Hey Everyone,

I just installed my OEM roof rack today on my car and I'm loving it! But my problem is that when I look closely at it, there are these slight gaps. My concern is that I'm afraid water might get in and rust the roof or if it ices over it might break something.

Can anyone tell me if this is normal and or what you have done to fill those spaces.

Thanks!

 

What & where exactly are you seeing the gaps from?

1. rain gutters... it should be a direct fit and no play when tighten correctly.
2. weather rubber strip that stretches from left to right located on top... the cover trim must be loosen on both sides so the strip can be centered so there will be at least an 8th of an inch than can be fastened by the covers (on both sides) to secure it.

I installed mine years ago and there are no gaps. Made sure that everything is centered and no play. Gap can contribute to added wind noise I think.

Oh yea, gas mileage decreased noticeably so I only have the load bars (roof racks) only when needed. At the verge of getting a custom cut fairing made with plexiglass by a local glass outfitters.

Good luck!

 

Can you attach a photo for us to see?

@Joeygonz - My gas mileage seems to have hardly changed, and I keep the cross bars and two of the full bike racks on it at all times. I was afraid I would eventually break the mounting system for the cross bars (stripping it out or something) if I repeatedly removed/reinstalled it. And you can adapt fairings. I bought one and mounted it on to cut down on wind noise (stupid panoramic roof).

 

+1

-Luccia

 

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...4097-rack.html




Should look like these.


https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...f-rack-13.html

 

great to hear that your mgs were not affected as much. i do 95% freeway driving so the impact on aerodynamics is more pronounced. from 37.X mpgs down to 33.X mpgs that adds up based on the driving that i do.

the load bars is off right now but i can take pictures tonight of what i meant on item #2. once all fastened, it should be airtight.

 

I meant for the OP to post a photo of the gaps they were talking about.

You get 37MPG on the highway? I just drove from SC to NY last month and didn't get above 34 (sans roof rack). That was the highest I've ever gotten.

Most of my driving is highway, as well. I would typically average 33MPG, now 32MPG with the roof rack.

 

Yup! I'm kinda light on the gas pedal. I try not to do abrupt take offs but only do it when necessary. No stop-and-go either.. hate rush hour traffic!

Ok, thanks for clarification on the pics. Yea, would like to see OP's pics too.

 

I used to drive a hybrid. I was light on its pedal. The MINI? No way!