What’s up, Tesla fam? If you’re here, you’re probably itching to turn your Model Y into the ultimate adventure machine. But let’s face it—trunk space alone won’t cut it for road trips, camping gear, or hauling that new kayak. That’s where a roof rack comes in. Ready to unlock your car’s full potential? Let’s dive in.
Quick-Pick List of 7 roof racks for Tesla Model Y:
Image | Items | Links |
|---|---|---|
 | Tesla OEM Roof Rack – The factory-engineered crossbar system designed for seamless Model Y integration with perfect aerodynamics but no built-in locks. | |
 | AUXPACBO Standard Roof Rack – A budget-friendly aluminum crossbar with lockable J-hooks, 165lb capacity, and reduced wind noise for everyday adventures. | |
 | AUXPACBO Heavy-Duty Roof Rack – A reinforced 220lb-capacity upgrade with the same sleek profile but stronger construction for heavier loads. | |
 | AUXPACBO Noiseless Roof Rack – Optimized with a water-drop aerodynamic shape to minimize cabin wind noise while maintaining 165lb strength. | |
 | KNGEARZ Roof Rack – A strap-on, 260lb-capacity beast built from military-grade aluminum for overlanders needing maximum hauling power. | |
 | AUXPACBO – A budget-friendly, versatile rack with lockable clamps and decent noise reduction. | |
 | EVbase-ev Standard Roof Rack – A security-focused crossbar with anti-theft keys, aerospace aluminum, and torque-controlled installation for theft-prone areas. |
Why a Roof Rack Is a Game-Changer for Your Tesla Model Y
You’ve Got Big Plans—Your Car Should Too
So, you love weekend getaways but hate playing Tetris with your luggage. Sound familiar? A roof rack adds serious cargo space without cramping your style. Imagine strapping bikes, skis, or a rooftop tent up there. 500 pounds of extra capacity? That’s legit. Plus, it keeps your cabin clutter-free—no more backseat avalanches every time you hit a bump.
Not All Roof Racks Are Created Equal
Hold up—before you swipe that credit card, know this: Tesla’s glass roof isn’t your average setup. Generic racks could damage the roof or mess with aerodynamics, hurting your range. You need gear designed specifically for the Model Y. Luckily, brands like Tesla OEM, Yakima, and Thule have your back. Pro tip: Check out our deep dive on Model Y cargo boxes for pairing ideas.
6 Roof Racks For Tesla Model Y
Tesla OEM Roof Racks
Tesla Model Y Roof Rack: Built for Your Wildest Adventures
So, you’re eyeing a roof rack for your Model Y but worried about clunky designs messing with your ride’s sleek vibe? Chill—this black, powder-coated aluminum rack is made for your Tesla. With a 165-pound load rating, it’s no slouch. Toss bikes, skis, or bulky cargo up top without sweating it. The die-cast locking towers? They’re like Fort Knox for your gear, keeping things secure at 75 mph. And hey, no folding gimmicks here—this rig’s all about simplicity.
Why Powder-Coated Aluminum? Let’s Break It Down
Ever had a rack rust on you after one winter? Nice try, Mother Nature. The heavy-duty aluminum here laughs at rain, snow, and road salt. Weighing just 17.64 pounds, it won’t drag down your range like those clunky steel racks. Plus, the matte black finish? It’s basically invisible against your Model Y’s roof. For real—why settle for gear that clashes with your car’s vibe?
Installation: Easier Than Parallel Parking
Clips. That’s it. No bolts, no grunt work—just snap it on and go. Tesla engineered these crossbars to hug your Model Y’s curves without scratching that glossy glass roof. Worried about noise? The aerodynamic shape cuts wind racket so you can actually hear your playlist. How’s it going? Probably better now that you’re not wrestling with hex keys.
T-Slots: Your Secret Weapon for Custom Loadouts
What if you could swap between ski racks, bike mounts, and cargo boxes in minutes? The T-slot system lets you mix and match gear like LEGO for grown-ups. Hauling a rooftop tent one weekend and kayaks the next? No big deal. These slots grip accessories tighter than your dog clings to a tennis ball. And yeah, 74 kilograms of capacity means you’re covered for most of your impulse REI purchases.
