Troubleshooting Whistling with Rhino-Rack Vortex Roof Rack Installed
Updated 09/05/2018 | Published 09/04/2018
Question:
I purchased the Rhino Rack Vortex from etrailer.com for my 2015 VW Golf and installed it this weekend. I drove the vehicle for the first time today and noticed a very distinct whistling noise when driving above ~30-40mph its more pronounced at higher speeds. The rubber insertss are installed in the bars. Do you have recommendations to get rid of the noise? I specifically purchased this rack to minimize wind noise and it doesnt seem to be satisfying that requirement.
asked by: Dan M
Expert Reply:
The most common cause for the whistling you are hearing with an aero-bar roof rack installed like the Rhino-Rack # RR23QR is an open channel where the rubber inserts install. You did mention verifying that the strips are in place so this doesn't appear to be the issue.
If you notice that the whistling is coming from near one of the connection points between the crossbar and mounting feet, check to make sure that the fit is secure between the two components. You can try repeating the installation to make sure everything is tightened down completely. Also make sure that the crossbars and clamp pads are installed in the correct locations on the roof with the pad arrows facing outward.
If you still cannot reduce the whistling, you can add some fairing like the Rhino-Rack # RRRF4 which will certainly take care of any noise as it will deflect wind away from the bars. I have attached a short video demonstration so you can see exactly how they install.
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Roof Rack
- Q&A: How To Carry 5 Bikes On a 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI
- Q&A: Flush Bar Roof Rack that Fits 2020 Volkswagen GTI with Naked Roof If i buy these legs, wh
- Shop: Rhino-Rack 2500 Series Legs for Sportz Crossbars - Naked Roofs or Fixed Mounting Points - Qty 4
- Shop: Yakima BaseLine FX Roof Rack for Naked Roofs - JetStream Crossbars - Aluminum - Black - Qty 2
- Shop: Rhino-Rack Fairing for Roof Racks - 50" Long
- Video: Rhino-Rack Platforms Universal Awning Fit Kit Review
- Q&A: Will Replacement M8 T-Bolts Fit Rhino Rack Aero Vortex Crossbars Top Channels
- Shop: Universal Awning Fit Kit for Rhino-Rack Heavy Duty/Sportz Crossbars and Pioneer Platforms
- Shop: Replacement M6 x 35 mm Square Head Bolt for Rhino-Rack Accessories - Qty 4
- Shop: Replacement Vortex Strip for Rhino-Rack Vortex Aero Crossbars - 15-3/4" Long - Qty 1
- Shop: Replacement M6 x 40 mm Rectangular Head T-Bolt for Rhino-Rack Accessories - Qty 1
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Video: Firestone Ride-Rite Air Bags with Easy Mount Compressor Feature Breakdown
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Search Results: trailer wiring
- Q&A: Lug Nut Torque Chart for Trailer Wheels
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Q&A: Recommended Bike Rack and Dual Hitch Adapter for Carrying E-Bikes While Flat Towing
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
- Search Results: trailer tires and wheels
- Search Results: suspension enhancement
- Q&A: Firestone Air Bags for 2026 Ford F-350 FX4 Dually
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Shop: Base Plate for Tow Bar
on Roof Rack
