Roof Rack Mounts

Mounts versus racks

A roof rack is two things: the rack itself and the parts that attach it. This category covers the second part. Without the right mount, even a strong basket or crossbar system can shift, leak or damage the roof. Mounting kits are matched to the rack and to the vehicle.

You will see three broad types: brackets for a specific basket, fit kits for crossbar systems, and accessory mounts such as a spare tire carrier.

Common mount types

Looking at the sample listings:

• Basket mounting kits, like Smittybilt Defender kits and ARB mounting kits, bolt a cargo basket to the roof or drip rails. Many are listed as no drilling.
• Adjustable mounts, such as Adjust-A-Mount brackets, adapt to a range of vehicles.
• Thule fit kits are pads and clips that fit a specific vehicle to a Thule foot pack, and are chosen by the vehicle's roof type.
• Spare tire mounts attach to certain racks and hold a spare, with bolt pattern and tire size limits stated in the listing.

Roof type matters

Factory roofs differ: bare roofs, roofs with raised rails, flush rails, fixed points and gutters. The mount must match that roof. Mount-to-factory-rail kits are not interchangeable with kits that clamp to the drip rail. Check the number of mounting points in the kit, because a long basket may need four, six or more.

Roof load limits matter. Your owner's manual lists a dynamic roof load limit, which includes the rack's own weight. Do not exceed either the vehicle's limit or the rack and mount rating.

Installation and safety

Follow the instructions for torque and sealing. Where holes are drilled, seal them to prevent leaks and rust. Recheck fasteners after the first few trips, as vibration can loosen them. Heavy loads raise the center of gravity and can affect handling, so load heavy items low and secure cargo with rated straps.

Confirm fitment for your exact year, make, model and cab or door configuration, and check the manufacturer's specifications for the rack and mounts.

Take a moment to compare the number of included hardware pieces and the stated application list on each product page. A kit with a long, specific vehicle list is usually easier to match than a generic bracket set, and the part number lets you cross-check with the rack maker.

Compatibility checks and mistakes to avoid

The most common error is buying a mount for the wrong roof. Identify your roof first: note whether it has factory rails, raised side rails, a flush rail, a bare roof or a sunroof, and measure the spacing of any existing mounting points. Then compare those details with the application listed for the kit.

• Check that crossbars are long enough for the basket width and that the mounting points line up with them.
• Look for a sunroof or antenna that may be blocked by a basket or tire mount.
• Do not stack accessories, such as a spare tire and a heavy cargo load, without adding up the total against the roof rating.
• Inspect brackets after muddy or rough trips, and wipe off grit that could scratch the paint where pads touch the roof.