Range Anxiety? Not Today, My Friend
Tesla didn’t just slap a rack on a roof—they obsessed over airflow. The low-profile design slices through wind, so your battery doesn’t take a hit. Notice how other racks sound like a harmonica in a hurricane? This one’s quieter than your cat at 3 a.m. Still stressing about efficiency? Let’s just say your weekend road trip just got a whole lot greener.
AUXPACBO Roof Rack for Tesla Model Y: Quiet, Secure, and Wallet-Friendly
What’s up, Tesla owners? Tired of overpriced OEM racks that make your wallet cry? This AUXPACBO crossbar fits 2020–2025 Model Ys like a glove and cuts wind noise to a whisper—53 decibels at 50 mph, quieter than your buddy’s podcast rants. The matte black aluminum bars won’t rust or clash with your ride’s vibe, and they’re built to handle 165 pounds of bikes, kayaks, or that impulse Costco haul. No drilling, no drama—just clip-on installation. Think of it as the chill cousin of Tesla’s pricey rack.
Lock It Down (Because Trust Issues Are Real)
Ever worry about gear getting swiped mid-adventure? The built-in locks here are like a bouncer for your rooftop cargo. Tighten the wingnuts evenly with the included torque wrench (or skip it and use common sense—your call). Pro tip: Slide a plastic tool under the weatherstripping to avoid scratches. Yeah, the front bar sits flatter, but who cares when your skis stay put? And if the bolts feel finicky, grab an M6 flange nut from Home Depot—$2 fix, no big deal.
Installation: Less Sweat, More Confidence
Let’s be real—nobody wants to play mechanic for hours. This rack’s tool-free setup takes minutes if you follow the video tutorial (search the brand + “Tesla” on YouTube). Gentle hands win here: pry the weatherstripping with a flathead, snap the hooks into place, and crank evenly. Skip the PPF stickers—the rubber bases grip tight without scratching. Heard the torque wrench slips? Just hand-tighten until it feels solid. Done. Now go test-drive it before your next camping trip.
Durability Hacks for the Win
Powder-coated aluminum? Check. But let’s talk upgrades. Slap 3M VHT tape on the side caps to stop those plastic teeth from shredding—because nobody likes floppy parts. The T-slot rubber strip? Genius for killing wind whistle. And hey, if your Model Y already has roof markers, ignore the measuring tape—just align and go. Worried about scratches? The rubber padding’s got your back. Bonus: AUXPACBO’s customer service actually replies if things go sideways.
Real Talk: Is It Flawless? Nah—But Close
The wingnuts might strip if you gorilla-tighten them, and the torque wrench feels like solving a Rubik’s cube blindfolded. But for half the cost of OEM, you get a rack that’s quiet, secure, and doesn’t murder your range. Toss on a cargo box or kayak mount and call it a day. Still skeptical? How many aftermarket racks come with a 10-year supplier rep and zero drilling? Exactly. Time to quit overthinking and hit the road.
AUXPACBO Crossbars: Quiet, Tough, and Ready for Anything
What’s up, Tesla adventurers? If you’re sick of rooftop racks that sound like a wind tunnel on wheels, this AUXPACBO crossbar cuts noise to 53 decibels at 50 mph—quieter than your AC blasting on low. Designed for 2020–2025 Model Ys, it’s built to haul 165 pounds of gear without breaking a sweat. Kayaks, bikes, cargo boxes? No big deal. The matte black aluminum won’t rust or clash with your ride’s sleek glass roof, and the water-drop shape slices through wind like butter. Plus, zero drilling—just clip, tighten, and go.
Installation: Easier Than IKEA Furniture (Mostly)
Let’s be real—nobody wants to decipher cryptic instructions. This rack’s tool-free setup is chill as long as you don’t crank the bolts like you’re arm-wrestling Thor. Hand-tighten first, then give the upgraded wrench a 90-degree twist to lock it down. Pro tip: Slide the brackets under the glass, not on top, unless you fancy explaining cracks to your insurance. Converting mm to inches? Yeah, that part sucks, but a quick Google search saves the day. And hey, if your Model Y already has roof markers, skip the measuring tape—align and bolt.
Real-World Testing: From Snowboards to Speeds
How’s it going after installation? Imagine strapping three snowboards up top and hitting 90 mph for four hours—racks held firm, no drama. Wind noise? Barely a hum, just enough to remind you it’s there. The T-slot design grips accessories like a vise, whether you’re hauling skis or a rooftop tent. Still nervous about weight? 75 kg is legit for most trips, unless you’re hauling bricks. And that powder coating? Rain, snow, and road salt bounce right off.
