What Roof Rack do I Need for My 2016 Honda Odyssey with Raised Rails Running from Front to Back?

Updated 01/14/2026 | Published 01/12/2026

Question:

I have a 2016 Honda Odyssey and would like to install a set of OEM rails for cross bars. What do you recommend. Which is better ones you have to drill holes in the roof or no holes? How do the rails that do not require drilling holes in the roof attach? Look forward to hearing from you. Have A Great Day, Mark M.

asked by: MARK M

Expert Reply:

Hello Mark,

Great question! Since your 2016 Honda Odyssey already has raised rails that run from front to back, you’ll want a roof rack that installs directly onto those rails.

I don’t recommend a roof rack that requires drilling into the roof. It isn’t necessary for your vehicle, and drilling always comes with the risk of leaks if the holes aren’t sealed perfectly.

The Malone AirFlow2 Roof Rack – Aero Crossbars for Raised Side Rails # MAL84AR that you were looking at would be an excellent fit. It clamps directly to the factory rails, requires no drilling, and installs quickly and securely. I attached an image so you can see what it will look like installed, I attached an install video as well.

What do you plan on using the roof rack for?

expert reply by: Kate F

Malone Roof Rack Installed on Raised Rails
(click to enlarge)

Lori P.

1/14/2026

I would not buy Malone AirFlow2 Roof Rack again. I loved the idea of more room to store items, and extra length, but have had nothing but problems. They are responsive but unhelpful. As soon as you install it, you cannot return it - even if you have NEVER used them. You won't find issues until you install it. The whistling is so distracting & annoying, but I am now stuck with these. I recommend going with another brand and ensure they accept returns if they have been installed, but NOT used. Good luck!

Alan K.

1/14/2026

I bought these crossbars for a 2015 Nissan Rogue. I wanted locking crossbars for security. I have a roof top tent on the crossbars (roof nest Meadowlark. UPS banged up the box in shipping and lost the end caps. Trailer contacted Malone and they sent 4 end caps- no charge. Before I received the end caps, the rack did whistle. However, after adding the end caps and the rubber gasket that closes the open track underneath each cross bar - the whistling has stopped even at interstate speeds. I would buy again and will use etrailer and Malone in the future.