Can You Put Roof Racks on a Car with a Sunroof | 4 Steps

Last Updated on May 12, 2022

A sunroof allows you to enjoy the natural light and fresh air and can also serve to cool the interior of your vehicle on warm days. Yet, you would like to install a panoramic roof rack on the panoramic sunroof for extra cargo or luggage, but you are concerned that the panoramic sunroof will interfere.

A roof rack is convenient to accommodate extra luggage or cargo when traveling, but it can be challenging to install if your vehicle has a sunroof. Therefore, the million-dollar question arises: Can you put roof racks on a car with a sunroof?

Specific models of vehicles with sunroofs can have a roof rack installed, while others cannot. Fortunately, many options are available to you. So don’t worry cause we’ve got you covered.

Our experts have put together a comprehensive guide on installing a roof rack on a vehicle with a sunroof. We’ll discuss which type of panoramic sunroof rack is compatible with a vehicle with a sunroof and walk you through the installation process step-by-step. 

What is a Sunroof and What are the Benefits?

The sunroof is an opening in a car’s roof that either slide back or can be removed, allowing light, air, or both to enter the vehicle and allow the view from both the front and rear seats.

One of the primary benefits of a panoramic sunroof is that it lets in more natural light than a regular glass roof and gives better panoramic views. It is easier for your ears to survive if you open a panoramic sunroof rather than standard vehicle windows.

A panoramic sunroof also allows the sun to enter the cabin where you are sitting, beneficial to your overall well-being. Having a panoramic sunroof in your vehicle can help you feel less claustrophobic while driving long distances.

Can You Put Roof Racks on a Car with a Sunroof : Comprehensive Guide

Indeed! There are no restrictions regarding installing panoramic sunroof racks on cars with panoramic roofs unless otherwise indicated in the manufacturer’s manual. But you need to confirm that you can safely mount roof bars to your roof with a roof rail.

The manufacturer’s manual should be consulted for the proper method of installing the roof rack on the panoramic roof to avoid causing any damage.

You can install a roof rack on a vehicle with a roof or panoramic roof in the following ways:

• Installing roof rack supports directly to the vehicle’s roof
• Using universal clamps in combination with an aerodynamic crossbar system
• Mounting a clamp-on type of accessory for cars without pre-existing rails in the panoramic roof

Each type of roof rack has its benefits and drawbacks, which should be considered before purchasing. For example, installing roof rack supports directly to the vehicle’s roof is the most secure option, but it can also be the most challenging and time-consuming.

Additionally, using a crossbar system with universal clamps is an easy and convenient way to install a car roof rack on a vehicle with a panoramic roof, but it can be less sturdy.

Those methods work in the following cases:

• The vehicle has a panoramic roof and no pre-existing roof rails (common among certain brands and models).
• The vehicle has a panoramic roof and racks designed for cars without any pre-existing rails.
• The vehicle has a panoramic roof and racks designed for cars with pre-existing rails (common among many brands and models).

The attachment method you choose will depend on how much security and sturdiness you want to have when hauling your luggage or cargo.

It is also worth mentioning that some clamp-on types of accessories for cars without pre-existing rails in the panoramic roof also require a crossbar system, which is not included.

How to Install a Roof Rack on a Vehicle with a Sunroof?

Now that we know that installing a roof rack on a vehicle with a sunroof is possible let’s go over the process in detail.

Installing Roof Rack Supports Directly To the Vehicle’s Roof

This method is the most secure, but it can also be difficult and time-consuming. We recommend this type of installation for cars with panoramic roofs and lots of cargo (and if you’re a perfectionist).

The Process Requires:

Step 1: Decide on the style of roof rack you want. You can choose between J bars or square bars, and both roof bars are strong and durable. 

Step 2: Locate the vehicle’s roof seams. There should be two lines along each side of the roof seam to install the support clips.

Step 3: Drill holes (if needed) in the car’s roof seams. You want to make sure that the holes are big enough for the clips to fit through but small enough not to weaken the seam.

Step 4: Use an existing gutter or drill one of your own to avoid drilling screws into the car’s body. This will help you install the roof rack supports directly on the car’s roof.

Step 5: Attach the roof rack supports to the car’s gutter or drill holes in a new gutter. Ensure that they are very secure and won’t come off while driving. Now you can attach your favorite cross-bars!

Installing Roof Rack Supports Using Universal Clamps in Combination

This method is the most convenient, but it can be less sturdy. We recommend this type of installation for cars with panoramic roofs and medium cargo (if you want to take things at your own pace).

The Process Requires:

Step 1: Choose between J bars or square crossbars, both of which are strong and durable.

Step 2: Measure the width and length of your car’s panoramic roof.

