How to Reduce Wind Noise for Roof Rack on a 2018 Ford Escape  

Question:

Expert Reply:

There are a few different ways to help reduce the wind noise that you are hearing with the Malone SteelTop Roof Rack # MPG201 installed on your 2018 Ford Escape.

The first solution is to use a fairing to help deflect the wind. For your Escape you will need a 40" length which I recommend the Inno Fairing # INA261 as it uses a very universal style mounting system that is easy to use. Attached is a review video for you to check out.

The next best option is to use the Malone AirFlow2 Roof Rack # MPG215 which uses aero-style crossbars that do a much better job at reducing both wind noise and drag. The Malone AirFlow2 bars are good but they are more of an entry level crossbar.

The best option is to use a roof rack from Yakima because they not only have premium aero-style crossbars but they also have specific fit instructions for the legs of the system to make sure your crossbars are adjusted just right. For your application you will need the TimbreLine Towers # Y33TR which can be used with the 50" # Y00421 or 60" # Y00422 CoreBars or the 50" # Y00425 or 60" # Y00426 JetStream bars. The difference between these 2 bar styles is that the JetStream bars have a T-Slot for accessories while the CoreBar doesn't. Attached are review videos for you to check out. You can add locks to the towers using the SKS Lock Cores # Y07204.

Even with the aero-style bars I still recommend using the WindShield # Y05017 to further reduce any wind noise. The aero bars are much better for wind noise than your square bars but they won't completely eliminate it. This combination does a great job though. I have attached some additional videos on installing a Yakima roof rack for you to reference.

expert reply by: Jon G

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