How much weight can Subaru Forester Wilderness roof hold?
The Forester Wilderness roof can hold up to 150 pounds (68 kilograms) when loaded with Subaru-approved racks. This is the official ceiling for the model, including the weight of crossbars and cargo, and applies to the Wilderness trim as part of Subaru’s current specifications.
Official roof-load rating
Understanding the roof-load rating helps owners plan what to carry on the roof and how to mount it safely. The following points summarize Subaru’s current guidance for the Forester Wilderness and other recent Forester versions.
- Maximum roof load: 150 pounds (68 kg) total, including crossbars and cargo.
- Requires Subaru-approved roof racks or crossbars installed per the owner's manual.
- Rating covers dynamic loads (in motion) and static loads; do not exceed the limit under any condition.
- Heavier aftermarket racks or attachments can affect capacity; verify the combined weight with the rack system.
In practice, this means plan gear and rack combinations so the total on the roof never exceeds 150 pounds, and always follow the installation instructions for the racks you’re using.
Practical loading guidelines
Even within the official limit, safe loading depends on how weight is distributed and secured. The guidance below helps ensure stability, handling, and braking performance are not compromised by a roof load.
- Distribute weight evenly from side to side and front to back; keep the center of gravity as low as possible and centered on the vehicle.
- Secure cargo with rated straps and anchors; ensure items cannot shift during driving or on rough roads.
- Place heavier items toward the middle of the roof and as close to the vehicle’s center as possible to minimize wind lift and handling changes.
- Avoid overhanging loads and ensure racks are fully engaged with the roof rails; check fitment after long stretches of driving or off-road use.
Following these practices helps you maximize safety while using the roof for kayaks, roof boxes, bikes, or other gear up to the rated limit.
Alternatives to roof cargo
If your cargo needs exceed the practical limits of roof loading or you want to minimize wind resistance and handling changes, consider alternatives that keep weight off the roof.
- Hitch-mounted cargo carriers for bulkier gear.
- Interior or rear cargo solutions, such as roof-boxes mounted inside or behind the rear seats, where feasible.
- Towable cargo trailers or hitch-mounted racks for larger items when permitted.
These options can reduce roof stress and improve fuel economy and vehicle dynamics while still providing ample cargo capacity.
Summary
The Subaru Forester Wilderness shares the standard roof-load rating of 150 pounds (68 kg) with other Forester models when using approved racks. Always consult the model-year specific owner's manual and use Subaru-approved equipment to stay within the limit. Proper loading, weight distribution, and secure fastening are essential to maintaining safe handling, especially on rough roads or at higher speeds. For most campers and outdoor enthusiasts, a well-planned roof setup within the 150-pound limit offers reliable versatility without compromising safety.
What is the weight limit on a Subaru roof tent?
150 pounds
SUBARU warranties do not cover vehicle damage resulting from use of a roof tent. " And the load limit on the roof is: 150 pounds.
Can a Subaru Forester hold a rooftop tent?
Can You Put a Roof Top Tent on a Subaru Forester? Yes, you can absolutely put a rooftop tent on a Subaru Forester!
What is the roof load rating for a Subaru Forester?
The Subaru Forester has a dynamic roof weight limit of 176 lbs (80 kg) while driving, which is the maximum weight you can have on the roof while the vehicle is in motion. The static weight limit, or the limit when the vehicle is parked, is 650-700 lbs (approx. 300 kg). It is important to include the weight of the roof rack itself when calculating the total load to stay within limits.
Dynamic vs. Static Weight Limits
- Dynamic (while driving): 176176176 lbs (808080 kg)
- Static (when parked): 650−700650 minus 700650−700 lbs ( 300space 300 300 kg)
Important Considerations
- Total weight: The total weight on the roof includes the weight of the roof rack itself, plus any gear or accessories on top of it.
- Wilderness models: Some higher trims, like the Wilderness, may have a higher capacity. For example, a 2022 Wilderness model has a dynamic capacity of 220220220 lbs and a static limit of 880880880 lbs.
- Aftermarket racks: If you plan to use a roof-top tent, it is highly recommended to check the weight rating of your specific aftermarket crossbars, as they may be different from the factory-installed ones.
- Damage risk: Exceeding these limits could damage the vehicle, so it's best to stay within the manufacturer's recommendations.
How much can the Forester Wilderness roof rack hold?
Numerous exterior and interior details, including water resistant StarTex® seating surfaces, make the Forester Wilderness especially suited to carrying outdoors gear, even when wet or muddy. The ladder-type roof rack has a dynamic load capacity to 220 lb., and can support up to 800 lb.
