Roof Rack Compatibile with 2017 VW Passat for Cargo Box or Bike Rack

Updated 07/26/2017 | Published 07/25/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Thule WingBar Evo Crossbars - Aluminum - Black - 53" Long - Qty 2

(1274)

$279.95

Draw-Tite Sportframe Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class I - 1-1/4"

(95)

$227.37

17x46 Curt Cargo Carrier for 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Steel - 500 lbs

(1102)

$178.59

Fit Kit for Thule Evo Clamp and Edge Clamp Roof Rack Feet - 5185

(474)

$159.95

Thule One-Key System Lock Cylinders - Qty 2

(758)

$54.95

Thule One-Key System Lock Cylinders - Qty 4

(758)

$74.95

Thule One-Key System Lock Cylinders - Qty 8

(758)

$114.95

Thule UpRide Roof Bike Rack - Wheel Mount - Clamp On or Channel Mount - Aluminum

(43)

$399.95

Evo Clamp Feet for Thule Crossbars - Naked Roofs - Qty 4

(409)

$264.95

Question:

I have a 2017 VW Passat R-Line I do not have a sun roof and there is nothing on the roof. I want to install a Thule Aero Roof Rack system so I can mount a cargo box or bike rack, but the VW owners manual says not to mount a roof rack. I contacted VW and they said the VW Passat from 2012 to present was not designed to hold a roof rack and that is why they say not to mount one. Can I still mount a roof rack and should I? I know lots of companies make an after market rack for this model vehicle. Thank you.

asked by: Todd C

Expert Reply:

The choice is really yours. There are roof racks that are a fit for your 2017 VW Passat and we currently carry models from 5 companies for your vehicle. Because VW didn't design it for a roof rack, you will be operating outside of their recommendation.

If you choose to move forward with a rack, I suggest the Thule WingBar Evo Crossbars - Aluminum - 53" - Qty 2 # TH711420, Evo Clamp Feet # TH710501, and Fit Kit # TH145185. This is a custom fit for your vehicle. You may also be interested in the Thule One-Key System Lock Cylinders - Qty 4 # TH450400 to deter theft. This rack is rated for 165 lbs, but your vehicle is not rated for roof capacity, so you will need to use your own judgment.

For a roof box, the Thule Force XXL Rooftop Cargo Box - 22 cu ft - AeroSkin Black # TH6359B is a great option. We have a video of this fit on a 2014 Passat. For a bike carrier, the Thule UpRide Roof Bike Rack - Wheel Mount # TH599000 is a popular option. For locks you can get the matching locks like # TH450800 for all your components or you can get the # TH450200 for just the bike rack.

If you choose to go with a hitch instead, I recommend the Draw-Tite Sportframe Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class I - 1-1/4" # 24880. This can be used with Class I accessories like a bike rack like the Thule Doubletrack Pro XT # TH92BJ or a cargo carrier like the 17x46 Curt Cargo Carrier for 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Steel - 500 lbs # C18145.