Leveling the Crossbars on a 2018 Acura MDX to Mount a Rooftop Tent

Updated 11/12/2020 | Published 11/06/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Yakima JetStream Crossbars - Aluminum - Black - 50" Long - Qty 2

(609)

$269.95

Thule RV Wheel Levelers - Black - Qty 2

(83)

$53.38

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

(1280)

$279.95

Question:

I have a 2018 Acura MDX with roof rails running front to back. Ive been looking for a rack solution to put a rooftop tent on. My problem is that the rear bar of the MDX is about 1 1/2 inch lower than the front. I wonder if you have a system that would ensure leveling front and back and if yes, what model I should go for. Thanks.

asked by: Jimmy W

Expert Reply:

I spoke with a contact at Thule, and they said that no roof rack is completely parallel with the ground. However, there are a few things you can do to ensure the tent is level. Most of these tricks are used by RVers for leveling their trailers.

First, park your car on terrain that will have your 2018 Acura MDX's front slightly lower to even things out.

Second, you can use a wheel leveler like part # TH307617. With your back tires on these, you'll achieve the level you're looking for. I've linked to a video review of these levelers for you to look at.

Third, you can place a block of wood under the ladder of your rooftop tent to even things out.

The tricks above will make it so you can keep a level tent on your roof. There is something to keep in mind, though.

If you have a roof rack that's not able to handle the weight of a tent and people in the tent like many factory crossbars, you need to upgrade. I recommend the Thule Wingbar Evo, part # TH711420. These crossbars have a weight capacity of 220 pounds (the ladder of the tent will take some weight as well if you're concerned about 220 not being enough) and a spread of 53 inches which will really help when mounting accessories like a tent. I've linked to a video installation of these on a 2019 Acura MDX along with the feet, part # TH460R, and the fit kit, part # THKIT3132.

If you don't have a tent already, check out our selection of tents that I've linked below. The Thule Tepui Foothill, part # TH37HJ, is a great one to get you started camping with your car.