Thule Roof Rack System Placement on 2012 Honda Pilot

Updated 09/26/2012 | Published 09/24/2012

Question:

Do the thule racks have to be so far forward and close together?

asked by: John

Expert Reply:

When installed on the 2012 Honda Pilot, the Thule roof rack would install so that the front edge of the front crossbar foot is 10-1/4 inches rearward of the top of the front windshield trim. Once installed, the rear crossbar is installed so that the center of the front crossbar and the center of the rear is 29-1/2 inches apart.

Thule has determined that this placement uses the strongest portion of the vehicle roof, thus maximizing the load bearing capability of the crossbars, as well as providing the most secure mounting location. Moving the crossbars to a different location on the vehicle roof might negatively affect the weight capacity and the fit of the crossbars to the vehicle.

Long story short, the crossbars need to be installed as outlined in the instructions.

expert reply by: Mike L