How to Install Thule Passage 2 Trunk-Mount Rack on 2012 Mazda 3 Sedan

Updated 02/10/2021 | Published 02/06/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Thule Passage Trunk Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - Hanging Style

(962)

$147.56

Thule Passive Security Strap for Trunk Mounted Bike Carriers

(67)

$22.95

Question:

Hi! I have a Thule Passage 2 and am just trying to get information about fit. According to the users manual, setting 6 should be correct for my 2012 Mazda 3 sedan, but at that setting, the lower bar does not touch the bumper instead sitting several inches above, if the bike holding part is parallel to the ground. If I lower the bike rack so that the lower bar rests on the bumper as the user manual says, the bike holder bars are angled towards the ground, which seems really insecure for transport. Is it possible the fit guide is incorrect? What would be my best option for the most secure transport. Ive hesitated to use the bike rack because it doesnt seem like my bike is very secure. Thank you for any help!

asked by: Allison M

Expert Reply:

To have your rack in the correct placement for installation, first, rest the bike rack against the rear of the vehicle as shown in illustration #6 on page 5 of the User Manual. In this rested position the arms should be level or pointing slightly upward. Adjust arm angle if necessary. Place your top clips in the gap at the front edge of the top of the trunk, hatch or door and then take up slack as shown in illustration #7. Do the same for the bottom clips and strap. Continue with instructions in the User Manual. This should achieve a tight and sturdy mount for your car. According to Thule it is ok if the lower support does not go all the want down to the bumper.

I have included a link to the instructions below.

Many of our trunk mount users are looking for a bike theft deterrent to keep bikes from being stolen off the trunk mounts. The perfect solution is the Thule # TH533 Security Strap. You loop the bike frame(s) and then toss the bulb end into your trunk and close it. The bulb end cannot be pulled out.

expert reply by: Les D