Easily Removable Roof Rack Options for 2014 Honda CRV w/ Flush Mounted Roof Rails

Question:

Are the roof racks easily removed? I have a 2014 Honda CRV with flush rails. I need the roof racks only once in a great while and dont want to leave them in place all the time. Other than racks made for flush rails are there any racks that are easy off/easy on that would fit my CRV?

asked by: Pat Q

Expert Reply:

The flush roof rails on your CRV will have a total of 8 roof rack mounting holes located on the inboard side of the flush rails. Once the protective cover is removed from each hole, the rack can be installed.

The Thule AeroBlade Edge roof rack you referenced, part # TH7602-TH7603 can be removed between uses by removing a total of 8 Allen screws. The process should take about 10 or 15 minutes after the initial set up. The AeroBlade Edge provides a great looking roof rack, and the aerodynamic shape of the crossbars really limit wind noise.

However, since you won't be using the bars very often, the Rhino-Rack roof rack that consists of the following parts might work better for you:

49 inch cross bars, part # RRVA126B-2
Legs, part # RRRCL4
Fit Kit, part # RRRCP33-BK

Here's the nice thing about the Rhino-Rack. The fit kit mounts can be installed permanently on the vehicle roof and left in place. They'll do very little to detract from the appearance of the vehicle, but provide kind of a quick disconnect to make installing and removing the rest of the rack quick and easy. Although the round crossbars aren't as aerodynamic as the AeroBlade bars, this rack is more cost effective and would be easier to install and remove.

I've linked you to some of our FAQ articles about roof racks and rack mounted accessories.