Can You Get Into the Trunk With the Thule OutWay On a 2012 Jeep Patriot

Question:

I have a 2012 Jeep Patriot. First, will this fit my Jeep? Second, I would like to know if once I have removed the bikes from the rack can I access the trunk area without removing the entire bike rack.? Thanks.

asked by: Debra A

Helpful Expert Reply:

The ThulOutWay 2-Bike Rack part # TH45JV is a confirmed fit for your 2012 Jeep Patriot. If you wanted to then access the hatch you would want to remove the bikes and rack completely as Thule states not to open the hatch with the bike rack attached. This is the case for all trunk mounted bike racks because the hatch is not designed to support the weight of the rack and you could run into clearance issues in doing so.

Now with that said, you would most likely be able to open the truck and not hit the body with the arms folded down nor do I think the extra 13 lbs that the rack weighs would have much of an effect on your hatch but I can't exactly tell you it will work as Thule recommends against this. Also, you will actually see the trunk being opened with the rack on it when you watch our video below. Thule, says no, you will have to decide for yourself.

The Thule OutWay 2-Bike Rack is the only trunk mount bike rack on the market with the retractable straps, and there is now only 2 of them with this latest model, so it won't take much time at all to remove the bike rack and then reinstall it when you need to get into the hatch.

expert reply by: Conner L