Why Is My Roof Rack On My 2019 Volkswagen Jetta Allowing Water Inside?
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
I recently purchased the VW licensed base rack system from my local dealership. It’s made by Mont Blanc. I purchased it because I was worried that other models would interfere with my panoramic sunroof. While I’m pleased with everything else, I am incredibly disappointed in the fact that the metal clamp doesn’t allow the weather seal to function normally, allowing water to leak on all four doors and into the car. The dealership doesn’t sound so willing to help out with any options, so if I can get my money back, I’ll need to find a rack system that doesn’t let water in. Can anyone confirm there is a base rack system for naked rooftops that doesn’t allow leaks to happen? I attached some photos to reference the issue.
asked by: Thacher G
Expert Reply:
The first thing you can do, is double check the instructions and ensure that the feet are installed correctly. Something as simple as the feet being improperly spaced, or if everything is not tightened down completely, could lead to the issue you're having.
If you've checked that that is all good, then you can put a strip of duct tape like # PT23ZR over the base of the foot to give it a tighter seal.
However, realistically if the dealership installed this roof rack, they need to be the ones to fix it, as you're not supposed to have any leaks with a roof rack installed.
If you find yourself not wanting to keep this roof rack, and just want to upgrade/replace your system, then I recommend taking a look at the:
-Thule WingBar Evo Crossbars # TH711420, with the clamp feet # TH710501, and the fit kit # TH145204.
This crossbar measures 53" long, 3-1/8" wide, 1" tall, and has a maximum weight capacity of 220lbs.
Attached is an installation video for you to check out as well.

Product Page this Question was Asked From
Duct Tape - Silver - 150' Long
- Lubricants Sealants Adhesives
- Tape
- Duct Tape
- Performance Tool
more information >
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Thule UpRide Roof Bike Rack - Wheel Mount - Clamp On or Channel Mount - Aluminum
- Shop: Malone TradeSport OverPass - Truck Cab Rack
- Search Results: thule upride
- Shop: Benton LittleShift Bike Rack for 1 Bike - 2" Hitches - Wheel or Frame Mount
- Shop: Malone SeaWing Kayak Roof Rack w/ Tie-Downs - Saddle Style - Clamp On
- Shop: Malone FoldAway-5 Kayak, Canoe, and SUP Roof Rack w/ Tie-Downs - J-Style - Folding - Clamp On
- Shop: Kuat Piston SR Roof Bike Rack for 1 Bike - Wheel Mount - Aluminum
- Shop: Malone J-Pro2 Kayak Roof Rack w/ Tie-Downs - J-Style - Fixed Arms - Clamp On
- Q&A: Will Water Leak at Weather Stripping when Using the Thule Roof Rack for 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan?
- Shop: Roof Rack
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Q&A: Does the Thule Helium Platform Rack Fit on a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC?
- Q&A: Dimensions of the Kuat NV 2.0 Bike Rack when Folded Up or Down
- Video: Malone SeaWing Kayak Roof Rack w/ Tie-Downs Review
- Video: Fit Verified: Yakima HighRoad Roof Bike Rack on a 2018 Chevrolet Impala
- Video: Test Fit: Yakima HighRoad Roof Bike Rack on a 2020 Toyota RAV4
- Video: How to Install the Malone SeaWing Kayak Roof Rack w/ Tie-Downs on a 2017 Toyota RAV4
- Video: How to Set Up Your Kuat Class 4 V2 Kayak Roof Rack w/ Tie-Downs on a 2022 Ford Maverick
- Video: Test Fit: Kuat Pivot 2 Swing Away Hitch Extender for Bike Racks on a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
- Video: Mount: Malone FoldAway-5 Kayak, Canoe, and SUP Roof Rack w/ Tie-Downs on a 2014 Toyota Prius v
- Search Results: roof bike racks
- Search Results: rockymounts roof bike racks
- Search Results: malone sea wing
- Search Results: kuat nv 20
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Article: Best Bike Racks for Electric Bikes
- Search Results: trailer wiring