Can I put roof bars on any car?
Roof bars are a fantastic addition to any vehicle, offering extra storage space for road trips, outdoor adventures, or simply transporting bulky items. However, not every car is compatible with roof bars, and there are several factors to consider before installing them. In this article, we’ll explore whether you can put roof bars on any car and what you need to know to make the right choice for your vehicle.
Understanding Roof Bar Compatibility
Roof bars are not universally compatible with all vehicles. The ability to install roof bars depends on your car's design, roof type, and the availability of mounting points. Here are the key factors to consider:
- Roof Type: Cars come with different roof designs, such as bare roofs, raised roof rails, flush roof rails, or fixed mounting points. Each type requires specific roof bar systems.
- Manufacturer Specifications: Some car manufacturers provide guidelines or restrictions on roof bar installation. Always check your vehicle's manual for compatibility details.
- Weight Capacity: Every car has a maximum roof load capacity, which includes the weight of the roof bars and the items you plan to carry. Exceeding this limit can damage your car and compromise safety.
Steps to Determine If Roof Bars Are Right for Your Car
If you're considering adding roof bars to your car, follow these steps to ensure compatibility and safety:
- Inspect Your Roof: Identify your car's roof type (bare, rails, or fixed points) to determine the appropriate roof bar system.
- Consult the Manual: Review your car's owner manual for roof bar installation guidelines and weight limits.
- Choose the Right Roof Bars: Purchase roof bars designed specifically for your car's make and model. Universal roof bars may not fit securely on all vehicles.
- Professional Installation: If you're unsure about installing roof bars yourself, seek professional assistance to ensure they are securely and safely mounted.
Common Roof Bar Types
There are several types of roof bars available, each suited to different vehicles and needs:
- Clamp-On Roof Bars: Ideal for cars with bare roofs, these bars use clamps to attach securely to the door frames.
- Rail-Mounted Roof Bars: Designed for vehicles with raised or flush roof rails, these bars attach directly to the rails.
- Fixed Point Roof Bars: These bars connect to pre-installed mounting points on the car's roof, offering a sleek and secure fit.
Final Thoughts
While roof bars can be installed on many vehicles, they are not universally compatible. Always consider your car's roof type, manufacturer guidelines, and weight capacity before making a purchase. By choosing the right roof bars and ensuring proper installation, you can enjoy the added convenience and functionality they provide without compromising safety or damaging your vehicle.
If you have any questions about roof bar installation or need professional assistance, feel free to contact us at Kevin's Autos. With years of experience in car maintenance and repair, we’re here to help you make the best decisions for your vehicle!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you get a roof rack installed on any car?
Not every car roof rack or rail system is compatible with every vehicle, and different brands of systems may not be compatible with each other. There could be incompatibilities based on size, weight or method of attachment, for example.
How fast can I drive with roof bars?
The traffic experts at the ADAC also recommend driving at a maximum speed of 130 km/h with a transport box on the roof.
Do any roof racks fit any car?
Not all roof racks fit all cars. A unique fitting kit is often needed and although the style you choose may come down to what you think looks best, first you need to consider what you plan to carry on your roof racks. The first step is to find your car using our convenient fit lookup.
What are illegal modifications?
Some mods such as illegal tints and exhaust are common but serious charges that are well known, but some might surprise you. For instance, something as simple as hanging an air freshener from your rear view window can get you a fix-it ticket in California.
How hard is it to install a roof rack on a car?
Roof Rack Crossbars Installation Guide. Installing a roof rack on the roof of your vehicle, such as a Menabo branded roof rack, is simple to do at home in less than 30 minutes IF your vehicle is already equipped with raised or flush roof rails.
Is it OK to leave roof bars on car?
While keeping the roof rack on the car when not in use is okay, vibrations can loosen fixtures so keeping them lubricated will help.
Can all cars take a roof rack?
Yes, provided the roof rack or box is compatible with the vehicle and any load fitted is securely attached with no possibility of it falling off. You should also ensure that you do not exceed the design capacity of the roof rack or the design gross weight of the vehicle as set out by the manufacturer.
Are roof bars classed as a modification?
Yes, a roof rack does count as a modification. When you're filling in your quote, select 'Yes' to modifications, then click on 'Functional Changes' and you'll see the option to select 'Roof Rack'. Was this article helpful?
Can you put roof bars on any car?
Although many of the roof bars we sell have been designed to fit most vehicles, it's still important to check compatibility. The easiest way to do this is to use our handy online tool. Simply enter your vehicle registration number, select your roof type, then we'll show you recommendations for your vehicle.
What's the difference between roof racks and roof bars?
In summary, roof racks are more suitable for large and irregularly shaped items, offering an open and protected space for loading. Van roof bars are ideal for transporting longer and thinner objects, providing a solid horizontal base for securing items securely.
