Roof Rack, Trailer Hitch, and Bike Rack Options for a 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse

Expert Reply:

There is a kit you can use to install a roof rack on your 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse. You will start with Thule Aero - Roof Rack Support Feet, # TH400XT. You will need Thule Roof Rack Fit Kit for Aero and Rapid Aero Foot Packs, # THKIT252, to complete installation of the feet. Because your Eclipse has a short roof, you will also need Thule Roof Mounted Short Roof Adapter, # TH477. I have included a video review of this product below. Last, you will need the load bars. Use Thule Load Bars, # THLB50. I have included instructions and video installations of the various components below. After the rack is installed, you can add the bike rack, # S64720.

A trunk mounted bike rack is not recommended for your Eclipse because top straps should not be mounted directly to glass or plastic trim covering glass, and because the vehicle is unable to support the weight at the point where the carrier must be placed.

An additional option would be to use a hitch mounted bike rack. We offer the CURT Class I Receiver, part # C11193. I have included a link to the instructions for this hitch below. You could then add a hitch mounted bike rack like the 2 Bike Hitch Mounted Folding Rack with Frame Mount Cradles, # 63120. I have included a link to the instructions and a video for this rack below. This option is the most economical.

expert reply by: Michael H