Will Rhino-Rack Backbone Rails Fit A 2021 Nissan Armada SL

Updated 01/28/2026 | Published 08/18/2024

Products Featured in This Question

Rhino-Rack Backbone Mounting System for Pioneer Platform

(62)

$499.99

Rhino-Rack RX100 Legs for Sportz Crossbars and Pioneer Platforms - Raised Factory Side Rails - Qty 4

(1)

$299.99

Question:

I have a 2021 Nissan Armada SL and trying to see if the Rhino Rack Backbone RNPB1 will work. The Rhino Racks manufacturer install steps seem to suggest it will steps 6-16 stating they only apply to post-facelift 2021 y62s but all of the websites including yours will not outright state whether the post 2021 Armadas will work. I am not opposed to making the minor cuts in the plastic trim on the roof to expose the bolt holes if that is the only modification required. Can you confirm?

asked by: Brian

Expert Reply:

Hey Brian,

Rhino-Rack has not confirmed that the Backbone # RRRNPB1 would be a fit for 2021 models and instead lists that you need to use their specific feet to mount a platform so that leads me to believe that the mounting hole spacing or curvature of the roof changed in a way that prevented the rails from fitting.

Do you have factory rails that run front to back? If so you can use the RX100 feet # RR97AP to mount a Pioneer platform rack.

expert reply by: Kevin C

Jesse M.

1/27/2026

Hey Brian, what ended up working for your Armada roof setup? Did the RX100 feet give you a good fit for the Pioneer platform? Your update could make it easier for the next person with a 2021 model to figure out the right option.

Brian

1/27/2026

@JesseM it worked fine but I had to carefully cut away portions of the thin metal strip covering the bolt holes in the roof. A basic Dremel cutter worked fine. Also, the bolts are hard to get started and tightened but very doable. I went with a shorter rhino rack bolted to the backbone to keep my sunroof useable. Also, used rtv silicone on the bolts to aid waterproofing.

Jesse M.

1/28/2026

@Brian Thanks for the detailed follow-up, Brian! That’s really helpful info. Good call on carefully trimming the metal strip to access the bolt holes, and it’s good to know a Dremel did the job cleanly. Those are exactly the kind of real-world install tips that’ll help the next Armada owner going down the same path.