Agreeably, elegance is what every Rav4 owner would like to accomplish by mounting a car rack on top of their vehicle roof.
In that case, choosing the best roof rack for RAV4 is one of the things that one should consider when buying or looking around for roof racks.
In most cases, seeing vehicle roof racks on other peoples’ cars evokes a feeling that makes it almost impossible to resist the urge to get a roof rack.
We might wonder where to find the best roof racks for our vehicles in some cases. Deciding to buy a vehicle roof rack without having the right information is a wild goose chase.
Why? That is because there are so many models and brands of vehicle roof racks out there.
Settling on the best rack that will bring about value for your money might prove more challenging.
For that reason, there is a need to furnish oneself with all information and what to look for when thinking of buying a vehicle rack.
What is the Best Roof Rack for Toyota RAV4?
The best roof rack that has emerged top in various models is the Autekcomma Roof Rack. There are several reasons why it is the best roof rack so far.
The reasons have been derived from its quality and durability. It is durable and made of quality materials, and it is one rack that many prefer over other types of vehicle racks.
Why is Autekcomma Roof Rack the best roof for Toyota Rav4?
Compared to other rav4 racks, Autekcomma emerges the best for several reasons. The first reason it is best is that it does not react with elements.
In other words, it does not react with elements in the air, such as oxygen and other gases.
In that case, it doesn’t corrode at any given time. Its inability to corrode is what makes it durable and the best. It is made of aluminum, which is why it is corrosion-resistant.
Secondly, it has been designed with automatic lock mechanisms that prevent dethatching.
No unauthorized individual can remove this rack from the vehicle’s roof maliciously.
The anti-theft barriers are designed so that any kind of hurried dismantling is impossible.
Rav4 owners can park their vehicles far from their eye reach with such locks because this rack cannot be vandalized or removed.
Top 10 Best Roof Rack For Rav4 Review 2022
01. Autekcomma
Highlighted Features
- Made of Aluminum
- Fits Toyota RAV4 2019-2021
- Coated with Matte Powder
- Aluminum bar of 2mm thick
- Non-corrosive
- Metal lock mechanisms
The Autekcomma roof rack is light in weight and designed based on aerodynamic principles. Being aerodynamic, it is very effective during high-speed vehicle movement.
Additionally, being aerodynamic reduces noise that is sometimes experienced with non-aerodynamic racks.
Less wind resistance during high speed ensures that the rack is long-lasting and does away with the need to replace the roof rack regularly.
It is made of aluminum, and one of the qualities of aluminum is that it is light in weight but resistant to breakages.
Additionally, the aluminum rack frame has been coated with Matte powder which ensures that elements are not in direct contact with the aluminum frame.
With 2mm thickness, it creates a very thick bark that can withstand the weight of whatever is placed on top.
This roof rack has turned into a multi-purpose carrier with a high tensile aluminum frame.
It can carry the weight of your mountain bike, roof toolbox, campers, tent, canoes, and small boats.
The Matte coating is scratch and scours resistant hence no need to worry about scratches.
It has an additional metal lock mechanism. This is an upgrade from the original versions.
With such modification, the Autekcomma roof rack has safe lock screws that prevent anyone from removing them or vandalizing them.
Pros
- Durable and long-lasting
- It takes a short time to install
- Non-corrosive and resistant to scratch
- It is aerodynamic
- It is multipurpose
- Has an anti-theft lock system
Cons
- May not fit earlier models of rav4
02. Brightlines Aero
Highlighted Features
- From Brightline brand
- Holds 150 pounds load
- Mounted as Roof Racks, Rails, and Cross Bars
- Weighs 8.28 pounds
- Measures 46.06 by 7.48 by 4.25 inches
The Brightlines Aero Roof Rack comes as a complete set that can be mounted as a roof rack, crossbars, and rails.
Just as the name suggests, it has an attractive aerodynamic shape. That ensures that the rack does encounter minimal air resistance during vehicle movement.
It can withstand a maximum weight of 150lbs only when the weight is evenly distributed over the rack.
It can comfortably carry camping luggage such as personal bags, kayaks, canoes, and even bicycles with such a weight capacity.
The rack frame is tough enough to hold such weights over long-distance travel.
It is a custom design that fits in all RAV4s with roof rails already installed.
With such a custom design, it is possible to buy them without worrying if they will fit into your Toyota RAV4. It has been manufactured with Toyota rav4 in mind.
It comes with a simple instruction manual, and even without a manual, it presents with ease of installation.
It can typically be installed within a few minutes without the help of a professional mechanic.