Common Pitfalls (and How to Dodge Them)
Worried about stripping bolts or cracking glass? Use the rubber-padded bases—they grip tight without scratching. Skip the included torque wrench if it feels sketchy; hand-tighten until it’s snug, then stop. Saw reviewers complaining about broken roofs? Bet they installed it wrong—brackets go under the glass frame, not on the surface. For extra security, slap on 3M tape if the side caps feel flimsy. And if the wingnuts give you grief, swap ’em for stainless steel ones from the hardware store.
Bottom Line: Quiet, Affordable, and (Mostly) Painless
AUXPACBO’s rack isn’t perfect—the front bar sits a little flat, and the instructions could use more emojis—but for half the price of Tesla’s OEM, it’s a steal. No noise, no rust, no regrets. Still overthinking it? How many aftermarket racks come with a silent ride guarantee and a 10-year durability rep? Exactly. Time to quit scrolling and hit the road. Your kayak’s waiting. 🚗💨
AUXPACBO Roof Rack: Your Tesla’s Silent Workhorse
What’s up, road-trippers? Tired of rooftop racks that sound like a hurricane inside your cabin? This AUXPACBO crossbar slaps 165 pounds of gear—kayaks, bikes, skis, you name it—onto your 2020–2025 Model Y without the racket. The water-drop shape cuts wind noise so well, you’ll forget it’s there. And yeah, it’s all aluminum, so rust can take a hike. No drilling, no fuss—just J-hook clamps that lock down tighter than your ex’s TikTok privacy settings.
Lock It or Lose It (Seriously, Though)
Ever parked at a trailhead sweating bullets over your gear? The built-in locks here are like a bouncer for your rooftop cargo. Tighten the clamps with the upgraded tool (no stripped bolts, promise), and thieves can kick rocks. Pro tip: Slide the brackets under the glass frame, not on top—unless you want a cracked roof story for Reddit. Hand-tighten first, then give it a gentle quarter-turn with the wrench. Overkill? Maybe, but better safe than sorry.
From Groceries to Glaciers: This Rack Does It All
How’s it going for weekend warriors? Picture this: skis on Friday, kayak on Saturday, rooftop tent on Sunday. The T-slots grip accessories like they’re paid to, and the matte black finish? Stealth mode activated. Rainy day? The powder coating laughs at weather. Hauling a week’s worth of camping gear? 75 kilos is legit—unless you’re transporting anvils. And hey, AUXPACBO’s customer support actually answers emails. Wild, right?
Installation: Chill Vibes Only
Let’s be real—nobody wants to play mechanic after a 9-to-5. This rack’s tool-free setup takes minutes if you follow the YouTube tutorial (search “AUXPACBO Tesla”). Skip the PPF stickers—the rubber pads grip without scratches. Convert mm to inches? Yeah, that part’s annoying, but a quick phone calculator fix saves the day. Already got roof markers? Align and bolt. Tested it at 80 mph with snowboards? Solid as your grandma’s meatloaf recipe.
Flaws? Sure, But Worth the Trade-Off
The front bar sits a tad flat, and the instructions could use more memes. But for half Tesla’s price, you get quiet durability without the dealership markup. Still waffling? How many aftermarket racks come with a 10-year supplier rep and zero wind howl? Exactly. Quit overthinking—your next adventure’s calling. 🚙💨
KNGEARZ Roof Rack: Haul Like a Pro Without the Noise
What’s up, Tesla adventurers? Ever feel like your Model Y’s trunk is playing Jenga with your gear? This KNGEARZ crossbar laughs at clutter, tossing 260 pounds of bikes, roof boxes, or kayaks up top like it’s no big deal. Made from military-grade aluminum, it’s tough enough for a cross-country move but light enough not to murder your range. No drilling, no grunt work—just strap it on and go. Seriously, why sweat over cargo space when this thing’s got your back?
Heavy-Duty? More Like Heavy-Don’t-Worry-About-It
Let’s be real—most racks tap out at 165 lbs. This beast? 130 kilos of pure “hold my beer” energy. Toss on a rooftop tent, three coolers, and your neighbor’s kayak (ask first, though). The reinforced aluminum frame won’t bend, rust, or ghost you mid-road trip. And yeah, it’s compatible with all Model Y years. No sketchy adapters or “fits most” loopholes—just bolt-on confidence.
