Will a Yakima SkyBox Cargo Box Fit the Factory Roof Rack on a 2011 Toyota Highlander

Question:

Will the Yakima Skybox fit on my 2011 Toyota Highlander with factory rails and crossbars. I am not so much concerned about the fit as I am with how it will perform. I tried running the car or on the Yakima site and their site made it seem like the factory set up was too weak and it kept suggesting I upgrade to their racks. Is that just a ploy for them to sell more stuff or is the factory set not structurally sound enough to support the box?

asked by: Mike C

Expert Reply:

I checked with Yakima and they do not list any cargo boxes as a fit for the factory roof rack on the 2011 Toyota Highlander. There are some factory crossbars that are too flimsy to properly support a loaded cargo box. I have heard of this issue on some GM vehicles as well.

You have some options though. You could add aftermarket crossbars but this does add quite a bit more to the grand total and the one set listed for your Highlander has parts that have been or are going to be discontinued.

However, if you were to remove the factory crossbars and leave the side rails that run front to back you could install Malone roof rack # MPG201 at a much more comfortable price.

Another option is to keep your factory bars and, if possible, spread them as far apart as they can go. Then in the space between them you could add a roof bag such as # RL100S30. You would just need to make sure the chosen bag fits in between the bars (or you could remove the bars). I have included a link to the roof bags we have that can be used with a roof rack.

A third option is to install a trailer hitch, # 75726, and use an enclosed cargo carrier such as Yakima EVO carrier # Y62VR. I have linked a video review of this carrier for you. The benefit of a hitch mounted carrier is that it is much easier to access than a roof option.