Recommended Thule Roof Rack for 2017 Audi Q7 and Mercedes OEM Cargo Container Mounting Hardware

Question:

I have an OEM roof cargo container that I purchased for a 2014 Mercedes E wagon. I now own a 2017 Audi Q7 and want to install the cargo container on the Audi. If I purchase the Thule Aero for the Audi roof, will this fit the Mercedes container? My understanding is Thule manufactured the cargo boxes for Mercedes? The spacing of where the connection points on the box would line up on the Aero Blades seem correct. But I believe I would also need to hardware to attach the cargo container to the Aero blades. Any guidance is appreciated!

asked by: Kevin H

Expert Reply:

The Mercedes-Benz rooftop cargo boxes were made by Thule so they will absolutely fit the Thule Aero crossbars as you mentioned. For your 2017 Audi Q7 I recommend the 53 inch bars # TH711420 with the foot pack # TH460R and then fit kit # THKIT3145 confirmed to fit your vehicle.

The cargo box used t-slot mounting which is not available from Thule as it was a precise fit for the dimensions of your previous rack and it will most likely not be a precision fit to the fixed mounting locations of your new rack. I recommend drilling some new holes to fit the new rail locations and using the Replacement Mounting Hardware for Car Top Cargo Roof Cargo Box # CTC-18PARTS. Then to fill any other holes you can use sealant # LT37467 or # LT37464.

expert reply by: Jason S