Sun Roof Hits Thule WingBar Edge Crossbar System on 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan

Question:

I have a 22foot VW Tiguan. I purchased the Thule Wingbar Edge. It fits my side rails but the front crossbar is too low to the roof. It obstructs the opening of my sunroof. In images online I see some photos of the wing bar edge that appear to offer more clearance than the low profile version I received. Is there a different model number for the taller feet brackets? Alternatively, Is there some kind of spacer kit or third-party solution that would add a inch or two of clearance to my Thule system?

asked by: Cooper

Expert Reply:

I do have an option for you but almost all roof rack manufactures unanimously do not advise on opening a sun roof with a roof rack installed due to both the chance of interference and wind noise while open. If you switch to the style which sits on top of the mounting feet like the Thule WingBar Evo Crossbar System composed of part # TH711420 and part # TH710401 instead of the style which sits inside the mounting feet like the Thule WingBar Edge Crossbar System composed of part # TH96FE and part # TH69SC then you will likely have more clearance. That said, we still don't recommend opening the sun roof with the roof rack attached and there's still a chance it will interfere.

I am not aware of any spacers that will provide a remedy for the issue you mentioned.

expert reply by: Conner L