Will Roof Rack on 2021 Ford Escape w/ Flush Rails Allow Sunroof to Open

Updated 08/13/2021 | Published 08/11/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Thule One-Key System Lock Cylinders - Qty 4

(788)

$74.95

Evo Flush Rail Feet for Thule Crossbars - Flush Side Rails - Qty 4

(243)

$264.95

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

(1280)

$279.95

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

(1280)

$279.95

Fit Kit for Thule Evo Flush Rail and Edge Flush Rail Roof Rack Feet - 6049

(369)

$159.95

Question:

I have a 2021 Ford Escape PHEV with flush roof rails and was looking at this kit so I can mount my Thule Motion XT-L to my new car My question is this. Are the cross rails high enough away from the car that my panoramic sunroof is still openable? If not, can I mount the kit and feet and leave them attached to the car and then mount the cross rail only when Im ready to mount the box so I can operte the sunroof when I dont have the box attached?

asked by: William L

Expert Reply:

Roof rack manufacturers all say not to open the sunroof on your 2021 Ford Escape with flush-mounted rails when using a roof rack, though it depends on how how high up the sunroof goes when open. The bottom of the rack will be approximately 3 inches from your panoramic sunroof so there may be interference.

If not, or you're okay with that, the correct Thule roof rack fit for your '21 Escape with flush-mounted rails is the following:

- Thule WingBar Evo Crossbars - Silver # TH711400 or Black # TH711420

- Evo Flush Rail Feet # TH710601

- Fit Kit # TH96RV

- Thule One-Key System Lock Cylinders # TH450400