How to buy a quality car roof rack
If your car didn't come with a roof rack from the automaker, don't worry. There is still hope. You can purchase a roof rack. They will give you the ability to carry cargo on the roof of your car, as well as attach various cargo management systems (trunks and covers).
A good roof rack should be designed for your make and model. It must also have good load capacity (the load is carried by the trunk, not the roof of the car). It should also have excellent weather resistance. Here are some important tips to consider when choosing a car roof rack:
OEM SuitableA: Obviously, different brands and models have different roof sizes. This makes it somewhat difficult to develop a universal roof rack suitable for any car. Look for one that is rated for your specific make and model as this will ensure it fits well.
Reliable brandA: You will find many manufacturers on the market offering roof racks, but it is generally best to choose a brand that has a proven track record of quality. Thule is one such brand and Yakima is another. You can also contact your automaker and see if they have recommendations.
Load: When it comes to load capacity, the most important thing to keep in mind is weight limit and load distribution. You can not carry cargo directly on the roof of the car, so the cargo will have to be evenly distributed over the roof rack. Make sure it's rated for what you need to use it for (carrying a cargo box, transporting bikes, etc.).
Accessories: Many roof rack manufacturers also offer other accessories for their products, such as roof boxes, bike racks, and the like. Consider the range of accessories available from each manufacturer before making a purchase decision.
Weather resistanceA: Your roof rack will be exposed to the weather for the duration of your ownership. Check the weather resistance rating and indicate if any special care is required to ensure it lasts as long as possible.
A roof rack can give you the ability to carry anything from luggage to snowboards on your roof. So for those long trips where you don't want to crowd the interior of your car, see if a roof rack is right for your car.
