Will the Thule OutWay Trunk Mount Bike Carrier Scratch or Mar Paint on a 2014 Honda Accord Hybrid

Updated 04/15/2015 | Published 04/14/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Thule OutWay Trunk Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - Adjustable Arms

(15)

$449.95

Replacement Clear Film for Thule Fairings or Hullavator

(18)

$11.81

Question:

I am interested in the Thule Outway but am concerned that the hooks that attach to the trunk may damage the paint or clear coat. I have a 2014 Honda Accord Hybrid. Is there a pad that can be slipped between the hook and trunk? Or is there something else you would recommend to alleviate the issue?

asked by: Rob

Expert Reply:

I use an older generation of the OutWay trunk mount bike carrier # TH45JV and I have never had a problem with paint damage on either of the 2 vehicles I have used it on. You will just need to make sure the vehicle and rack are clean where they make contact with each other.

The hooks on the rack are coated, not bare metal, so having a buffer between them is not necessary. But if you wanted to add protection you could use some clear film, # 853-5481. But really all you would need to do is make sure the vehicle/carrier are clean. And if you wanted a coat of wax on the areas on the vehicle the carrier touches will add even more protection.

expert reply by: Michael H