How much weight can a Subaru Outback roof rack carry?
The roof rack on a Subaru Outback is typically rated to carry up to 165 pounds (75 kilograms) of total roof load, including the rack itself and any gear mounted on it.
That rating can vary slightly by model year and roof rack configuration. Always confirm the exact limit in your owner's manual or on the door jamb sticker, and remember that dynamic loads (driving, wind, braking) can affect safe carrying weight.
Official roof load limit
The standard roof-load rating for most Outback models is 165 lb (75 kg). This applies to the combined weight on the roof, including roof rails, crossbars, attachments, and cargo. The limit is the total roof load and is intended for typical driving conditions; exceeding it can compromise handling and safety.
Model-year and configuration variations
While 165 pounds is common, some years or specific roof rail systems may have slightly different capacities. Always verify for your exact vehicle by checking the owner's manual or the placard on the driver's door jamb. If you have aftermarket crossbars, their weight must be included in the total roof load as well.
To ensure safe use, it's essential to adhere to the official rating for your vehicle's year and roof system. If in doubt, contact a Subaru dealer for a precise figure.
Before loading, consider how the rating applies to your setup and plan accordingly to stay within safe limits.
What counts toward the limit and how it's specified
Understanding what the 165 lb limit covers helps you load safely and avoid overstressing the roof structure.
- The official roof load limit is typically 165 pounds (75 kilograms) for most Outback models.
- The limit includes the weight of the roof rails or crossbars and any cargo.
- Dynamic loads from driving may effectively lower the safe carrying weight, especially at highway speeds or in gusty conditions.
- There can be year-to-year variations or differences by roof-rail configuration; verify for your specific vehicle.
- Aftermarket racks may have their own ratings; the combined roof load must not exceed the published limit.
In practice, staying at or below the official ceiling and distributing weight evenly improves stability and safety on the road.
Practical loading guidelines
To maximize safety and capacity, follow these guidelines when loading a Subaru Outback roof rack.
- Place heavier items centrally and as low as possible to maintain a low center of gravity.
- Distribute weight evenly across crossbars; avoid loading on one side.
- Secure all items with appropriate straps or tie-downs; ensure nothing protrudes beyond the roof edge or creates wind resistance issues.
- Be mindful of dynamic loads and driving conditions; reduce speed and avoid high winds with a full roof load.
- Periodically recheck load security during trips, especially on long journeys or in temperature extremes.
Proper loading and secure attachment help you stay within the rating and maintain safe handling in variable conditions.
How to confirm the exact rating for your Outback
To ensure you have the precise figure for your vehicle, verify through official sources before loading heavy cargo on the roof.
- Check your owner's manual for the roof load limit and any caveats for your year/model.
- Inspect the placard on the driver's door jamb; it often lists the roof load capacity for the specific vehicle.
- Consider the weight of any aftermarket crossbars or carriers and include them in the total.
- When in doubt, contact your Subaru dealer or Subaru customer support for model-year-specific guidance.
Following these steps helps ensure you stay within the rating and maintain safe handling under all conditions.
Summary
Most Subaru Outback models are rated to carry up to 165 pounds (75 kilograms) on the roof, including the rack and cargo. However, the exact figure can vary by year and roof-rail configuration, so always verify with the manual or door placard. Proper loading, distribution, and secure attachment are essential to staying within the limit and ensuring safe driving on the road.
