consumption: Roof rails can create additional wind resistance, which can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, especially at higher speeds. This can result in higher fuel costs over time.
- Added Weight: The weight of the roof rails themselves, as well as any items you transport on them, can increase the overall weight of your vehicle, which can impact handling, braking, and acceleration.
- Installation and Maintenance: Roof rails require professional installation, which can be costly. Additionally, they may require regular maintenance to ensure they remain secure and in good condition.
- Potential for Damage: Roof rails can be susceptible to damage, such as dents or scratches, which can affect the appearance and functionality of your vehicle.
While roof rails can be a useful addition to your vehicle, it's important to carefully consider the potential drawbacks and whether the benefits outweigh the costs for your specific needs and driving habits.
Conclusion
Roof rails can be a valuable accessory for those who need to transport larger or bulkier items on a regular basis. They offer increased cargo capacity, improved aerodynamics, and enhanced versatility. However, they also come with some drawbacks, such as decreased fuel efficiency, added weight, and potential for damage. Ultimately, the decision to install roof rails will depend on your individual needs, driving habits, and budget. By weighing the pros and cons, you can determine if roof rails are a worthwhile investment for your vehicle.
Is it better to have a roof rack or a hitch rack?
In general, hitch racks are easier to access, load and unload the bikes, lower center of gravity, less exposure to road debris while driving, and they do not create as much wind resistance as a roof rack, which lowers your MPG compared to a hitch.
What are the disadvantages of a roof rack?
Increased aerodynamic drag forces the engine to use more fuel to maintain speed, particularly at motorway speeds. Even when empty, a roof rack can reduce efficiency due to its effect on airflow and increased resistance. With this in mind, it's worth removing the rack when you don't need to use it.
How much weight can roof rails hold?
Overloading a roof rack can cause serious problems. For this reason, the universal cap for a roof rack is roughly 165 pounds.
Do you need to tell car insurance about roof rack?
Always inform your insurer before you make any changes to your vehicle. Modifications can impact your insurance if they alter the vehicle's safety, increase the likelihood of an accident or increase the value of the vehicle.
Do roof rails affect gas mileage?
Having those bars hanging out in the airstream increases aerodynamic drag, which increasingly hurts fuel economy the faster the vehicle is traveling.
Do roof rails cause drag?
Roof racks can significantly increase aerodynamic drag due to the additional surface area they create on top of your vehicle. This airflow disruption can lead to more air resistance as you drive, forcing the engine to work harder to maintain speed.
Does a roof rack add value?
Increases Vehicle's Resale Value
Another benefit of a roof rack is that it can add value to your vehicle. If you're planning to sell your car in the future, having a roof rack installed can increase its resale value.
Do I really need a roof rack?
Long-Distance Travel: On road trips or long journeys, a roof rack can help distribute weight more evenly and create additional space for passengers and their belongings. Overall, a roof rack enhances the functionality of a vehicle, making it more adaptable to different lifestyles and activities.
How useful are roof rails?
Roof rails are a versatile accessory for modern vehicles, offering functional and aesthetic benefits. They provide extra storage space, protect luggage, and enhance the car's design. However, they may come with trade-offs like increased noise, fuel consumption, and potential structural strain.
How much do roof racks affect gas mileage?
Passenger cars with roof racks can use up to 25% more fuel, while trucks can burn as much as 11.7% additional gas or diesel. The percentages vary according to factors like the roof rack being loaded or unloaded and if the vehicle was driving on urban roads or the highway.
