Can a Roof Rack for a 2012 Mazda 3 Be Removed when Needed and How to Access the Fixed Points

Question:

I have 2 questions. First: If I mount a Thule rack to the fixed points on the roof, is it permanent or can I remove it when I dont need it? Second: How do I remove the covers over the fixed points on the roof so I can attach a Thule roof rack?

asked by: Dave B

Expert Reply:

If you install any roof rack on your 2012 Mazda 3, you can remove it if needed, even if that rack attaches to the fixed points on the vehicle.

The fixed points for the rack are located under small plates that you can just pull up and off of the vehicle like in the video I have linked on a similar vehicle. In some cases a small flat head screwdriver can be used to gently pull the covers up.

For the Thule roof rack you would need the following parts:

SquareBars: # TH712200
Podium Foot Pack: # TH460R
Fit Kit: # THKIT3069

expert reply by: Michael H