How much can the Outback Wilderness roof hold?
The Outback Wilderness roof is rated to carry up to 150 pounds (68 kilograms) of cargo when using the factory crossbars. This rating includes the weight of the rack itself and all gear mounted on top. Plan conservatively and consult your owner’s manual for model-year specifics.
Official roof load rating
Subaru specifies a maximum roof load of 150 lb (68 kg) for the Outback Wilderness. This limit is the total vertical load the roof can safely support with the factory rail and crossbar system in place. Exceeding this limit can affect handling, fuel economy, and structural integrity.
What counts toward the roof load
- Luggage, cargo boxes, and other items placed on the roof rack
- Bicycles, kayaks, skis, snowboards, and any other gear mounted on the roof
- The weight of the roof rack/crossbars and mounting hardware themselves
- Any additional attachments mounted to the roof that add weight
Concluding note: All roof-mounted items, including the rack hardware, contribute to the 150 lb (68 kg) limit. Distribute weight evenly and avoid piling heavy gear in one spot to maintain stability and avoid damage.
Practical loading guidelines
To maximize safety and performance, follow these guidelines when loading on the roof.
- Use a roof rack system that is rated for at least 150 pounds and ensure crossbars are installed per the owner's manual.
- Distribute weight evenly left-to-right and front-to-back; place heavier items lower and toward the center of the roof.
- Keep the overall center of gravity as low as possible and avoid items that extend far beyond the vehicle’s footprint.
- Secure all loads with appropriate tie-downs and check straps periodically, especially on rough roads or at highway speeds.
- Avoid leaving roof cargo on the vehicle for extended periods; remove gear when not needed to reduce wear and wind resistance.
- Be mindful of wind resistance and speed; high winds can increase the effective load and stress on the roof rack.
Concluding note: By adhering to these guidelines, you help preserve handling, fuel efficiency, and the roof’s structural integrity while still enjoying rooftop cargo capabilities.
What to do if you need more capacity
If your gear requirements exceed the 150-pound limit, consider alternatives such as a hitch-mounted rack or a towed trailer for heavy or bulky loads. Never exceed the rated roof load, and consult your dealer if you anticipate regularly transporting loads near or above the limit.
Summary
The Outback Wilderness roof is designed to hold up to 150 pounds (68 kg) of cargo when using the factory roof rails and crossbars. This total includes the rack itself, mounting hardware, and all roof-mounted gear. For safe operation, distribute weight evenly, secure items well, and consider alternatives if you frequently need to carry more than the rated capacity. Always verify model-year specifications in your owner’s manual and follow official guidelines.
