Roof Rack Recommendations for a 2012 Subaru Impreza 5-Door with Fixed Installation Points

Question:

Ive got a 2012 Subaru Impreza limited 5dr, no roof/cross bars. The roof appears to have threaded mounts under little covers that lift up from the roof trim. Id like to have a detachable system with which to carry 2 kayaks. Is the right system for that car/application? Id like aerodynamic blades Yakima or Thule if theyd work but mostly want a stable/attractive base system. What do you suggest?

asked by: Micheal V

Expert Reply:

Your 2012 Subaru Impreza Hatchback has fixed points on which you can install a roof rack. That is what those thread holes under the covers are for. For this type of roof rack, you can use the following parts:

Crossbars, # Y00408
Landing Pad 11, # Y00233 (you will need 2 sets)
Control Towers, # Y00214

A system that installs on the fixed points like this one will look more OEM than a system that clamps on. I have included a link to a video that shows a typical installation of this type of system for you.

That system screws into those threaded holes you mentioned so it can be removed with relative ease.

For a compatible kayak carrier, I recommend the Yakima BigStack, # Y04041. This carrier can be used with 2 kayaks and it will fit the roof rack system listed above. I have included a link to the instructions for this carrier for you.

Make sure to consult the vehicle owners manual for the weight carrying capacity of the roof.

expert reply by: Michael H