Feedback

Everything You Need To Know About Roof Cargo Baskets

What Are Roof Cargo Baskets?

Roof Racks are a great addition to any vehicle as they can be used to lug around a variety of different goods without any hassle of loading and unloading like in a trunk. They can be directly accessed from the top of the roof and are every traveller’s best companion. Roof Cargo Baskets are one such element that can be used to carry camping goods to beach gear all in an easy and convenient way.

Where Are Roof Cargo Baskets Located?

The roof cargo baskets are typically mounted onto the roof racks but there are other alterations like the winch mounted cargo basket.

Types Of Roof Cargo Baskets

There are many different roof cargo baskets available in the market and usually only differ by their sizes and their mounting location especially in off-roading vehicles where they are mounted to the vehicle frame instead of the roof. 

Important Features Of Roof Cargo Baskets

Roof baskets mount onto the roof rails or racks and can help carry extra supplies while keeping room for other goods in the trunk and your cabin clutter-free. There are essentially two types of baskets – one that attaches to the roof of the car and other that attaches to the winch, but the winch access basket does not allow for carting a lot of cargo like the roof baskets. They are made of heavy-duty materials like steel or aluminum and can withstand a lot of loads. They help increase the amount of storage the vehicle has and allows for hauling extra supplies while retaining enough room for goods in the trunk and space in the cabin for passengers.

Frequent Problems With Roof Cargo Baskets

These are made of metal and with prolonged use can undergo corrosion if not maintained properly. Loading and unloading of goods may result in the paint getting deteriorated which can allow rust stemming. Improper installation can prove hazardous to anyone on the road and the vehicle occupants as well. The luggage or equipment must be secured to the basket well or it may cause unnecessary harm. 

Symptoms Of Roof Cargo Baskets

After the installation of the cargo baskets or other equipment and during the vehicle’s movement if there is a definite rattling sound coming from the rack or roof then it can mean that the equipment is either not mounted properly or the basket is loose from the roof.

Tools Needed For Roof Cargo Baskets

In order to secure the cargo basket to the roof rack of the car well make sure to utilize the following tools:

Top Brands For Roof Cargo Baskets

When it comes to vehicle owners choice, the brands really matter a lot. You might pay a premium for a specific car part brand, over time, as it has created a perception of quality, stability as well as trust. There are some leading car parts brands which are more than just products or services as they give rise to memories and emotions related with the quality. So have a look at some top brands for Roof Cargo Baskets:

Related Parts For Roof Cargo Baskets

Here are all the roof rack and its mounting parts for you to better understand and make the choice for your needs:

Total Costs & Repair Times, Effort For Roof Cargo Baskets

It is good practice to tighten the retaining bolts that hold the roof rack in order to ascertain their proper fitment. Make sure to properly install the roof cargo baskets to the roof rack so as to minimize damage to any components of the car or the equipment. Stow them away in a secure place when not in use since unnecessary sun or element exposure can be avoided and will prolong the life of the basket. The prices for a roof cargo basket can vary from 300 to 600 $ depending on the size, construction and materials

How To Change Roof Cargo Baskets?

Once you have your roof rack installed it is a simple process to install most accessories like a roof cargo basket which can help reduce clutter and free up extra space in your cabin for other supplies. Here is how you install a roof cargo basket:

  • Make sure your roof rack is securely fastened to your vehicle’s roof. 

  • Start by assembling the cargo basket to the size appropriate to your roof length.

  • The assembling will require you to insert the shafts of the two basket ends into each other and then secured using bolts and nuts. Use the right tools to do the job efficiently and effectively. 

  • Once the cargo basket is assembled, place it on the crossbars. Make sure to use any protective layering that goes between the basket and the racks. 

  • To secure the basket to the rack use the provided U-bolts and fasten the nuts using a ratchet and the appropriate socket.

  • Repeat this on all the securing points on the basket and the installation of the basket is complete.

persona image
John Framigllia
Technical Writer
Our technical writer is known for simplifying automotive parts and services. Intuitive with various vehicles and manufacturers, he knows how to simplify complicated problems.