Roof Rack Compatibile with 2017 VW Passat for Cargo Box or Bike Rack

Question

Question:

I have a 2017 VW Passat R-Line I do not have a sun roof and there is nothing on the roof. I want to install a Thule Aero Roof Rack system so I can mount a cargo box or bike rack, but the VW owners manual says not to mount a roof rack. I contacted VW and they said the VW Passat from 2012 to present was not designed to hold a roof rack and that is why they say not to mount one. Can I still mount a roof rack and should I? I know lots of companies make an after market rack for this model vehicle. Thank you.

asked by: Todd C

0

Expert Reply:

The choice is really yours. There are roof racks that are a fit for your 2017 VW Passat and we currently carry models from 5 companies for your vehicle. Because VW didn't design it for a roof rack, you will be operating outside of their recommendation.

If you choose to move forward with a rack, I suggest the Thule WingBar Evo Crossbars - Aluminum - 53" - Qty 2 # TH711420, Evo Clamp Feet # TH710501, and Fit Kit # TH145185. This is a custom fit for your vehicle. You may also be interested in the Thule One-Key System Lock Cylinders - Qty 4 # TH450400 to deter theft. This rack is rated for 165 lbs, but your vehicle is not rated for roof capacity, so you will need to use your own judgment.

For a roof box, the Thule Force XXL Rooftop Cargo Box - 22 cu ft - AeroSkin Black # TH6359B is a great option. We have a video of this fit on a 2014 Passat. For a bike carrier, the Thule UpRide Roof Bike Rack - Wheel Mount # TH599000 is a popular option. For locks you can get the matching locks like # TH450800 for all your components or you can get the # TH450200 for just the bike rack.

If you choose to go with a hitch instead, I recommend the Draw-Tite Sportframe Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class I - 1-1/4" # 24880. This can be used with Class I accessories like a bike rack like the Thule Doubletrack Pro XT # TH92BJ or a cargo carrier like the 17x46 Curt Cargo Carrier for 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Steel - 500 lbs # C18145.

expert reply by: Jason S

0

Answer 1

The difference between the Class II and Class III hitches has to do with their Gross Trailer Weight (GTW), their Tongue Weight (TW), and their Hitch Receiver Size. Class II trailer hitch receivers have a 1-1/4 inch receiver and can be rated up to…

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Answer 2

Aside from a slight change in the appearance of the crossbar (the WingBar Evo has some boxed edges as opposed to the completely smooth front of the AeroBlade) the biggest differences are the rubber strip on top of the crossbar and the weight…

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Answer 3

Yes, I have listed for your below the roof rack systems from Rhino-Rack, Thule, and Yakima that will fit the RetraxPRO XR Hard Tonneau Covers like part #RTT-80243 for your 2019 Ram 1500. Rhino-Rack Vortex Crossbar System part #RRVA180B-RRRLT600…

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Answer 4

A 4-Way trailer connector has the basic lighting functions only; running lights, left turn signal and brake lights, right turn signal and brake lights, and ground. A 7-Way has these functions and a 12 volt circuit, a circuit for electric trailer…

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Answer 5

Thanks for all the details! We definitely have a way to get a cargo basket and an awning installed on your 2024 Toyota Highlander, although the aftermarket roof rack systems will use a clamping system with your door jambs instead of mounting via…

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Answer 6

Yes, your kick sensor for your hands free liftgate will still work after installing a Class III receiver on your 2024 Toyota RAV4 XSE. I have linked an install video near the bottom of the page for our etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver #e23ZR being…

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Answer 7

If you are using the Rhino-Rack Aero Bar Crossbars like #RRVA137B they have a dimension of 54" long x 3-1/8" wide x 1-3/16" tall which works for Thule boxes that use the PowerClick quick-release clamps, including the Thule Vector…

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Answer 8

The Yakima SightLine Towers #Y64AR and RidgeLine Towers #Y00145 are very similar. The main differences is the SightLine is slightly shorter by 1/2" at 3" tall. Also the SKS Locks #Y07204 is hidden behind the outer cover on the SightLine…

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Answer 9

Both the Rhino-Rack Vortex Aero and Thule WingBar roof rack systems have very nice features and would work well for your 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe. Both systems are designed to work on vehicles that have the flush mounted rail system. As far as the…

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Answer 10

The inside dimensions of the Malone Profile18S Rooftop Cargo Box #MPG910 are 76" long x 30" wide x 14-1/2" tall.

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Answer 11

Class I and Class II hitches both have a 1-1/4 inch receiver opening. The difference is that a Class I hitch has a lower tongue weight rating, usually 200 pounds and a lower towing rating, usually 2,000 pounds. A Class II hitch usually has a tongue…

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Answer 12

Yes, it will. The Yakima CBX 16 item #Y66FR will attach directly to your 2023 Toyota RAV4 Prime's factory roof rack. You will want to make sure you have the crossbars set so there is a spread of 24" - 36" between them. I have linked a…

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Roof Rack Compatibile with 2017 VW Passat for Cargo Box or Bike Rack

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