How Roof Racks Could Impact Your Warranty
If you like to go on road trips or often spend time outdoors, you have faced the dilemma of not having enough space to fit all of your and your passengers’ stuff in your car. Jamming bags and outdoor gear into the trunk isn’t the most practical idea, especially if you must bring bulky and odd-shaped items. This is where the benefits of installing roof racks in your vehicle get into the picture. As a space multiplier, a roof rack could be your best friend. But with so many options, how do you find the perfect one that suits your vehicle and your needs? This guide also offers tips on how roof racks could impact your warranty, if it does.
What Is a Roof Rack?
Think of a car roof rack as your mobile storage shed. It allows you to stow away your gear or large and oddly shaped cargo on your road trips or weekend adventures, be it extra luggage, ice coolers, bicycles, kayaks, surfboards, etc., all without sacrificing precious interior space.
Roof racks come in different shapes and sizes. Generally, however, they come in essential components, namely:
• Towers or feet – attaches crossbar to the roof
• Crossbars – the horizontal bar that holds the cargo
• Fit kit – a customizable attachment system that secures the roof rack to the specific vehicle
Many vehicles nowadays come with built-in raised side rails to accommodate the roof rack, but foot packs can also be attached to your vehicle’s rain gutters to fit the specific roof rack you want.
Choosing The Right Roof Rack
Before you grab the first, best, or cheapest item you find, it’s important that you know what to look for.
Compatibility
While there are universal types, know that not all roof racks fit every car. So, make sure you get the right one specifically designed for your car’s make, model, and roof type. Your vehicle may already have rails or grooves to accommodate a roof rack, this will installation easier. Otherwise, you may need a custom kit before installing a rack.
Purpose
What do you usually do with your vehicle? What large things do you need extra cargo space for? Do you often go biking, snowboarding, or kayaking? Do you want a rack that can accommodate a roof tent? There are racks designed for specific purpose, you may want to get them to properly secure your stuff.
Weight Capacity
Your vehicle’s roof may look sturdy, but it has a load limit. Check out your vehicle’s manual for the details and consider the weight of the rack before buying. Most vehicles have a load capacity of 65 to 165 lbs., depending on the type of roof. Overloading your vehicle’s roof will not only lead to dents, it can be a safety hazard. Some states even consider it illegal to install heavy racks.
Aerodynamics
There are roof racks designed to minimize win resistance; they are called aerodynamic roof racks. You may want to opt for them, especially if you go on long drives as they can help minimize drag, hence, improve your fuel efficiency.
Installation
Some roof racks can be installed easily and quickly without the use of special equipment, while others may need professional installation. Choose a setup that is comfortable with your needs and preferences, especially if you plan to remove it often.
Pros & Cons of Installing a Roof Rack
Pros
• Added cargo space – It adds extra room for all your stuff, allowing you to transport large items such as bikes, kayaks, surfboards, or other things that don’t normally fit inside your vehicle.
• Keeps interior neat—Rather than cramming everything, including dirty and oddly-shaped items, inside your car, a roof rack lets you enjoy camping, road trips, and outdoor activities that often require lots of equipment and gear.
• Comfort – By keeping large items outside the vehicle, you keep your passengers comfortable throughout the car ride.
Cons
• Clearance issues – Depending on the size of the roof rack you get, you need to be mindful of your vehicle’s clearance, especially in low-clearance spaces like drive-thrus, parking garage, etc.
• Noise – Depending on the type of roof rack you get, you may notice wind noise in your vehicle, especially in high-speed driving.
• Increased fuel consumption – This of course, depends on the weight and shape of your rack and the stuff place on it. Aerodynamic roof racks obviously, will have better gas mileage.
Roof Rack Safety and Maintenance
To ensure safety and a comfortable ride in your vehicle, distribute the weight evenly on the roof rack. Secure everything with the right straps or tie-downs to keep your stuff from shifting during the drive. Moreover, always consider the load limit of your roof to avoid damage and keep your vehicle safe.
Lastly, inspect your roof rack regularly. This will avoid mishaps on the road by ensuring everything is tight and in its place.
The perfect roof rack for you depends on the type of activities and road trips you plan to take. Once you know what you plan to stow away in your roof rack, you are halfway done finding the right one.
An additional benefit to keeping up with the condition of your roof rack and vehicle is that it can prevent voiding your extended warranty, ensuring less out-of-pocket expenses on repairs and parts replacements. Make sure you learn about how roof racks could impact your warranty.
How Roof Racks Could Impact Your Warranty
First, installing roof racks will not void your warranty. It is true for most car modifications and accessories unless explicitly stated in your warranty contract.
However, it could be a ground for a denied warranty claim if your roof rack is not a fit for your vehicle or not properly installed. Your warranty could also be void if your installation causes damage to the vehicle, or your claim will not be approved if your roof rack installation damaged any covered components.
The best way to prevent this trouble is to hire a professional to install roof racks to avoid warranty complications.
FAQs
Do roof racks void warranty?
No, installing a roof rack won’t void your warranty. However, it is important to consider the right roof rack to fit your vehicle to ensure that it won’t cause damage and will be a useful modification.
It is best to consult your car’s manufacturer and warranty provider about installing a roof rack and other modifications to determine how it will impact your warranty.
How does a roof rack affect your vehicle?
Adding a roof rack can increase your vehicle’s wind resistance. Therefore, you can expect a slight increase in fuel consumption. Fortunately, there are many roof racks with an aerodynamic design to address this common issue.
What do you need roof racks for?
A roof rail and rack installation is essential to store and transport luggage, bicycles, kayaks, and other sporting equipment that won’t fit inside your vehicle.
What voids the warranty on a car?
Tampering with the odometer and a salvaged title can cause void a warranty. In addition, engaging in activities in which your vehicle is not designed for can cause the denial of your warranty claim. Make it a habit to read your warranty booklet to know the terms and avoid any activities that can result in a voided warranty.
