Best Low-Cost Roof Rack for Occasional Use on 2004 Toyota Prius

Question:

We have a 2004 Toyota Prius naked roof and would like to put the roof rack on only when were rarely carrying something on the roof usually a ladder. Thats what weve done with our previous car- that Mondial rack took less than 5 min to put on and take off. Were looking for a low-cost system. How hard is this rack to mount and dismount, or the Rola 59806, or can you recommend another system thats easy to remove and replace?

asked by: Tanya

Expert Reply:

Inno Square Crossbar Roof Rack for Naked Roofs # INB127 # INSUT # INK705 is indeed the lowest-cost option offered for your 2004 Prius. This rack is removable and does offer the advantage of having included locks to prevent theft of the rack. It also offers a higher weight capacity but higher cost than the Rola system you referenced, part # 59728. Both racks use the same type of clamp-on attachment system so for ease of installation and removal they will be comparable to one another.

It is a good idea to check your Prius owner's manual (or with your local dealership) to confirm the roof weight bearing capacity of the vehicle, which may be less than that of the rack system you choose.

You will likely need to use some type of cargo control to secure the ladder on your chosen rack. You might consider a 4-piece set of ratcheting tie downs such as # EM31352 from Erickson.

expert reply by: Adam R