Should You Travel with an Empty Roof Rack on Your Daily Commute?

by Adrian | Last Updated: October 30, 2020

If you’ve chosen to install a roof rack to the roof of your vehicle, you likely already know how convenient this product is because after all, it leaves you with extra storage space for everything from snowboards to fishing rods and suitcases to tents. Roof racks are usually attached one of two ways: by either brackets clamping them onto the top of the vehicle roof gutters or attaching them directly to factory fitted roof rails.

Roof racks do take some time and effort to install or take off – especially in the beginning before you get used to doing it – many people are therefore considering just leaving their roof rack on their vehicle full time, even when empty during daily commute. If you have wondered whether you should just leave your roof rack on your car full-time even during empty daily commute, the answer may not be what you expected.

The Advantages to Having a Roof Rack Installed on Your Vehicle

There are many advantages to having a roof rack installed on your vehicle. Here are a few of the most notable:

• Increased storage space: A roof rack can provide you with a significant amount of additional storage space, perfect for transporting bulky items that wouldn’t otherwise fit inside your car. This could include things like bicycles, kayaks, camping gear, or even luggage.
• Improved fuel economy: Roof racks can actually help to improve your fuel economy by reducing drag. This is because the rack helps to create a more streamlined shape for your car, which reduces the amount of air resistance that it encounters while driving.
• Increased safety: A roof rack can help to protect your car from damage in the event of a collision. This is because the rack helps to absorb the impact of the collision, which can help to prevent or reduce damage to the body of your car.
• More comfortable rides: Roof racks can help to improve the comfort of your rides by providing more headroom and legroom for your passengers. This is because the rack allows you to transport bulky items outside of the car, which frees up space inside.
• More versatile vehicle: A roof rack can make your vehicle more versatile by giving you the ability to transport a wider variety of items. This can make it more useful for camping, hiking, road trips, and other outdoor activities.

Just a Few Things to Consider

Overall, a roof rack can be a very useful and beneficial addition to your vehicle. If you’re looking for a way to increase your storage space, improve your fuel economy, and make your car more versatile, then a roof rack is a great option.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind when considering a roof rack:

• Weight capacity: Roof racks have a weight capacity, so be sure to check the manufacturer’s specifications before loading it up.
• Wind resistance: Roof racks can increase wind resistance, which can impact your fuel economy.
• Noise: Roof racks can also create noise, which can be annoying on long drives.
• Security: Roof racks can be a target for thieves, so be sure to secure your cargo properly.

With a little planning, a roof rack can be a great way to add more versatility and utility to your vehicle.

Increase in Noise Levels, Other Considerations

Roof racks can create noise, which can be annoying on long drives. The amount of noise generated by a roof rack can vary depending on a number of factors, including the type of rack, the shape of the vehicle, and the speed of the car.

Types of roof racks

There are two main types of roof racks: square bars and aerodynamic bars. Square bars are the most common type of roof rack, and they are generally more affordable than aerodynamic bars. However, square bars can create more noise than aerodynamic bars.

Aerodynamic bars are designed to reduce wind resistance, which can help to improve fuel economy and reduce noise. However, aerodynamic bars are more expensive than square bars.

Shape of the vehicle

The shape of the vehicle can also affect the amount of noise generated by a roof rack. Vehicles with a more aerodynamic shape, such as hatchbacks and sedans, are less likely to create noise than vehicles with a more boxy shape, such as SUVs and trucks.

Speed of the car

The speed of the car can also affect the amount of noise generated by a roof rack. As the car travels faster, the air flows faster around the roof rack, which can create more noise.

Other considerations

In addition to noise, there are other considerations to keep in mind when choosing a roof rack. These include:

• Weight capacity: Roof racks have a weight capacity, so be sure to check the manufacturer’s specifications before loading it up.
• Wind resistance: Roof racks can increase wind resistance, which can impact your fuel economy.
• Security: Roof racks can be a target for thieves, so be sure to secure your cargo properly.

If you are concerned about noise, you may want to consider an aerodynamic roof rack. You may also want to consider a roof rack that has a wind deflector or fairing. These devices can help to reduce noise by directing the airflow around the roof rack.

Here are some tips for reducing roof rack noise:

• Choose the right type of roof rack: As mentioned above, aerodynamic roof racks are generally quieter than square bars.
• Install the roof rack correctly: Make sure that the roof rack is installed securely and that all of the bolts are tightened properly.
• Load the roof rack evenly: Distributing the weight evenly across the roof rack will help to reduce noise.
• Secure your cargo properly: Make sure that your cargo is properly secured to the roof rack. Loose cargo can create noise and can also be a safety hazard.

By following these tips, you can help to reduce the noise generated by your roof rack.

Affecting the Longevity of the Roof Rack

Roof racks can last for many years with proper care and maintenance. Here are some tips to help extend the life of your roof rack:

• Choose the right materials: Roof racks are typically made from aluminum or steel. Aluminum is lighter and more corrosion-resistant, but steel is stronger and more durable.
• Install the rack correctly: Make sure that the rack is installed securely and that all of the bolts are tightened properly.
• Avoid overloading the rack: Roof racks have a weight capacity, so be sure to check the manufacturer’s specifications before loading it up.
• Clean the rack regularly: Dirt, debris, and salt can damage the rack, so it’s important to clean it regularly. Use a mild soap and water solution and a soft brush.
• Store the rack properly: When you’re not using the rack, store it in a dry, cool place. This will help to prevent corrosion and rust.

By following these tips, you can help to extend the life of your roof rack and keep it in good condition for many years to come.

Here are some additional tips to help make your roof rack last longer:

• Avoid driving in extreme weather conditions: Roof racks can be damaged by extreme heat, cold, and snow. If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, you may want to consider storing your roof rack during the off-season.
• Inspect the rack regularly: Look for any signs of damage, such as cracks, dents, or loose bolts. If you see any damage, have the rack repaired or replaced immediately.
• Use a roof rack cover: A roof rack cover can help to protect the rack from the elements and extend its lifespan.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your roof rack in good condition and extend its lifespan.