Installation: Easier Than Assembling IKEA Furniture
Sick of instructions that read like hieroglyphics? This rack’s strap-on design is dummy-proof. Slap it on your roof rails, tighten the buckles, and you’re done in 10 minutes flat. No tools, no drama. Pro tip: Double-check your Model Y’s year before buying—KNGEARZ ain’t messing with guesswork. Already installed? Test it with a weekend camping load. Spoiler: Your gear won’t budge, even at 80 mph.
Wind Noise? More Like Wind “Meh”
Who needs a rack that sounds like a harmonica in a hurricane? The sleek, low-profile shape slices through air like a ninja, keeping cabin chatter actually audible. Road-tripping with pals? They’ll forget the rack’s even up there—until you unload six bags of gear without cracking a sweat. Rainy day? The matte black finish shrugs off water like a duck.
Versatility: Your Tesla’s New Side Hustle
Bikes one day, skis the next, and a rooftop tent for that spontaneous Yosemite detour? This rack’s T-slot system swaps accessories faster than you swap playlists. Strap on a cargo box for Costco hauls or a kayak carrier for lake days—no niche gear left behind. And hey, if you do max out that 260 lb limit, just pretend you’re training for overlanding cred. Ready to pack smarter, not harder? 🚙💨
AUXPACBO Roof Rack: Silent, Secure, and Seriously Versatile
What’s up, Tesla crew? Tired of rooftop racks that sound like a windstorm in your cabin? This AUXPACBO crossbar is built for 2020–2025 Model Ys and hushes noise like a librarian—thanks to its water-drop shape slicing through air. Haul 165 pounds of bikes, kayaks, or camping gear without breaking a sweat. The all-aluminum frame laughs off rust, and the matte black finish? Stealth mode for your ride. Plus, J-hook clamps lock tighter than your phone’s passcode. No drilling, no drama—just load and roll.
Lock It Down (Because Thieves Aren’t Invited)
Ever paranoid about gear getting jacked at trailheads? The built-in locks here are like a bouncer for your rooftop stash. Hand-tighten the clamps, give the wrench a quarter-turn, and thieves can kick rocks. Pro tip: Slide brackets under the glass frame, not on top—unless you’re into expensive crack stories. Worried about over-tightening? The upgraded tool stops you before things get sketchy. Peace of mind? Sold.
From Groceries to Glaciers: One Rack, Zero Limits
How’s it going for weekend warriors? Imagine strapping skis up Friday, a kayak Saturday, and a rooftop tent Sunday. The T-slots grip accessories like they’re glued, and the powder coating shrugs off rain like it’s nothing. Need to haul a month’s worth of Costco snacks? 75 kilos has you covered—unless you’re transporting bricks. And hey, AUXPACBO’s customer service actually answers emails. Wild concept, right?
Installation: Easier Than Your Last Zoom Call
Let’s be real—nobody wants to play mechanic after work. This rack’s tool-free setup takes minutes if you follow the YouTube tutorial (search “AUXPACBO Tesla”). Skip the confusing torque wrench—hand-tighten until it’s snug, then cruise. Already got roof markers? Align and bolt. Tested it at 80 mph with a rooftop box? Silent as your cat plotting world domination.
Flaws? Minor Hiccups in a Otherwise Smooth Ride
The front bar sits a smidge flat, and the instructions could use more emojis. But for half the price of Tesla’s rack, you get quiet durability without the markup. Still on the fence? How many aftermarket racks come with a 10-year rep and zero wind howl? Exactly. Time to quit waffling—your next adventure’s waiting. 🚙✨
EVbase-ev Roof Rack: Lock, Load, and Hit the Road
What’s up, Tesla fam? Tired of rooftop racks that scream “steal me” at trailheads? This EVbase crossbar throws in two lockable keys to turn your Model Y into Fort Knox for bikes, skis, or cargo boxes. With 220 pounds of muscle, it’s built for overlanding weekends or that IKEA haul you’ve been avoiding. The J-hooks clamp onto your Tesla’s pre-drilled holes—no drilling, no sketchy DIY hacks. Just align the bars with the roof arrows, torque it down (but not too tight—glass is fragile, folks), and you’re set. How’s that for peace of mind?
