How do I attach my roof rack?

There are different types of mounting systems available and each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. Below, as an expert in the field of traveling by car and roof racks, I will provide more information about the different types of mounting systems.

The different types of mounting systems for roof racks:

Clamp mounting

The most common form of mounting system is the clamp mounting. This system works by means of clamps that are attached to the roof rails of the car. This type of mounting system is usually easy to install and remove. An advantage of the clamp mounting is that it is suitable for different types of roof rails, both open and closed. In addition, the clamp mounting is often a cheap option. A disadvantage of the clamp mounting is that it can sometimes cause noise pollution while driving and that it is not always the safest option with heavy loads.

Fixed mounting

Another form of mounting system is the fixed mounting. This type of system is often used on cars that do not have roof rails. The roof racks are then attached directly to the roof of the car. An advantage of the fixed mounting is that it is a very sturdy and safe option, especially with heavy loads. In addition, the fixed mounting ensures less noise pollution while driving. A disadvantage of the fixed mounting is that it is usually more expensive than the clamp mounting and the installation process often takes more time and effort.

Magnetic attachment

A third type of mounting system is magnetic mounting. This system uses magnets that attach to the roof of the car. This type of mounting system is often very easy to install and remove. An advantage of the magnetic mounting is that it is suitable for different types of cars and roof types. In addition, it is a very fast option to install and remove. A disadvantage of the magnetic mounting is that it is only suitable for lighter loads and that it is less safe than the clamp or fixed mounting.

T-track mounting

A fourth type of mounting system is the T-track mounting. This type of system uses a T-shaped rail that is attached to the roof racks. The roof racks can then be moved and secured to the rail. An advantage of the T-track mounting is that it is very safe.

Advantages and disadvantages of the roof rack mounting systems

As mentioned earlier, the different mounting systems are roof rail mounting, mounting via the door jamb and mounting via the rain gutter. Below I will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each type.

Roof rail attachment

With a roof rail attachment, the roof rack is attached to the roof rails of the car. This type of mounting is the most commonly used and is often included as standard with a new car. A major advantage of this type of mounting is that the roof rack is easy to assemble and disassemble. In addition, the roof rail mounting ensures a stable and safe mounting of the roof rack. A disadvantage of this type of mounting is that it is less suitable for cars without roof rails.

Attachment via the door jamb

Attachment via the door pillar is especially suitable for cars without roof rails. The roof rack is then clamped to the door pillars of the car. A major advantage of this type of mounting is that it is suitable for almost all cars. In addition, this mounting is often cheaper than a roof rail mounting. A disadvantage of this type of mounting is that it is less stable than a roof rail mounting and that installation can sometimes take a little more time.

Attachment via the rain gutter

Mounting via the rain gutter is mainly used in older cars that do not have roof rails and where mounting via the door pillar is not possible. With this type of attachment, the roof rack is clamped to the rain gutter of the car. An advantage of this type of mounting is that it is suitable for older cars and is often cheaper than a roof rail mounting. A disadvantage is that not all cars have a rain gutter and that it is less stable than a roof rail attachment.

If you are looking for a roof rack, it is important to see which mounting system suits your car best and what advantages and disadvantages each type has. It is also important to pay attention to the maximum load of the roof rack and whether it is suitable for your car.

Now that you know more about the different mounting systems and the ways to mount the roof racks, it is time to make a choice to buy the best roof rack. View the 5 best roof racks here.

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