Recommended Economical Roof Rack Solution for Toyota RAV4 2008

Updated 04/24/2020 | Published 04/23/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Malone AirFlow2 Roof Rack - Aero Crossbars - Raised Side Rails - Aluminum - 50" Long - Silver

(1744)

$242.95

Rhino-Rack RS 2500 Roof Rack for Naked Roofs - Vortex Aero Crossbars - Aluminum - Black

(325)

$369.06

Question:

I need roof rack advise. I am trying to save some money on the bars.

asked by: Megan

Expert Reply:

The length of cross bars you want to use on your 2008 Toyota RAV4 will depend on how far you want them to stick out on the sides of your vehicle. Most of the available cross bars for your vehicle are in the neighborhood of 49" up to 53" long. You'll need to choose the best solution depending on whether or not you have the raised side rails or a naked roof with fixed mounting points on your vehicle, but I've outlined the best solutions for you in each category below.

If you have raised factory side rails on your RAV4, I recommend using the Malone # MPG215 which uses 50" aero bars and will provide you with plenty of space to carry accessories on the roof of your vehicle. These are a great economy roof rack and Malone roof racks have a lifetime limited warranty in case anything was to go wrong.

If your RAV4 has a naked roof without fixed mounting points, you'll want to use the Rhino-Rack RS 2500 Roof Rack for Naked Roofs - Vortex Aero Crossbars - Aluminum - Black # RRRS073B. This economical rack is quiet, with a low-profile that lets you mount carriers and accessories on your vehicle's naked roof. It has a 132-pound capacity and locks are included.

I've linked video reviews of these parts for you to have a look at, as well.

expert reply by: Erik B