Aerodynamic? More Like “Why Didn’t I Buy This Sooner”
Ever had a rack that sounds like a tornado in your sunroof? This one’s 30% quieter than clunky steel bars, thanks to its wind-cheating shape and aerospace-grade aluminum. The matte black finish won’t fade, even if you park in the Sahara, and the UV-resistant rubber pads? They’re like yoga mats for your roof—no scratches, no rattles. Plus, it barely dings your range. Road-trip to the mountains with a rooftop tent? Chill. Forgot to check the weather? Rain or shine, this thing won’t rust or bail on you.
Installation: Easier Than Explaining Tesla’s Software Updates
Let’s be real—nobody wants to play mechanic. The pre-assembled brackets and torque wrench make setup a 20-minute job. Hand-tighten first, then let the wrench do the grunt work (seriously, overtightening = glass disaster). Pro tip: Use a plastic pry tool to nudge the weatherstripping—no scratches, no drama. Already own a 2024 Juniper? It fits like Tesla made it themselves. And if things go sideways, EVbase’s crew replies faster than your group chat. 24-hour support? Yeah, they’re not ghosting you. Ready to quit overthinking and just go? 🚙💨
Comparing Tesla Model Y Roof Racks: Which One’s Right for You?
Tesla’s Official Roof Rack: Sleek but Pricey
If you’re after a no-fuss, factory-approved option, Tesla’s OEM rack is the gold standard. Designed specifically for the Model Y’s glass roof, it’s made from lightweight, powder-coated aluminum and boasts a 165-pound load capacity. Installation is straightforward (if you follow the manual), and its T-slot system works seamlessly with Tesla-approved accessories like bike mounts and cargo boxes. The aerodynamic design minimizes wind noise, so your road trips stay quiet. But here’s the kicker: it’s pricey—nearly double the cost of aftermarket brands. It’s perfect for purists who want guaranteed compatibility and don’t mind paying extra. Just don’t overtighten those clamps; the glass roof isn’t forgiving.
AUXPACBO: Budget-Friendly Versatility
AUXPACBO’s racks are the crowd-pleasers for Tesla owners who want quality without the premium price tag. Their crossbars use powder-coated aluminum and J-hook mounts, supporting up to 165 pounds—ideal for bikes, skis, or rooftop tents. The water-drop shape cuts wind noise, and lockable clamps add security. Installation is mostly DIY-friendly, though some users gripe about vague torque instructions and flimsy wingnuts. For half the cost of Tesla’s rack, it’s a steal, but you might need Home Depot runs for replacement bolts. It’s tailored for weekend warriors who prioritize value and versatility but can handle minor tweaks.
KNGEARZ: Heavy-Duty Hauler
Need to lug 260 pounds of gear? KNGEARZ laughs at lightweight limits. Built with military-grade aluminum and a strap-on design, this rack skips drilling and bolts onto existing roof rails in minutes. It’s the go-to for overlanders hauling rooftop tents, kayaks, or bulky cargo boxes. The trade-off? The bulky profile creates more wind noise compared to sleeker brands, and the matte finish shows scratches over time. If you’re all about raw capacity and don’t mind a little cabin hum, KNGEARZ is your workhorse. Just double-check your Model Y’s year—compatibility isn’t as universal as they claim.
EVbase-ev: Security Meets Aerodynamics
EVbase-ev targets security-conscious adventurers with its 220-pound lockable rack. Made from aerospace aluminum and alloy steel, it includes anti-theft keys and UV-resistant rubber pads to protect your roof. The streamlined design slashes wind noise by 30%, and pre-assembled brackets make installation idiot-proof (if you avoid overtightening). But the “plug-and-play” promise has a catch: aligning the crossbars with Tesla’s roof arrows requires patience, and the torque wrench feels like solving a Rubik’s cube. Priced between Tesla and AUXPACBO, it’s ideal for road trippers who want durability and theft protection but aren’t afraid of a finicky setup.
Who Should Buy What?
- Tesla’s Rack: Perfectionists with deep pockets.
- AUXPACBO: Bargain hunters who don’t mind DIY fixes.
- KNGEARZ: Overlanders needing brute strength.
- EVbase-ev: Security buffs willing to sweat the details.
Each brand nails a niche, but your choice hinges on budget, cargo needs, and how much tinkering you’ll tolerate. Still stuck? Ask yourself: What’s worse—spending extra cash or spending hours troubleshooting? 🚗💨
Here are two detailed comparison tables for the Tesla Model Y roof racks (Tesla, AUXPACBO, KNGEARZ, EVbase-ev), highlighting key differences in features and performance.
