How to Install Roof Racks Safely on Any Car

Roof racks are like the Swiss Army knives of car accessories—they turn your vehicle into a travel powerhouse. Need extra space for bikes, kayaks, or an alarming amount of camping gear? Roof racks have you covered. 

But before you dive into that road trip fantasy, you’ll need to make sure your roof rack is installed safely and securely. Installing a roof rack on your vehicle opens up a world of possibilities, whether you’re planning a road trip, carrying extra luggage, or transporting sports equipment like bikes or kayaks. Don't worry, we’ve got you covered with this step-by-step guide.

And if you want to skip the hassle of finding the right gear, Ausgo Roof Racks are your best bet. Plus, they’re 15% off during the Black Friday Sale on all roof racks and other car accessories—because nothing says “adventure-ready” like saving money.

Before we dive in, let’s address some common questions:

Are Roof Racks Hard to Install?

The answer is absolutely not! If you’re wondering, “Are roof racks hard to install?”—relax. They’re much simpler than assembling flat-pack furniture (and with far fewer mystery screws). With the right guidance, roof racks are easy to install on most vehicles. Here’s how:

1. Choose the Right Roof Rack: Selecting the correct roof rack is crucial. Make sure to pick a rack that fits your car. Ausgo Roof Racks come in a variety of models, including options for SUVs, sedans, and utes like the Ford Ranger. To determine the right roof rack for your needs, check your car’s make and model compatibility. Ausgo offers solutions for everything from compact cars to heavy-duty setups for off-road vehicles.
2. Inspect Your Vehicle: Examine your car’s roof for pre-installed mounting points. If your car doesn’t have these, don’t worry—Ausgo’s clamp-style racks fit securely onto most car doors or gutters.
3. Gather Tools and Accessories: Most of the hardware needed for installation is included with Ausgo Roof Racks. For added functionality, you can also explore their accessories, such as light bars, to enhance your setup.

Are Roof Racks Safe?

Yes, when installed correctly, roof racks are safe for use. Here are some safety tips to make sure your setup passes the “shake test”:

• Follow the Manual: The instruction booklet isn’t just for show. Every Ausgo Roof Rack comes with a detailed manual to help you install it properly.
• Distribute Weight Wisely: Improper loading can destabilize your vehicle. Always load heavier items closer to the center of the roof rack for better stability.
• Lock It Down:  Use appropriate straps or bungees to prevent items from shifting during transit.

Can Roof Racks Go on Any Car?

Still wondering, “Can roof racks go on any car?” The answer is no—compatibility is key! While roof racks work on most vehicles, some may have limitations due to size, weight, or attachment methods. Additionally, certain vehicles may not accommodate third-party accessories, so it's essential to check before committing to a specific roof rack.

If you’re unsure about roof rack compatibility for your car, consult your owner’s manual, as it can guide you to the right solution—whether you need roof racks for compact cars or heavy-duty setups for utes like the Ford Ranger. It’s very important to double-check your car’s specifications and the roof rack’s requirements to avoid costly mistakes.

Can Roof Racks Be Removed?

Good news! Roof racks aren’t a permanent commitment (unless you want them to be). Roof racks can be easily removed when not in use. Many Ausgo roof racks feature a quick-release mechanism, making removal hassle-free. This is especially convenient if you only need roof racks occasionally or want to switch them between vehicles.

Roof Racks Installation Steps

Every kit has its own installation instructions, and be sure to follow them precisely for a safe and secure fit. Here are the general steps of how to install a roof rack:

STEP 1: CLEAN AND PREPARE THE ROOF

• Clean the roof of your vehicle thoroughly. A clean surface prevents scratches and ensures a snug fit. Trust us—you don’t want dirt between the brackets and your roof.
• Make sure to dry the roof completely to avoid any movement during installation.

STEP 2: ASSEMBLE THE ROOF RACKS

• Lay out all the components of the roof rack kit, pre-assembling any parts that require it.
• Securely attach the brackets or clamps as per the instructions. If your car has mounting points, align the brackets and secure them with the provided screws. For vehicles without mounting points, clamp-style racks are your go-to.
• Ensure all screws and bolts are fastened securely, being sure not to overtighten them.

STEP 4: ASSEMBLE THE ROOF RACK

• Align the Crossbars: Position the crossbars on the brackets, ensuring they are parallel to each other and evenly spaced. The crossbars should sit flush with the roofline for stability and aerodynamic efficiency.
• Attach the Crossbars to the Brackets: Use the provided hardware to secure the crossbars to the brackets. Tighten all bolts firmly, but avoid over-tightening to prevent damage.

STEP 5: ADJUST AND SECURE

• Use a tape measure to ensure the roof rack is centered on your vehicle. Uneven placement can cause instability and affect handling.
• Double-check all screws, bolts, and clamps to ensure they are securely tightened. Pay special attention to the areas where the roof rack connects to the car.

STEP 6: TEST STABILITY 

• Gently shake the roof rack to check for movement. A properly installed rack should feel solid and not shift under pressure.
• Check the rack’s weight limit and ensure it matches your intended use. Overloading can compromise safety.

STEP 7: ATTACH ACCESSORIES (OPTIONAL)

• If you’re adding accessories like roof racks with light bars or bike mounts, attach them following the accessory instructions.
• Use appropriate straps, ropes, or tie-downs to keep your load stable during transit. Always ensure everything is tightly secured and evenly distributed.

STEP 8: FINAL SAFETY CHECK

• Ensure the roof rack does not obstruct your vehicle’s sunroof, antenna, or other components.
• Attach your gear, strap it down, and give everything one last tug before hitting the road to take a short test drive to confirm there’s no noise, vibration, or instability.

Roof Racks Australia: Why Choose Ausgo?

If you’re searching for “roof racks Australia” or “roof racks for sale,” your search ends with Ausgo. Ausgo Roof Racks are designed to handle Australian terrains, offering premium quality and versatile designs to suit any adventure.

Whether you’re after roof racks with light bars for nighttime trips or durable options for off-road adventures, Ausgo delivers reliability and functionality you can trust. Shop now and enjoy 15% off during the Black Friday Sale—available for a limited time!

Looking for the perfect roof rack for your vehicle? Ausgo offers a wide range of roof racks and accessories tailored to your car model, all from trusted brands.

Get yours today and make every trip safer, easier, and just a little more stylish. Ready to level up your car’s storage game? Don’t miss the Ausgo Black Friday Sale—save 15% on roof racks for Ford Ranger, SUVs, sedans, and more.

Adventure is calling, and with Ausgo, your gear is coming with you.