Roof Box Compatiblity 2015 Ford Explorer W/ Panoramic Roof

Question:

I wanted to know about putting cargo boxes onto a car with a panoramic sunroof. I have a thule force . I was just about to buy a Ford Explorer 2015 XLT with both a sunroof and panoramic sunroof. Two different Ford service departments told me that Ford doesnt recommend using cargo boxes with a panoramic sunroof. A technician at Thule said it shouldnt be a problem with Fords dealer installed cross bars or some Thule cross bars.

asked by: Chris S

Helpful Expert Reply:

Generally speaking, a cargo box like the Thule Force XT Rooftop Cargo Box part # TH6358B can be used on vehicles with a sun, moon or panoramic roofs. However, it is not recommend you open the roof opening while the cargo box is installed due to noise and possible clearance issues.

A moon roof will not have problems with clearing the crossbar as they do not extend up past the roof line. A sun roof however does. Therefore you will want to ensure you do have clearance between the sunroof and crossbars on the roof rack if you plan to open the roof with the box installed. For your 2015 Ford Explorer, I recommend using the Inno Aero Crossbar System part # INXB153-2 and part # INXS150 for two reasons.

The first reason is how far the crossbar sit in comparison to the roof. As you can see in the attached photo, there is about 4-5" of clearance between the roof and bottom of the crossbar.

The other reason deals with the crossbar spread required for the Thule box to work. The Inno rack has a crossbar spread of 28" which is within the crossbar spread requirements for the Thule box.

expert reply by: Conner L