Specifications & Features Comparison
Feature | Tesla OEM | AUXPACBO | KNGEARZ | EVbase-ev |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Material | Powder-coated aluminum | Powder-coated aluminum | Military-grade aluminum | Aerospace aluminum + alloy steel |
Load Capacity | 165 lbs | 165 lbs | 260 lbs | 220 lbs |
Mounting Type | J-hook clamps | J-hook clamps | Strap-on | J-hook clamps |
Locking Mechanism | No | Yes (integrated locks) | No | Yes (anti-theft keys) |
Noise Reduction | Aerodynamic, low noise | Water-drop shape, quiet | Louder (bulky design) | 30% quieter than steel |
Installation | Tool-free, Tesla-approved | DIY-friendly (some tweaks) | Easiest (strap-on) | Pre-assembled, torque wrench |
Compatibility | 2020–2025 Model Y | 2020–2025 Model Y | Model Y (check year) | 2020–2025 (incl. Juniper) |
Weatherproofing | Rust-resistant | Rust-resistant | Matte black (scratches) | UV-resistant rubber pads |
Performance & Best Use Cases Comparison
Category | Tesla OEM | AUXPACBO | KNGEARZ | EVbase-ev |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Best For | Purists, seamless OEM fit | Budget buyers, versatility | Heavy haulers, overlanding | Security-focused travelers |
Wind Noise | Minimal | Low | Noticeable | Optimized for quietness |
Durability | High (Tesla-tested) | Good (needs bolt checks) | Extreme (military-grade) | High (aerospace materials) |
Security | Basic (no locks) | Lockable | Basic | Anti-theft keys |
Ease of Setup | Moderate (follow manual) | Easy (minor adjustments) | Easiest (no tools) | Tricky (torque-sensitive) |
Accessories | Tesla-approved T-slots | Universal T-slots | Heavy-duty straps | Pre-assembled brackets |
Aesthetic | Sleek, OEM look | Matte black, low-profile | Bulky but tough | Streamlined, modern |
Picking the Perfect Roof Rack: What Matters Most
Compatibility Is King
First things first: Will it fit? Tesla’s sleek design means not all racks play nice. Crossbars need to clamp securely without scratching the glass. The factory-made Tesla rack is a safe bet, but aftermarket options like the Zanch heavy-duty crossbars offer extra strength for bulky loads. Still unsure? Our Model Y cargo carrier guide breaks it down.
Weight Limits: Don’t Push Your Luck
Here’s the deal: Exceeding your rack’s weight limit is a one-way ticket to disaster. The Model Y’s roof can handle up to 165 pounds while driving, but static weight (like a rooftop tent) can go higher. Always check your rack’s specs—ignoring this could crack the glass or worse. For heavy-duty needs, peek at the Cybertruck’s heavy roof rack for inspo.
Features to Look for in a Model Y Roof Rack
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Aerodynamic Design | Reduces wind noise and protects your battery range. |
| Easy Installation | No tools? No problem. Look for tool-free clamps. |
| Weight Capacity | Aim for at least 150 lbs dynamic weight. |
| Compatibility | Works with Tesla’s glass roof and door design. |
| Versatility | Fits bikes, skis, cargo boxes, and more. |
Installing Your Roof Rack: No Sweat, I Promise
DIY or Pro? Your Call
Installing a roof rack isn’t rocket science, but it’s not exactly a cakewalk either. The Tesla OEM rack comes with clear instructions—just take your time. Aftermarket brands might need extra steps, like adjusting tension settings. If you’re feeling iffy, hit up a pro. Better safe than sorry, right?
Watch Out for These Pitfalls
Ever heard that crunch sound and felt your soul leave your body? Avoid overtightening clamps or misaligning brackets. And please—don’t forget to test the rack’s stability before hitting the highway. A loose rack is a hazard for you and everyone else on the road.
Here’s a detailed, casual guide to installing each roof rack on your Tesla Model Y, including tools and key steps:
1. Tesla OEM Roof Rack
Tools Needed:
- Torque wrench (set to 8-10 Nm).
- Trim removal tool (for prying up weatherstripping).
Steps:
- Align the crossbars with the arrows etched under the glass roof.
