Is it Normal to Have to Open Rear Hatch to Install Trunk Mounted Bike Rack

Updated 08/11/2015 | Published 08/10/2015

Question:

I recently purchased the Thule #TH78VR for my 2005 V70 Wagon from etrailer. Over the weekend, I test installed the bike rack prior to a trip next week. I was surprised and frustrated to see the top and side hooks do not fit neatly into the gap between the rear door and the body. I had to open the door, place the hooks and then close the door to get them to fit. Even then, the hold is tenuous at best. Am I missing something? Thanks,

asked by: Richard M

Expert Reply:

Having to open the rear hatch of a vehicle to install the strap hooks of a trunk mounted bike rack is a pretty standard step. The clearances between the panels on most vehicles is too tight to be able to fit the hook in without doing so.

Did you try installing bikes on the rack at all to see how it performed? Thule is pretty thorough with the testing of the fits of their trunk racks like the # TH78VR since they do not want to damage your vehicle or other motorist's vehicles.

Check out the review video I attached for this bike rack to compare to how your rack is installing to see if you overlooked a step.

expert reply by: Jameson C