How much weight can the roof of a Crosstrek hold?

The roof on a Subaru Crosstrek is rated to carry up to about 150 pounds (68 kilograms) of static load when a proper roof rack is installed. This rating is the maximum recommended weight on the roof, and it includes the weight of the rack itself as well as the cargo. Always stay under this limit and consider your vehicle’s overall weight rating when planning roof loads.

Understanding the roof-load rating

Knowing what counts toward the rating helps you stay safe and compliant. The official roof-load figure is a ceiling for the entire roof assembly when properly equipped, and it is tied to the vehicle’s safety and drivetrain performance. Ratings can vary slightly by model year or trim, so always confirm with your owner’s manual for your specific Crosstrek.

What contributes to the rating

The following factors determine what counts toward the roof’s load limit and how it’s applied on Crosstrek models.

• Static roof-load limit: roughly 150 pounds (68 kilograms) with roof racks properly installed.


• Weight of the roof rack system itself (crossbars, mounts) included in the total load.


• Cargo placed on the roof (luggage, bikes, kayaks, roof boxes, etc.).


• Distributed weight across the roof versus concentrated weight in one area.


• Vehicle-related considerations: the rating assumes the vehicle is loaded within its GVWR and payload limits.

Staying within these guidelines helps protect the roof structure, maintain handling, and avoid triggering safety systems that rely on weight distribution.

Safe loading guidelines for the Crosstrek roof

The following practices help you stay within the official roof-load limit and maintain safe driving dynamics.

• Use a roof rack system that is specifically rated for the Crosstrek and installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.


• Distribute weight evenly across the roof; place heavier items in the middle and keep the center of gravity as low as possible.


• Secure cargo with high-quality tie-downs or straps; ensure everything is firmly fastened before driving.


• Avoid overhanging or unstable loads that could catch wind or be affected by road motion.


• Do not exceed the total roof-load limit of 150 pounds (68 kilograms), and consider reducing the load when traveling on rough roads or at higher speeds.


• Check the load after long trips or when removing/replacing items, and re-secure if needed.

Following these steps helps ensure you stay within the rating and maintain safe handling and braking performance on the road.

What to check before you travel

Before a trip, verify the roof load against the Crosstrek’s GVWR and payload capacity, ensure your racks are properly installed, and recheck strap tension after highway driving or rough terrain. If you’re carrying bulky gear like bikes or kayaks, consider alternate transport arrangements if you approach the weight limit.

Summary

The Crosstrek’s roof is typically rated for about 150 pounds (68 kilograms) of static weight when using a proper roof rack. This total includes the rack itself and the cargo. Always verify your model year’s exact rating in the owner’s manual, and load thoughtfully—distribute weight evenly, secure items, and stay mindful of dynamic loading and overall vehicle weight limits for safe, compliant travel.

How much weight can you put on top of a Subaru Crosstrek?

The Subaru Crosstrek has a dynamic roof weight limit of 176 pounds (80 kg) while the vehicle is moving and a static limit of 700 pounds (317 kg) while it is parked. It's crucial to remember that these limits apply to the total weight, including the crossbars and any gear you are carrying. Always check your owner's manual and the load capacity of your specific crossbars, as some aftermarket bars may have a lower limit.
 
Dynamic weight limit (while driving)

• Weight: 176 pounds (80 kg)
• Important: This is the weight your vehicle can handle while moving. The total weight of your crossbars, plus everything on them (like luggage, bikes, or a roof box), cannot exceed this limit. 

Static weight limit (while parked)

• Weight: 700 pounds (317 kg) 
• Important: This limit applies only when the vehicle is stationary, such as when you are camping with a rooftop tent with occupants inside. The weight must be evenly distributed across the roof and the vehicle must be on level ground. 

Important considerations

• Crossbar capacity: Some aftermarket crossbars may have their own lower weight limits, so always check the manufacturer's specifications for the bars themselves. 
• Manual: Refer to your Crosstrek's owner's manual for the most accurate information, as limits can sometimes vary by model year. 
• Safety: It is recommended to stay well below the maximum weight to ensure safety, especially during dynamic use. 

How much can a Subaru Crosstrek roof hold?

At speed, the Crosstrek has a roof rail capacity of 176 pounds, meaning that the tent – when stowed and at speed – has to weigh less."

Can I put a rooftop tent on a Subaru Crosstrek?

The Crosstrek's factory-installed roof rails provide a strong and stable foundation for mounting a lightweight rooftop tent, ensuring both safety and functionality.

How much weight can my Subaru Crosstrek carry?

The Subaru Crosstrek's towing capacity is 1,500 pounds for most trims (Base, Premium, Sport, and Limited) and 3,500 pounds for the Wilderness trim. When towing, remember the weight of the trailer and its cargo count towards the total capacity. 
Towing capacity by trim

• Base, Premium, Sport, Limited: 1,500 pounds
• Wilderness: 3,500 pounds
• Hybrid (model-dependent): 1,000 pounds 

Important considerations

• Check your owner's manual: The most accurate information for your specific vehicle can be found in the owner's manual. 
• Total weight: The towing capacity is the combined weight of the trailer and all its cargo. 
• Tongue weight: The trailer hitch also has a tongue weight limit, which is the downward force on the hitch. For the Wilderness trim, this is typically around 350 pounds, and for other models, it's usually around 150-200 pounds, depending on the model year. 
• Trailer brakes: Some states require trailer brakes for heavier loads. 
• Trailer hitch: Ensure your vehicle is properly equipped with the correct trailer hitch and ball mount to achieve its maximum capacity.