I attempted to install the oem roof rack on my '10 MCS tonight, but things didn't go as smoothly as I hoped they would.

The manual seems to imply that the two plates that get pressed into place by the nut should eventually fit together perfectly flush. No matter what I try, I don't see that happening.

Should the rubber strip be touching the roof when the install is complete? Mine is definitely not. Does anyone have any suggestions on how to finesse or force things in properly? Any key tips or tricks?

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

 

No, the rubber strip should not touch at all.

The rack plates to no mesh perfectly, but they are grabbed quite well by the nut, that's the important part. The first install took at least 4-5 times longer than it take now, I think that the hole needs to be expanded a tiny bit the first time, afterwards the hole is big enough to fit it.

 

Although these instructions were written for a CLubman the concept is the same and give much more detail to how the racks need to be adjusted to fit on properly.

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...-roofrack.html

 

it sounds like you have it installed properly. the two plates on my racks do not fit perfectly together, nor does the rubber strip touch the car.