Is it necessary to install an SUV roof rack?
3 Answers
Installing an SUV roof rack requires weighing the pros and cons. Here's more information: 1. The installation of a roof rack directly increases wind resistance. It disrupts the original drag coefficient, leading to slower vehicle speed and reduced maneuverability. The increased wind resistance and poorer acceleration also raise fuel consumption, which in turn shortens the vehicle's range. The more and heavier the cargo on the roof, and the bulkier the rack, the more pronounced these effects become, significantly reducing the vehicle's driving range. 2. Increased wind resistance also leads to more noise. This is especially true for add-ons like LED spotlights or large, vertically angled roof racks. The faster the vehicle travels, the louder the noise generated by air passing through the rack's gaps. Additionally, aftermarket roof racks may affect vehicle handling. The added weight raises the vehicle's center of gravity, making it noticeably harder to control when carrying heavy loads, especially on rough roads, during turns, or when encountering strong crosswinds.
I'm a father of two and have been driving an SUV for seven or eight years. Our family especially loves weekend road trips. After installing a roof rack, the car feels much more spacious—luggage goes on the roof, and the back seat still has room for the kids, which is really important. It’s particularly handy when camping, as we can load the tent and grill up top and free up the trunk for food and toys. However, mounting it too high slightly increases fuel consumption and makes wind noise more noticeable, so I usually remove and store it in the garage when not on long trips. Opt for a sturdy aluminum model and have it professionally installed to avoid leaks. Honestly, if your family travels often, a roof rack is worth considering—just don’t overload it and damage the car. For occasional use, renting one temporarily is also convenient. SUVs are spacious, but making the most of that space is even better. It really depends on your lifestyle—if you’re frequently on the go, it can be a big help.
I commute to work in a big city with my SUV, living in a high-rise apartment and navigating through urban streets every day. To be honest, installing a roof rack isn't really necessary—the trunk is spacious enough to handle briefcases and groceries without needing extra storage up top. Last time I installed one, my fuel consumption increased by 10%, the added wind resistance caused annoying humming noises, and I had to worry about scraping against pipes in underground parking garages. Now that I've removed it, everything is clean and simple—better fuel efficiency and peace of mind. If I need to help a friend move, renting a rooftop cargo box for a one-time use is the way to go; no need to keep it mounted long-term. The added wind resistance and noise just degrade the driving experience, and since SUVs already offer plenty of space, extra racks only create unnecessary hassle. My advice for the average office worker: skip the hassle and save that money for travel or good food instead.
