Can Aftermarket Crossbars Be Installed Onto Factory Roof Rails To Increase The Weight Capacity?

Published 05/05/2021

Question:

Hi, I have a 2011 Toyota RAV4 with factory rail and cross bar. It has a max weight limit of 103lbs. Can a new cross bar installed on my current rails handle more weight?

asked by: Randy

Expert Reply:

I checked the owner's manual for your 2011 RAV4 and Toyota just states that you should not put more than 103lbs on top of the luggage rack so I cannot say for sure if adding aftermarket crossbars will increase your weight capacity or not. I recommend contacting Toyota or a dealership to verify if the crossbars are the weak link or if the entire roof cannot hold more than 103lbs.

If they state that the crossbars are the weak link then you can certainly install a new crossbar setup such as Malone AirFlow2 Roof Rack - Aero Crossbars 50" Long # MPG215, which has a weight capacity of 165lbs.

expert reply by: Andrew N