One of the reasons why car owners love having car roof racks installed is because it allows them to gain extra space inside their vehicles. This extra space allows for a more comfortable and enjoyable ride. However, be sure to keep the following safety tips in mind when driving with car roof racks.
Ensure that It Fits Properly
If you’re vehicle doesn’t come with factory installed car roof racks, then you’re going to have aftermarket roof racks installed. When having one installed, you’ll need to make sure that it fits your car properly. If your aftermarket roof rack isn’t the right fit, it could result to damage to your car roof’s paint. There are also cases where ill-fitting roof racks come off when driving at high speeds.
Pay Attention to Height Restrictions
If you’re used to driving without car roof racks and loads on top of your vehicle, height restrictions aren’t usually a problem. However, once you have them installed and are carrying towering loads, then you’ll have to start paying attention to them. Also, keep an eye out for low bridges, wires and tree limbs. This is especially true if you’re carrying tall items like mountain bikes. In addition, you may want to skip the drive-thru in fast food restaurants. Instead, use the parking lot and order your meals inside the restaurant itself.
Be Observant of Swaying and Load Shifts
Loaded car roof racks can shift the center of gravity of your vehicle. Because of this, it becomes more susceptible to swaying and load shifting. You will tend to notice this when you’re driving at high speeds.
The main cause of load shifts is improper packing. For instance, if you pack the front end of the roof rack more heavily, then chances are that the items are going to dive forward whenever you hit the brakes. Alternatively, if you pack the back end more heavily, then you’ll start to feel the impact on your steering.
Never Overload the Roof Rack
Car roof racks can only carry so much. Still, there are many vehicle owners who tend to overload their roof racks. This is especially true if the ride is going to a short one. However, no matter what the distance of the drive is, it is a wise move not to overload your roof racks.
There are many reasons why you wouldn’t want to overload your car roof racks. For one, the excessive weight can create more wind resistance and have an effect on your driving. Second, overloaded roof racks can cause damage to both the roof rack and your vehicle.
If you are looking for roof racks and rook rack accessories like a Toyota camry roof rack, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. You can phone us at (02) 9723 3555 or send us a message in our contact page.
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- Tips For Maintaining Triton Roof Racks
- What to Look for when Buying Car Roof Racks
- Choosing the Right Roof Racks and Roof Rack Accessories