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Whether you're planning a weekend camping trip or simply want to transport larger items, a Subaru roof rack can transform your vehicle's capabilities. Our carefully selected recommendations balance durability, load capacity, and ease of installation to help you find the perfect rack for your needs.

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Reviews

for Subaru WRX VA/VB 2015-Up Roof Rack Cross Bar Metal Bracket Fix Point Alu Black

Tailored specifically for Subaru WRX VA/VB models from 2015 onwards, this roof rack system transforms your vehicle into a mobile storage solution without the need for drilling or permanent modifications. The lightweight aluminum construction can handle up to 400kg when stationary and 75kg while in motion, making it suitable for everything from bike racks to camping gear. The built-in locking system and rubber sealing strips work together to secure the load while minimizing wind noise during transit.

DNA Motoring Pt-ztl-8136-bk Subaru Forester Roof Top Aluminum Side Rail Cross Bar

These sleek aluminum cross bars bolt directly onto your Subaru Forester's OEM roof rails, adding serious cargo-carrying capability without any modifications. The powder-coated bars and ABS plastic brackets are built to last, while the dual-opening cargo box gives you hassle-free access to your stored gear. With a generous 68-inch length and heavy-duty construction, these bars handle even the heaviest loads with ease.

Subaru Forester Roof Rack

These aluminum crossbars bring much-needed vertical space to your Subaru Forester's raised side rails, perfect for carrying surfboards, bikes, or ski equipment. At just over 42 inches long, they span your roof with a sturdy 200-pound load capacity - more than enough for weekend getaways with family and friends. The compact design keeps installation simple and hassle-free.

Subaru Outback Roof Luggage Carrier Side Rail

These roof rails from Subaru slide along the sides of your vehicle, providing a sleek base for your crossbars. With the original equipment manufacturer part number 91151AN02C, these side rails are specifically designed to work with Subaru's roof luggage system.

Heka Subaru Roof Rack

These sleek aluminum roof bars transform your Subaru XV Crosstrek into a portable storage solution, handling up to 165 pounds of gear when loaded correctly. The adjustable design features a longer front crossbar for optimal fit, while the easy-click mounting system lets you add or remove the bars in minutes without any drilling or modification.

Genuine Subaru Ski Carrier

The Thule Ski Rack provides a secure attachment point for skis and snowboards with its Power Grip mounting system. The durable machined exterior construction ensures a reliable carry option for Subaru models from 2010 to 2024, including Impreza, Forester, Outback, Crosstrek, and Ascent variants. Most customers find the installation straightforward, though a few have noted issues with missing parts in some packages.

Subaru Outback Wilderness Roof Racks

These crossbars were made specifically for the Subaru Outback Wilderness, with a distinctive wing shape that cuts through the air like a pro. The bars attach directly to the roof rails, giving you plenty of room for gear while maintaining that clean, quiet ride you expect from a Subaru. The paint finish makes them look sharp on your vehicle, though you might want to check compatibility with the Crosstrek Wilderness models first.

for Subaru Impreza 2007-Up Roof Rack Cross Bar Metal Bracket Fix Point Alu Silver

Crafted from lightweight aluminum alloy, this roof rack cross bar system clips seamlessly onto your Subaru Impreza's fixed-point roof rails without needing drilling or cutting. The dual-purpose design handles up to 400kg statically while remaining aerodynamic enough to minimize wind noise thanks to rubber sealing strips at the base. Each braided metal bracket package includes four head brackets, two aluminum profiles, and necessary mounting hardware for a quick, secure installation that's proven capable of carrying everything from surfboards to camping gear.

ISSYAUTO Subaru Forester Roof Racks

The upgraded 2022 model features lockable cross bars that replace the original equipment, providing secure mounting for various roof-top accessories like bike carriers and surfboards. Made from aluminum, these cross bars reduce wind noise at speeds over 75 mph while remaining light enough not to interfere with the vehicle's skylight operation. The bars come pre-labeled "front" and "rear" for straightforward installation that doesn't require extra clamping mechanisms.

Omac Lockable Roof Rack Cross Bars for Subaru Crosstrek

These sleek black roof cross bars transform your Subaru Crosstrek into a versatile transport vehicle, with durable aluminum construction that's engineered for strength and longevity. The European-inspired design cleverly combines style with functionality, featuring T-tracks and waterproof capabilities that handle everything from bikes to kayaks with ease. The anti-theft lock adds an extra layer of security to your setup, while the quick-installation design makes it a breeze to add or remove the bars when you need them.

Buyer's Guide

A Subaru roof rack adds versatility to your vehicle by extending its carrying capacity, but selecting the right one requires considering several key factors. This guide will help you understand the important aspects of roof rack selection to ensure you choose a compatible and practical solution.

