Although today's cars have boots with a large capacity, there are many things we cannot carry inside them, such as surfboards, bicycles or heavy furniture, like a desk for example.
In these situations, you turn to a vehicle accessory known as a roof rack, an add-on that is fitted to the top of the car and allows us to transport larger and heavier items safely and efficiently. However, not all roof racks are the same or serve the same purposes; choosing the right one is essential not only for aesthetics, but also for aerodynamics and road safety.
From classic crossbars for carrying roof boxes to specific racks for bicycles, kayaks or surfboards, the options are endless. In this article, we will analyse the different types of fixing systems according to your vehicle's roof and everything you can legally transport on them. Furthermore, if you're looking for a more economical option to equip your vehicle, we'll give you the keys to finding a second-hand car roof rack in perfect condition, ensuring your investment is as smart as it is safe.
What is a car roof rack?
It is a support system, made up of structural bars that are installed transversally on the roof of the vehicle.
Its function is to serve as an external loading platform, allowing us to transport bulky objects that, due to their shape or size, do not fit in the boot or the rear seats of the car. In other words, it is a way of increasing the available space and providing extra storage space in the vehicle.
Are there universal car roof racks?
There is a lot of talk about universal car roof racks. But, in reality, even though some models are marketed as such, they don't actually exist as such.
This is because each car make and model has a different structure. In other words, what is "universal" is the aluminium and steel tube, but the feet or fixings (which are the parts that connect the bar to the car) are specific to each model.
What types of car roof racks are there?
Car roof racks are categorised according to the fixing system, so when buying one, you should first look at the roof of your vehicle.
Raised railing
This model consists of bars that come as standard and run from front to back, leaving a free gap between the bar and the car roof. They are the easiest to install, as the crossbars clamp onto the rail.
Integrated railing
These are longitudinal bars that sit flush against the roof, with no gap underneath. These are the most common on family cars and SUVs. They require specific feet that fit into the inner or outer rail channel of the bar.
Fixpoints
As you know, car roofs are smooth, and you can fit what are known as Fixpoints — four small plastic covers. When removed, they reveal the thread for screwing in the roof rack foot.
Smooth roof
This is the type of roof rack used on vehicles that have no rails or anchor points. For this, the roof rack is held by claws that "bite" into the edge of the roof, right at the point where the door closes. To use this type, you need an installation kit.
What can you carry on a car roof rack?
You've probably seen people with very heavily loaded car roofs, but can you actually do that?
No, you must comply with the General Traffic Regulations, which state that the load must be placed in such a way that it does not obscure the lighting devices, the number plate or the driver's manual signals.
Luggage and items
When you set off on a trip, you can carry luggage and items that you can't fit in the boot, such as:
- Suitcases.
- Pushchairs.
- Bags.
As an additional tip, in this case it is advisable to have a roof box or enclosed carrier integrated into the roof rack, to protect the luggage from the outside weather.
Sports equipment
Are you someone who likes to do sport, such as surfing, kayaking or cycling in the mountains?
In that case, you will need some additional accessories that attach to the roof rack itself, such as bike carriers so the bicycle travels upright, ski racks to secure them to the roof, or specific board supports, which are rubber or foam cradles that adapt to the shape of the board's hull bar.
If you don't, road patrol officers can fine you if they catch you.
Indivisible objects
Sometimes you need to carry objects that cannot be divided or that are very large, such as ladders, mattresses or wooden planks. What happens in these cases?
You need to take into account how they can protrude:
- They must not protrude from the front.
- At the rear, items can only protrude up to 10% of the vehicle's length. If it is a beam or ladder, up to 15% is permitted.
- It must not protrude from the sides.
Furniture
This is what vehicle owners are most unsure about, such as whether you can carry a bed base on the roof rack or other types of furniture. Traffic regulations do not prohibit it, however, a number of precautions must be taken to avoid being stopped by the Civil Guard or local police.
Furniture dimensions:
As we mentioned earlier:
- It must not protrude from the front.
- At the rear it can protrude a maximum of 15%.
- It must not protrude from the sides.
Also, if it protrudes from the rear, it is mandatory to hang the V-20 sign at the end of the furniture. Otherwise, you could face a fine of between €80 and €200.
Securing the furniture
You cannot simply place the furniture on the rack, nor can you use bungee cords or elastic straps, as they can give way in the wind and movement.
You should use what are known as ratchet straps, which are nylon straps with a metal tensioner that allows you to tighten the load as much as possible. It is also advisable to have previously covered the furniture with a blanket or tarpaulin.
Maximum authorised weight
You also need to take into account the maximum weight authorised by law, which is 50–75 kilos. If you exceed that, it will break. To give you an idea, a double mattress or a solid wood table can exceed that weight.
Furthermore, not only would the roof rack break, but the car roof would also be dented.
Why buy a second-hand car roof rack?
Whether you only use it occasionally or because the previous one has broken down, buying a second-hand one will always be the best option to save yourself a tidy sum.
Also, remember that universal roof racks don't really exist, so if you're looking for one for your car, especially if it's an older model, a salvage yard will be your best option for finding a compatible one.
Your best option will always be to go to a salvage yard and search their catalogue. This way you will ensure compatibility and, at the same time, save money for other parts or components of the car.