- Gently peel back the weatherstripping using the trim tool to expose mounting points.
- Slide the brackets under the glass edge—don’t rest them on top!
- Hand-tighten the bolts first, then use the torque wrench to secure (no Hulk-smashing!).
- Snap the weatherstripping back into place.
Pro Tip: Double-check alignment—crooked bars = wind noise galore.
2. AUXPACBO Roof Rack
Tools Needed:
- Allen wrench (included).
- Plastic pry tool (for weatherstripping).
Steps:
- Position the crossbars using the pre-marked measurements in the manual.
- Lift the weatherstripping and slide the J-hook clamps under the glass.
- Hand-tighten the bolts evenly across all four corners.
- Use the Allen wrench to secure the clamps—don’t strip the bolts!
- Lock the mechanism with the included key to deter thieves.
Pro Tip: Add 3M tape to the clamps if they rattle.
3. KNGEARZ Strap-On Roof Rack
Tools Needed:
- Adjustable wrench.
- Rubbing alcohol (to clean roof rails).
Steps:
- Clean the roof rails to ensure straps grip properly.
- Loop the heavy-duty straps around the rails and crossbars.
- Tighten the straps evenly—no lopsided tension!
- Secure the buckles with the wrench, but avoid crushing the rails.
- Test for wobble by shaking the bars—if they move, tighten more.
Pro Tip: Check straps monthly—they loosen over time.
4. EVbase-ev Lockable Roof Rack
Tools Needed:
- Torque-limiting wrench (included).
- Anti-theft keys.
Steps:
- Align the crossbars with the roof’s arrow markers.
- Hook the brackets under the glass edge (use the plastic guide tool).
- Hand-tighten all bolts before using the torque wrench.
- Lock each clamp with the anti-theft key—click = secure.
- Attach accessories (bike mounts, cargo boxes) to the T-slots.
Pro Tip: If the wrench slips, stop—you’re over-tightening!
Final Checks for All Racks:
- Test drive slowly first to catch rattles or shifts.
- Retighten after 100 miles—things settle!
- Avoid car washes for 24 hours to let seals set.
No matter which rack you pick, take your time—rushing = cracked glass or lost gear. Happy hauling! 🚗💨
FAQs: Your Burning Questions, Answered
Can you fit a roof rack to a Tesla Model Y?
Totally! The Model Y has anchor points for roof racks, but you’ll need one designed for its glass roof. Tesla’s official rack is a foolproof choice, but third-party options like Yakima’s Baseline System also work. Just avoid cheap knockoffs—they’re not worth the risk.
Is the roof rack worth it on a Tesla Model Y?
If you’re into road trips, outdoor sports, or just need extra space, absolutely. It’s a game-changer for hauling gear without sacrificing cabin comfort. Plus, it’s way cheaper than upgrading to a bigger SUV.
What is the best roof carrier for Model Y?
Hard-shell cargo boxes like the Thule Motion XT are crowd favorites for weatherproof storage. Soft bags work too if you’re on a budget. For specifics, our cargo carrier roundup has you covered.
How much weight can a Model Y Roof Rack hold?
Dynamic weight (while driving) maxes out at 165 lbs. Static weight (parked) can go up to 500 lbs, perfect for rooftop tents. Always check your rack’s manual—this varies by brand.
What happens if you exceed the roof rack weight limit?
Cracked glass, damaged rails, or even accidents. Yikes. Stick to the limits, and distribute weight evenly. When in doubt, pack lighter.
Are Model 3 and Y roof racks the same?
Nope! The Model Y’s roof is wider, so racks aren’t interchangeable. Double-check compatibility before buying.
What’s the difference between roof racks and crossbars?
Crossbars are the horizontal bars you attach to the roof. Roof racks include crossbars plus accessories like bike mounts or cargo boxes. Think of crossbars as the foundation.
Do all Model Ys come with a glass roof?
Yep—every trim has that sleek panoramic glass. No need to worry about compatibility issues there.
Are roof racks factory installed?
Nah, they’re sold separately. You can order them with your Tesla or grab them later. Installation’s a breeze either way.
Feeling inspired? Whether you’re hauling skis or a week’s worth of camping gear, a roof rack turns your Model Y into a beast. Still curious? Compare Tesla’s tech with Cadillac’s Super Cruise while you’re at it. Catch you on the road! 🚗
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