Compatibility and Vehicle Fit

Start by checking your Subaru's roof rails or available mounting points. Not all models have integrated rails, so you may need to install them first. Measure the length, width, and pitch of your vehicle's roof rails to determine the maximum load capacity your rack can support. Many modern Subarus feature factory-roof rails that simplify installation.

Load Capacity and Durability

Calculate your intended load weight and choose a roof rack with at least 25% excess capacity. For example, if you plan to carry 50 kg, select a rack rated for 75 kg. Consider materials like aluminum or stainless steel for lasting performance, especially important for frequent outdoor use.

Load Distribution and Stability

Evaluate how the rack distributes weight across your vehicle's roof to prevent sagging or uneven loading. Look for racks that allow adjusting bar spacing and have crossbars of consistent thickness. For heavier loads, consider a rack with a wider base for better stability.

Installation and Removal

Think about how quickly and easily you need to install and remove your roof rack. Some models require tools and take time to set up, while others offer quick-connect systems. Consider where you'll store the rack when not in use – a compact design saves space in your garage or storage area.

FAQ

What types of roof racks does Subaru offer?

Subaru offers both factory-installed and aftermarket roof racks. The factory racks are specifically designed to fit and connect directly to the vehicle's roof rails, providing a seamless appearance and integrating with Subaru's Multi/functions system for added convenience. Aftermarket racks offer more customization options and can be installed by professional mechanics or enthusiasts.

Popular Subaru models with factory racks include the Outback, Forester, and Ascent. For these vehicles, Subaru offers roof rack systems with capacities ranging from 60 to 150 pounds, depending on the model year and specific rack configuration.

How do Subaru's roof racks compare to generic aftermarket models?

Subaru's factory roof racks are engineered to match the vehicle's structure and provide superior stability and performance. They feature integrated lights, crossbars, and mounting points for accessories, reducing the need for separate purchases. Additionally, these factory racks typically include dedicated hardware for mounting certain accessories, streamlining the loading process.

Aftermarket racks often offer more versatile mounting options and can be adapted to different vehicle types. However, generic racks may not align perfectly with the vehicle's design, potentially affecting fuel efficiency and cargo security. It's important to verify compatibility with Subaru's specific roof rail design to ensure proper installation and performance.

Are Subaru roof racks easy to install?

Most Subaru roof racks can be installed by the vehicle owner using the included mounting hardware and instructions. The process typically involves securing the rack to the factory roof rails and attaching any crossbars or accessories. However, for complete systems including lights and crossbars, professional installation may be recommended to ensure proper alignment and functionality.

Users report the installation process taking between 1-3 hours, depending on the complexity of the rack system and the user's experience with vehicle modifications. Subaru dealerships and authorized service centers offer installation services for both factory and aftermarket racks.

What are the weight capacity options for Subaru roof racks?

Subaru's roof rack systems come with weight capacities ranging from 60 to 150 pounds, depending on the model and configuration. The basic factory racks typically offer a 60-80 pound capacity for simple accessory mounting. Higher-capacity options include the 100-pound Premium system and the 150-pound Adventure system, which are compatible with multi-person hiking and camping setups.

Subaru recommends always loading cargo below the rack's rated capacity and maintaining a balanced load distribution. The maximum load should be evenly distributed between both roof rails to maintain vehicle stability and prevent uneven weight distribution.

How do Subaru roof racks affect vehicle performance?

Factory-installed Subaru roof racks have minimal impact on vehicle performance due to their integrated design and lightweight construction. The added weight is evenly distributed across the roof rails, and the system's aerodynamic design helps maintain fuel efficiency and stability at higher speeds. The Multi/functions system can also adjust rack-mounted lights and accessories for optimized performance during nighttime driving.

Aftermarket racks may affect performance more significantly, particularly when installed on older vehicles or those with lighter roof structures. Users report slight decreases in fuel efficiency and increased aerodynamic drag, especially with fully loaded roof racks. Proper installation and maintaining the recommended load limits can mitigate these effects.

What maintenance requirements do Subaru roof racks have?

Subaru roof racks require regular inspection and maintenance to ensure safe operation. Check mounting hardware for tightness monthly, and examine the rack for any signs of corrosion, cracks, or deformation. For factory racks, particularly those with integrated lighting, check bulbs and wiring for functionality.

Clean the roof rack at least twice per year, removing debris and grime that can affect attachment points. In winter, clear snow and ice from the rack to prevent damaging the mounting hardware. If you frequently tow with the rack, perform additional periodic inspections to check for wear on the mounting points and crossbars.