Step 3: Choose either a single or double bar with universal clamps long enough to fit your vehicle’s measurements (longer bars can be cut down at home). If you choose a double bar, make sure it is wide enough to fit two roof racks.

Step 4: Look for clamps that are designed with the shape of your panoramic roof in mind, so it can secure your cross-bars securely to your vehicle without scratching its body.

If you’re concerned about scratches on the car’s body, be sure to move up and down the bar a few times while tightening or loosening the clamps.

Installation of Clamp-on Accessories in Panoramic Roofs without Pre-existing Rails

You may need clamp-on accessories that attach directly to the panoramic roof without any pre-existing rails for other types of accessories, such as bike racks. In that case, you can use this installation method.

The Process Requires:

Step 1: Measure the width and length of your car’s panoramic roof. You should be able to find a clamp or universal adapter with a rubber cushion that fits securely on the width and length of your car’s panoramic roof. 

Step 2: Tighten the rubber cushion to keep it in place with either a screwdriver or Allen key.

Step 3: Attach the crossbars. Make sure to tighten it up firmly to avoid falling off during transport.

Step 4: Decide on the style of the crossbar that best fits your needs (J bars or square).

Step 5: Test whether you need to cut down your crossbars if they’re too long. Use a hacksaw and do not cut through any key points where strength is required.

If you have successfully installed a panoramic roof rack, you should also consider a roof cargo box. There are a lot of choices in the market for panoramic roof-boxes, both small and large.

Sometimes, the wide selection makes it hard to pick one among hundreds of available products. If you are still unsure which panoramic roof box is best for you, consider reading reviews on the web or asking friends who already own one. 

Consideration for Rooftop Cargo Storage Box

If you have secure roof bars, adding a roof box should not be a problem. When looking for a strong rooftop carrier box, there are a few things you should consider before making your purchase such:

Size

It’s essential to know how much room you have on your rooftop before choosing the size of your panoramic roof box. Your choice of rooftop storage box should be big enough (such as Jegs rooftop cargo box) to carry your belongings but not too big to be bothersome.

Weight

Generally, most roof boxes are designed for minimal wind resistance and noise, so it’s better to opt for one that is lighter than the others.

Material

You should also consider the material used in the roof box. Most reliable rooftop carriers (such as the Thule sidekick cargo carrier) are made of aluminum and other lightweight tough materials because it is durable, strong, and rust-resistant.

Waterproofing System

Since you will be using your roof box for different purposes such as carrying luggage, groceries, and even sports equipment, it’s best if the product is waterproof.

But don’t worry because most carriers (such as Goplus waterproof cargo box) already come with a water-resistant and UV-reflective coating that ensures maximum protection from rain and harsh sunlight.

Mounting System

Finally, mount your panoramic roof-top cargo box properly to avoid any inconvenience. Most carriers (such as Yakima doubletrack cargo box) are easy to install, but you can always consult more experts for assistance if needed.

Security

You might want to consider a locking mechanism, just in case top roof cargo boxes are easy to steal. You can also increase security by installing a double lock system or monitoring device on your rooftop carrier box.

Capacity

Before purchasing high-quality rooftop carriers, you better know how much weight they can carry or hold. You may also need to consider the dimensions and carrying capacity of your racks just to determine if your selected accessory is compatible with your car.

FAQs

The following are some frequently asked questions that people are most curious about roof rack:

01. How Much Weight Can You Put On A Sunroof?

An average sunroof can hold between 120 and 200 pounds, including the panoramic sunroof. Glass panel sunroofs on a standard sedan should be able to support a weight of between 50 and 80 pounds.

02. Can Roof Racks Go On Any Car?

No. If you want to use a panoramic roof rack, make sure it is compatible with your car’s design and shape. Panoramic roof racks usually come in different types, such as factory-installed ones, universal ones made of steel or aluminum, and aftermarket ones custom-designed for specific models of cars.

03. Can I Put A Kayak Rack On My Vehicle With A Panoramic roof?

Yes. Different rack and kayak rack types will work on your vehicle with a sunroof. However, just be sure to install it properly so you won’t damage your vehicle’s finish or the rooftop carrier itself.

04. Can You Put a Rooftop Carrier Box on a Panoramic Sunroof?

Yes, you can carry a rooftop carrier box on a panoramic sunroof, but be sure to check the weight limit of your panoramic sunroof. Most factory-installed and aftermarket crossbars are designed for regular roofs and. 

In Conclusion

A Roof rack may seem like a simple solution for carrying items on your car, but they are intended to be installed by professionals. If you’re unsure how to put roof racks on a car with a sunroof or feel that the task is too difficult for you alone, don’t hesitate to call in professional help.

We hope that our insightful article was able to answer your question successfully. We appreciate you taking the time to read about the roof rack, and we hope that you found the information helpful.