Is it Normal for Yakima Roof Cargo Box to Move Slightly When on Highway

Published 06/22/2023

Question:

I just adding this to my car at about 30 inches apart rack. WHen on the freeway loaded or unloaded I can see the front in sun roof. I notice that even though the clamps are tight the front does jiggle a little in the wind. Want to see if thats ok or if something is broken?

asked by: Brad M

Expert Reply:

What you are seeing is normal. Roof cargo boxes like the Yakima SkyBox NX 16 # Y95AV will move a little bit from the wind when on the road. The air flow on the top of a vehicle is actually surprisingly turbulent and not a consistent direction.

The challenge with making roof cargo boxes is you want to make them light enough that people can actually lift them onto the roof of the vehicle but also obviously strong enough to withstand the wind. So the compromise is a light enough material that flexes a little bit in the wind on the highway.

expert reply by: Jameson C