2013 Ford Edge with Vista Roof and Factory Installed Side Rails Roof Rack Recommendation
Question:
Im looking for straight answers on this subject. I suspect that Ford warns against racks on the Vista roof simply because operation of the glass will likely damage the roof due to a low profile rack. Perhaps there are other structural concerns I should be aware of. Does the fact that the roof is glass rather than sheet metal lessen its ability to hold the 100 pound maximum load the non Vista roof can? I’ve already checked with my local Ford dealer parts department and discovered that the factory rails they have in stock *can* be installed. My question is more should we than can we. We removed the cosmetic strips that cover the areas where the rails mount and found that they will bolt up to the existing factory pre-drilled mounts just as if she were fitted from the factory. 1. Can factory rails be installed without risk of structural damage to roof? 2. If so, can bars then be added so long as they are raised above height of the glass when roof is open? Since roof is currently bare, would you make other recommendations? I really like the fit and finish of factory rails as opposed to a clamp on rack system 3. I have seen suggestions on this site for 2015 - 2016 applications, but not 2013. Please make recommendations for 2013 with the Vista roof.
asked by: Bruce H
Helpful Expert Reply:
From a structural point of view Ford would know best whether or not the factory rails would be a good decision for the roof of your 2013 Ford Edge with a Vista roof. I can't imagine they would install them on your vehicle if it was unsafe. Manufacturers are very cautious about this kind of thing and typically err on the side of caution whenever possible.
If the rails can be installed then adding crossbars would also be within reason. For a factory looking set the Thule Aeroblade Edge part # TH7503-TH7503 would be an excellent choice that would give you an OEM look and the best possible fuel mileage and quietness.
You will want to ask your Ford dealer what the roof capacity would then be with the rails and rack installed and as long as you stay under that capacity you would be totally fine.
