4 best universal roof rack

A Universal Roof Rack, in the context of automotive accessories and cargo management, is a versatile and adjustable roof-mounted system designed to carry various types of cargo, including luggage, sports equipment, camping gear, and more. These roof racks are compatible with a wide range of vehicle makes and models, making them a popular choice for individuals who need additional cargo space. Here's what you need to know about universal roof racks:

Compatibility: Universal roof racks are designed to fit most vehicles with factory-installed roof rails or a bare roof. Some models may require additional adapters or mounting kits to ensure a secure fit.
Types of Roof Racks:
- Crossbars: Universal roof racks often consist of crossbars that run across the width of the vehicle's roof. These can be adjusted to accommodate different cargo sizes and shapes.
- Cargo Baskets: Cargo baskets are designed to hold bulkier items and are typically open in design. They are ideal for carrying camping equipment, sports gear, or larger cargo.
- Cargo Carriers: Cargo carriers are enclosed containers that provide protection for your belongings from the elements. They are suitable for luggage, camping gear, and other items that need weatherproofing.
Installation: Universal roof racks are typically easy to install, with most requiring no drilling or permanent modifications to your vehicle. They attach to existing roof rails, door frames, or use other secure mounting methods.
Weight Capacity: Roof racks have weight capacity limits that vary depending on the design and materials. It's important to check the manufacturer's specifications to ensure that the rack can safely support the weight of your cargo.
Security: Many universal roof racks come with locking mechanisms to help secure your cargo and prevent theft. Additionally, some racks include features like key locks to secure the rack itself to the vehicle.
Usage: Universal roof racks are versatile and can be used for a wide range of activities, including road trips, camping, skiing, biking, and more. They free up interior space and allow you to transport bulky or oversized items.
Maintenance: Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and checking for loose bolts or hardware, is essential to ensure the roof rack remains secure and functional.
Accessories: Depending on your needs, you can complement your universal roof rack with accessories like tie-down straps, cargo nets, or specialized carriers for items like bicycles or skis.
Legal Considerations: Be aware of local and state regulations regarding the use of roof racks. Overloading the rack or improperly securing cargo can lead to safety hazards and legal issues.

In summary, a universal roof rack is a valuable automotive accessory that expands your vehicle's cargo-carrying capacity. They are versatile, compatible with a wide range of vehicles, and come in various styles to accommodate different types of cargo. Proper installation and maintenance are crucial for safe and efficient use of a universal roof rack.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best universal roof rack on the market

Seah Hardware Universal Roof Rack Cross-Bars 2 PC. 48 Inches Black

Seah Hardware

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The straps go through the door frames, and attach the rack on top of the roof, it fits almost all four door car without side rails, it fit four door car with side rails which height is less than 6.4 cm from roof, because the distance from car roof to bottom of bar is 6.5 cm. It can not be installed on two door car, because there is too small room between the two bars in two door cars. For sliding door, if the fixation of sliding door is not upper fixation, it will fit, because the tie down will go through the car. Comes with a pair of crossbars 48". Heavy duty steel tube make it strong and safe. Crossbars are adjustable in position. Install in minutes and disassemble in seconds. With water proof ratchet tie down. *DO NOT OVER TIGHTEN!* 1800 lbs ratchet tie down ensures the roof bar will remain firmly on your car top. Whether it’s a kayak, mountain bike, or ladder, these cross bars will get your favorite things to anywhere.

The straps go through the door frames, and attach the rack on top of the roof, it fits almost all four door car without side rails, it fit four door car with side rails which height is less than 6.4 cm from roof, because the distance from car roof to bottom of bar is 6.5 cm. It can not be installed on two door car, because there is too small room between the two bars in two door cars.
Comes with a pair of crossbars 48". Heavy duty steel tube make it strong and safe. 4 PC 1/4" x 2" screw and 4 PC 1/4" lock nut.
Crossbars are adjustable in position. Install in minutes and disassemble in seconds.
With water proof ratchet tie down.
*DO NOT OVER TIGHTEN!* 1800 lbs ratchet tie down ensures the roof bar will remain firmly on your car top. Whether it’s a kayak, mountain bike, or ladder, these cross bars will get your favorite things to anywhere.

User questions & answers

Question:	How long are the ratchet tie downs
Answer:	It entirely depends on the shape of your car. If your roof is substantially curved to allow space for your head then there's a chance your head will be touching the strap sometimes. I'm 5'11" and drive a Nissan Rogue Sport and the straps are really a hassle. You can't wear hats at all or your head will constantly be in contact with a strap. And yeah I've moved it forward and backward.
Question:	Will fit 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe
Answer:	The weight limit is 150 lbs.
Question:	The last picture looks like the straps would be in the way when driving. Do the straps get in the way of peoples heads when they get in the car
Answer:	Save your money. It’s junk!
Question:	What is the weight limit for these
Answer:	Save your money. I have this rack. It’s cheap. Don’t buy.

