Compatibility of Older Thule Frontier Ski Box with 2014 Honda CRV EX-L with Factory Side rails

Updated 11/24/2014 | Published 11/22/2014

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Question:

Hi, I am buying a 2014 Honda CRV EX-L with Factory side rails No cross bars and want to use my various Thule products on this CRV. My question to you is: I have an older Thule Frontier Rood Ski Box and plan on using it on the CRV. I know that I will have to buy the Foot Pack and FitKit for the rack, but does the CRV have several mounting points? Meaning, do I have choices of mounting points running front to back on the factory rails? I ask this some I can position my 88inch long Frontier box in a position that will not interfere with the opening of the rear hatch? I hope I was able to convey my question clearly? Also, can I use a 54inch or 56inch load bar instead of the basic 47?

asked by: William C

Helpful Expert Reply:

The 2014 Honda CRV comes with factory installed crossbars, flush rails and a naked roof. It sounds like you are purchasing a 2014 Honda CRV EX-L with flush mounted rails that run front to back.

I recommend the Thule roof rack system:

Thule SquareBar Evos # TH712200
Podium Foot Pack # TH460R
Fit Kit # THKIT3118

If you want to use the 53 inch SquareBars # TH712400 we've tested them and know they fit. I can't recommend going any longer than that unless you go with the ProBar Evos which are a lot longer at 69 inches # TH713600 and 79 inches # TH713700.

The mounting hardware for the Frontier cargo box will work with the square crossbars

As for clearance, at 88 inches long, your cargo box is one of Thule's longer boxes. Also your vehicle will come with fixed mounting points designed by the automobile manufacturer so you won't have a lot of flexibility in moving the box forward, so my contact said you may have an issue in clearing the hatch. You should refer to load carrier instructions for correct load carrier placement.

You will want to check the owners manual or with the Honda dealer for the roof weight capacity. The load limit on the Thule roof rack system on your Honda CRV is 165 lbs. Your weight capacity will be whichever is the lowest between the Honda CRV roof or the Thule roof rack system.

You might also be interested in a tire step, like part # HE4040, which would make accessing your roof mounted cargo much easier.