I have the manufacturer base/ski rack set for my 2008 Cooper. I've only used it a few times, and have only had the chance to use it once for actually going skiing. When I got to the mountain, I had a TON of trouble opening the rack to get the skis out, and had even more trouble when I got home - I was outside for probably 45 minutes trying to get the thing open and actually bruised the heel of my hand pretty good. I've heard this is pretty common with ski racks and is not unique to the factory ones and that it is something that just happens with the cold weather, but I was wondering if anyone had any advice/tricks for getting these things to open up. I've heard of people buying inverters so they can plug in a hairdryer. Any other suggestions? Thanks!