Amazon Basics 2-Piece Universal Cross Rail Roof Rack, 52 inches

Amazon Basics

Based on 404 reviews Check latest price

Product description

An Amazon Brand

Universal cross rail roof rack mounts to most cars, SUVs, or crossovers with pre-installed raised side rails; 52 inch width; vehicle must have pre-installed roof rails with a minimum 1/2 inch gap between roof and rails
Aerodynamic design eliminates wind noise or vibration, even at highway speeds
Heavy-duty aluminum crossbars offer a strong, lightweight construction that’s resistant to corrosion; 165 pound capacity
Easy installation with rubber-coated steel clamps that provide superior grip and damage protection
Built-in locking system on roof crossbars to prevent it being stolen

User questions & answers

Question:	Will it fit a 2015 Armada
Answer:	Hi,There are two items,One is 60"x 20"x3" (L x W x H)(3 inch height),Another is 60"x 24"x6.5" (L x W x H) (6.5 inch height)
Question:	Will this fit my 2005 mercedes benz c240 wagon
Answer:	Hello,The inner dimension of this item is 60''x24''x6.5''.Hope it help!
Question:	Has anyone experienced whistling? I tried a similar pair and couldn’t stand the whistling noise from 30-65mph
Answer:	You would need to put the wheels on when the cart is empty.
Question:	Will this fit a 2012 Chevy Equinox
Answer:	Yes. Put wheels in car. Use as rack.

SportRack Complete Roof Rack System

SportRack

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Sport Rack Complete Roof Rack System. Everything in 1 package; load bars, hooks, locks and every part required: ready to install. Please check the Size Guide under Product Details for information about vehicle fit.

Steel
Imported
Everything in one package; 2 load bars, hooks, locks and every part required: ready to install
Adaptability of all accessories (bikes, skis, kayaks)
Holds up to 130 pounds or 59 kilogram
No drilling required
Find the fit for your specific vehicle in the fit guide link under product details

User questions & answers

Question:	There's a list of sizes, SR001, 002, 003, etc, and no explanation. Anyone have any idea
Answer:	If your Armada has a pre-installed roof rails with a minimum 1/2 inch gap between roof and rails then it will fit.
Question:	is this prive for one rack or two
Answer:	If you have raised rails it will , measure the distance for the right length size
Question:	If it's only one rack, how does it work for cars with no side rails
Answer:	Have a pair mounted on a 2017 Nissan Rogue & the forward bar produces a lot of wind rumble over 30 mph. No whistling, but it sounds similar to sitting next to an airplane wing in flight. Will take them off for road trips. They are very strong though, so I do like then for hauling around town.
Question:	will my escargo work with these bars
Answer:	If you have pre existing raise rails they will, like a 2019 Nissan Pathfinder

Product features

Complete Rack System

Includes load bars, hooks, feet, and locks that are pre-assembled

Easy Installation

Fits most of today's most popular vehicles. Holds up to 130 pounds. No drilling required

Locks Included

Deter theft with locks that are pre-assembled into the roof rack system

Accessory Compatable

Adaptability of all accessories- Bike Racks, Ski Rack, Kayak Racks, and Cargo Boxes

CargoLoc 2-Piece 52" Aluminum Roof Top Cross Bar Set – Fits Maximum 46” Span Across Existing Raised Side Rails with Gap – Features Keyed Locking Mechanism, Silver

CargoLoc

Based on 12 reviews Check latest price

Product description

CargoLoc Roof Top 2 PC, 52" ROOFTOP CROSS BARS - ALUMINUM-Lockable

HIGH QUALITY ALUMINUM CONSTRUCTION – Our design features a rigid aluminum body that cuts down on weight without sacrificing strength!
150 LBS LOAD CAPACITY – Whether it’s a kayak, mountain bike, or skis, these cross bars will get your favorite toys to where the fun happens!
SAFE AND SECURE – A heavy duty clamping mechanism ensures the cross bars will remain firmly fastened to the existing side rails, and the keyed locking mechanism will make sure they stay put!
MEASURES 52” END TO END – Fits a maximum of a 46” span between side rails, providing ample room for your gear!
RAISED SIDE RAILS WITH GAP REQUIRED – Fits most vehicles with existing raised side rails with gap (maximum 46” span between side rails)!

User questions & answers

Question:	How does the rail not slide after installing
Answer:	It did not fit my 4Runner, as the bars on the truck were too big, and it would not clamp tightly. I doubt it would work very well for your Rav 4, this rack was not worth the price. It would also only be about 10" wider than your racks, definitely not the 60" that is advertised.
Question:	Will this fit a 2020 ford explorer
Answer:	Yes
Question:	Will this fit 2017 Rav
Answer:	Yes they do come with mount fasteners.
Question:	Can I return if it doesn’t fit right
Answer:	It works for your 2016 escape without sunroof.

Product features

CargoLoc Roof Top 2 PC. 46" Aluminum Cross Bars - Lockable

Load capacity is 150 lbs. Lockable for more security. Limited Lifetime Warranty. At CargoLoc, we are committed to being the recognized market leader in the cargo management category. Being vertically integrated, we bring to you proprietary and innovative products, with consistency that will exceed your expectations. To ensure cargo security and safety, each component must meet or exceed strict standards from strength, durability and consistency. Some of the benefits that set us apart, is our webbing and capacities. At CargoLoc, we partner exclusively with world class webbing mills to design, develop and build the best webbing money can buy. Our Rated Capacity is the true rated capacity, vs. other supplies rate up to that capacity.