Can Rear Hatch of Vehicle Open with Trunk Mounted Bike Rack Installed

Question:

Can the trunk be opened while the Thule Passage 2 Bike Carrier - Trunk Mount is in place. Less the bicycles obviously. Thanks,

asked by: Bob

Expert Reply:

With trunk racks you should not attempt to open the trunk with the rack installed with or without bikes. The reasons are the rack weighs enough that it would cause the trunk to slam down if you let it go which could be dangerous and the hooks of the rack will most likely push up against the body of the vehicle as the lid opens which would cause damage.

A hitch mounted bike rack would be a better route to go if you want the ability to open the trunk with the rack installed like the Hollywood Racks Trail Rider # HR200Z. I believe you have a 2000 Chevy Impala so you'd need a hitch like the Draw Tite part # 36407 installed.

expert reply by: Jameson C