What is the Best Roof Rack Mounting Style for a 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe with Factory Side Rails

Question:

2012 Hyundai Santa Fe with flush rubber rails The factory flush rail has a groove on the inside and I question attaching to the factory rail. I like the idea of mounting over the factory rail seems much stronger The rack will be used to carry ladders and boards

asked by: Brian M

Expert Reply:

You can use a roof rack that mounts outside of the factory side rails, but I recommend using a roof rack that attaches directly to the side rails. It is always better to use side rails or factory mounting points for a roof rack than a bare roof attachment because the vehicle manufacturer designed the side rails and mounting points specifically for a roof rack. It also eliminates contact between a roof rack and the vehicle's paint.

You have a few different options to choose from. For a roof rack similar to the Rhino-Rack roof rack you referenced, I recommend looking at the Thule Podium Roof Rack. For this roof rack, you will need the Thule 43 Inch SquareBars, # TH712100, the Rapid Podium Foot Pack, # TH460R, and the Fit Kit, # THKIT3024. It attaches to the factory side rails and has zero contact with your roof.

Another option that you may be interested in is the Yakima Q Tower system which consists of the 58 Inch Round Crossbars # Y00409, the RidgeLine Towers # Y00145, RoundBar SL Adapter # Y03536 and RidgeClip Fit Kit # Y06006 . Both of these roof racks will work with the flush side rails on your Santa Fe.

If you choose to go with the Rhino-Rack roof rack, # RRVA137B-2, # RRRLKVA, and # DK041, that would be acceptable as well since it will fit, but there are no advantages to using this type of attachment over the factory side rails.