Best Universal Roof Rack Cross Bars, Mounting Brackets & Platforms

While universal roof racks work with a variety of models and vehicles, their compatibility depends on the car’s roof type and dimensions. That’s why it is important to double check and see if a universal rack will work with your vehicle model.

Yes you can. Most of the universal roof racks out there are designed for DIY installation and even come with detailed instructions. Some even don’t require drilling in order to do so.

Besides being able to fit a variety of vehicles, universal roof racks don’t differ much from regular ones that are vehicle specific. They increase your storage capabilities, and they are compatible with a lot of accessories that’ll be essential for your next getaway. Now, one thing that is also really important to mention is that they are more affordable than vehicle-specific ones, saving you a few bucks here and there.

First, you would want to identify your roof type and whether you have a bare roof, raised rails, or even flush rails, as this will affect compatibility. The next thing on the list is the weight capacity. Make sure that your rack and your vehicle can handle the weight of the gear you want to mount. Finally, double-check your roof’s dimensions and see if your desired universal roof rack is compatible with the accessories you want to run.

Yes, you can! However, before you do, make sure that your universal roof rack is installed and secured properly, and the load that you are carrying is properly balanced.

Yes, it will. When you install a universal roof rack or universal roof rack cross bars, you will have increased wind resistanc,e which will lead to a slight increase in fuel efficiency. Now, while this is nothing major, you should know that this all depends on the model you choose. Some racks are lower profile, some have an integrated wind deflector, and all this can lower the wind resistance, effectively boosting your fuel efficiency. Or at least not affecting it as much.

Unfortunately yes. Each state has its own set of rules and regulations regarding the use of roof racks, including height limitations, load restrictions, etc. So, before you make that purchase, be sure to familiarize yourself with your local laws and regulations.

In order to ensure good performance, you should do regular tightness checks to see if all bolts are tightened well so that the rack does not rattle and scrape your roof, damaging itself and your vehicle. Clean it regularly, or at least after heavy use, and always be on the lookout for any wear and tear so that you can replace any faulty parts on time.

Yes you can but you have to make sure that the rack does not obstruct the sunroof’s operation. Some roof racks are designed to be compatible with vehicles that have sunroofs, and some are not. So, before you order your universal roof rack, make sure to double-check.

Interestingly enough, no. You can install universal roof rack cross bars without rails; however, keep in mind that you will have to find a specific model that can do so.

They are universal roof racks that are specifically designed to work with vehicles that don’t have factory-installed rails. These universal roof rack cross bars without rails can be attached directly to your roof instead of clamping onto already existing rails, which makes them a great option for cars with bare roofs.

Not really. There are some universal cross bars that do not have additional universal roof rack mounting brackets, universal roof rack mounts, or even universal roof rack clamps that you could attach to your existing OEM roof rails. One of the most popular racks like that is the Thule universal roof rack.