A Guide to Installing Roof Racks

Roof Rack Mounting Systems 

To ensure installing roof racks is simple and quick, first consider rack compatibility with your vehicle’s roof type. These come in several variations. 

Flush rail mounts have lower profile rails sitting directly on the roof. These are common in popular road-oriented models like the Ford Everest and Toyota Kluger, with racks often gripping the rails with clamps.

Raised rails are more common, with the rails placed higher to reveal a considerable gap between rails and roofs. You can fit racks directly to the rails or use them for mounting crossbars. 

Gutter and roof ditch systems are seen in most vehicles primed for real off-road use, such the the Toyota Prado 120, 150 and 250 series, LandCruiser 70 & 80 series and older versions of the Nissan Patrol. They provide durable clamping, often with higher load capacities to fit larger and longer roof racks. The multiple mounting points additionally mean they stay secured to the roof regardless of the terrain or payload. 

Track mounts are another sturdy mounting type, with longer metal tracks lining the length of the roof, and allowing for roof racks of various sizes or in different configurations. These are common in many ute models, as are fixed point mounts seen in newer ute models like the Ranger and Hilux. 

Installing Roof Racks

Once you’ve determined the mounting system in your vehicle (and purchased the right rack), time to get it on. Let's walk you through the simple steps when installing a gutter-mount rack:

1. First of all, unpack all contents. Ensure all bracket mounts, rubber inserts and fasteners are included. Some kits also come with allen keys and spanners. 
2. Install the brackets. There are multiple slots. Brackets are fixed to the rack with the provided bolts. This is best done with the rack flipped over and adjusting brackets to the width of the roof without fully tightening the bolts. Once one bracket is done, continue with the rest.  
3. Install the second part of the bracket using the shorter bolts and supplied washers and tighten with a nut on the outside. Follow up with the remaining brackets. This is the part that sits in the gutter mount and allows for height adjustability. 
4. Insert the rubber inserts. These shield the paintwork during installation and with the rack loaded. 
5. Grab a mate, flip the rack over and centre the brackets over the gutter mounts. 
6. Ensure all brackets are aligned, and you have the rack at the height and position you’re happy with. 
7. Tighten all the loose bolts and nuts to secure the rack against the roof and gutter mounts. 

Step back and enjoy the view. 

For roof rack installation on other mount types, visit our YouTube channel. 

There, you’ll find videos for vehicles without factory mounting points and which require drilling, and racks installed on popular off-roading models, such as the Prado.

Found this valuable? Leave your feedback below, and be sure to also check our in-depth guide on how to choose the best roof rack for your vehicle.