What is the weight limit on the roof of the Subaru Outback?
The roof on most Subaru Outback models is rated to carry up to 150 pounds (68 kilograms) in total, including any roof rack or cargo. Always verify the exact limit for your year and trim in the owner's manual or on the door jamb placard, as values can vary by model year.
Understanding the roof load limit
To use the roof safely, you should understand what counts toward the limit and how it’s measured. The official rating is a static load that you place on the roof with the vehicle stationary. It covers everything on the roof, including racks and cargo, and it is separate from the vehicle’s curb weight or passenger load.
What follows explains what counts toward the limit and how to stay within it.
- The total weight on the roof, including cargo and any items stored in roof-mounted carriers or boxes.
- The weight of the roof rack system itself (crossbars, rails, and any mounted accessories) as part of the total roof load.
- Even distribution matters: uneven loading can create higher stress in one area, so try to spread weight evenly across the roof.
Keeping these factors in mind helps prevent overloading the roof structure and maintains vehicle handling and safety.
How to stay within the limit
The following steps help you verify and maintain a safe roof load for your Outback.
- Check the official roof load rating for your model year in the owner's manual or on the door jamb placard near the driver's door.
- Weigh your cargo and any roof-mounted carrier or rack to ensure the total does not exceed the stated limit.
- Include the weight of the roof rack components in your calculation, since the limit is for total weight on the roof.
- Distribute heavy items low and toward the center to minimize wind resistance and curb weight effects on handling.
- Periodically re-check the load after adding or rearranging items, especially when removing or adding cargo.
Following these steps will help you avoid exceeding the roof’s capacity and maintain safe driving performance.
Model-year variations and how to verify yours
While the commonly cited roof load limit for many recent Outback models is 150 pounds (68 kg), some years or configurations could differ. The most reliable sources are your vehicle’s door jamb placard and the owner’s manual for your exact year and trim. If in doubt, contact a Subaru dealer or consult Subaru’s official resources for your VIN.
Where to find the official figure
Look for the placard on the driver's door pillar that lists the gross vehicle weight rating and roof load limit. The owner’s manual also provides the exact value and any year-specific caveats about crossbars or aftermarket accessories.
Beyond the numerical limit, there are safety considerations when loading your Outback’s roof:
- Secure all items with appropriate racks, straps, and anti-sway devices to prevent movement during transit.
- Avoid carrying items higher than the roofline or those that obstruct visibility, lighting, or proximity sensors.
- Be mindful of wind lift, especially at highway speeds, and avoid sharp or pointed items that could damage the roof or interior.
Adhering to these practices reduces the risk of damage to the vehicle and improves overall driving safety when using roof-mounted cargo solutions.
Summary
The Subaru Outback generally allows up to 150 pounds (68 kg) of weight on the roof, including the roof rack and cargo. Always confirm your exact figure from the door placard and the owner's manual for your model year, as variations can occur. Proper loading, secure fastening, and even weight distribution are essential to maintain safety and performance when using roof-mounted cargo.
What is the weight limit on the roof of a 2017 Subaru Outback?
176 lbs
The maximum load limit of the cargo, roof rack and carrying attachments must not exceed 176 lbs( 80 kg). Place the heaviest load at the bottom, nearest the roof, and evenly distribute the cargo. Always properly secure all cargo.
Can I put a roof top tent on a Subaru Outback?
You will need an aftermarket roof rack rated for the dynamic load of whatever the RTT you're buying weighs. Do not rely on factory crossbars, they are not rated for it. The only Outback that has a properly rated roof rack for rooftop tent usage is the Wilderness.
How much weight can the crossbars hold on a Subaru Outback?
150-pound
Factory Crossbars: Handy, But Limited
It's a smart and convenient setup for lighter gear. These work just fine for hauling a cargo box, a few duffel bags, or even your snowboard. With a 150-pound dynamic load rating (and up to 700 pounds static while parked), they're capable enough for simple tasks.
What weight can my car roof take?
The best way to find your static roof load limit is to multiply your dynamic roof load limit by 3-5. So if your car has a 50kg dynamic roof load limit, your static limit would be 150kg to 250kgs.