Pros
- They are aerodynamic
- It can carry a relatively huge load
- Universally customized for Toyota rav4
- Easy to install and dismantle
Cons
- May not carry loads beyond 150lbs
03. BoungeRV
Highlighted Features
- Mainly black
- Customized for 2019/2020 and 2021/2022 models
- Made of Aluminum
- Weighs 10.63 pounds
- Dimensions of 43.9 by 9 by 3.7 inches
BoungeRV Car Rack has been designed as roof racks, luggage racks, and crossbars.
It is multipurpose as they are critical for holding loads such as camping tents, bags, sports bikes, etc.
Having its frames made of aluminum, they are heavy-duty and can be used for a long period without replacing them.
Being made of aluminum makes it light but strong. These roof bars are made of high-quality aluminum, lighter than steel.
The lightweight characteristic ensures that unnecessary weight is done away with and compensated with the weight of the luggage it needs to ferry.
Although they are light, they are highly tensile, meaning that they cannot yield before the maximum weight has been achieved. The maximum weight that this rack can carry is 72kgs.
It is compatible with all rav4 that were released in 2019 and earlier. Such universality is crucial as it ensures that one will not need to buy new racks every time they buy a new rav4 series.
Pros
- Compatible with 2019 to 2022 rav4 series
- Made of high tensile aluminum hence strong
- It can be mounted as rails, roof rack, and crossbars
- Easy & simple installation
Cons
- Not compatible with adventure models
04. LEDKINGDOMUS
Highlighted Features
- Black in color
- Compatible with 2013 to 2018 series
- Aluminum coated with AS plastic
- Measures 46.85 by 4.53 by 6.3 inches
- Holds 101.9 pounds
LEDKINGDOMUS Cross Bar Roof Rack 2013-2018 has been designed to fit Toyota RV4 2013-2018 series universally.
In that case, all the rav4 that were released between 2013 and 2018 can be fitted with these roof racks. Before purchasing, it is crucial to determine the model and year of release of your vehicle.
Having been made of high-grade aluminum alloy, this roof rack is strong and can withstand a weight that is not beyond 46kgs.
With heavy-duty mounting brackets, it can carry a sizeable amount of luggage necessary during camping, sports adventures, and even holiday outings.
The materials used for making this roof rack provide sturdiness, and this is the best for holding toolboxes and compartments for dogs and other small domestic animals.
With this roof rack, it is possible to carry your cat house less than 46.2kgs.
LEDKINGDOMUS Cross Bar Roof Rack 2013-2018 comes with an auto-lock system that locks automatically onto the roof rails. It is for that reason that they are easy to install.
The installation instruction makes it easy for anyone to install and remove.
It forms an aerodynamic rack on the roof. This feature reduces wind resistance and noise that can be experienced during motion.
It is also the basis of high clearance with the roof hence allowing mounting of more accessories.
Pros
- No drilling is required during mounting
- Designed aerodynamically
- Die-cast mounting bracket
- Mainframe made of sturdy aluminum
- It fits onto Rav4 2013 to 2018
Cons
- It cannot be folded
05. 47” Aluminum Universal Roof Rack
Highlighted Features
- Black in color
- Made of Aluminum
- COWVIE brand
- For Raised rails
- Measures 48 by 5.25 by 4.5 inches
- Extendable and Universal
- Weighs 9.30 pounds
47” Aluminum Universal Roof Rack is one of the rav4 racks that has made it into this list for several reasons. Firstly, it is the best roof rack for raised side rails.
The raises are crucial for ensuring that a free flow of air escapes over the roof. This particular rack is the best for raised rails as they allow for extension shrinking.
Designed with hook feet that can be locked onto a rail with 0.8 to 2.16 inches wide, this roof rack can be fitted into different SUVs.
Additionally, the crossbar allows for the loading of various accessories. The luggage is not limited to bags but heavy items such as small boats.
It comes with 4 anti-theft locks; this keeps the lock in place and secure, and the crossbars can be left on the roof without the need for extra security.
The special T-slots allow for easy attachment onto the rails. These slots are also easy to remove.
The crossbars are made of aluminum.
Aluminum materials are light in weight and durable. With such a material, the weight of this roof rack has been reduced while it can hold an enormous weight of 195lbs maximum.
47” Aluminum Universal Roof Rack is a modern design that combines strength and quality. This is the reason why it is ISO certified.
Pros
- Made of high-grade aluminum hence durable
- Extendable hence universal for all SUVs
- T-slots allows for easy mounting
- Lightweight but can hold a relatively big load
- Technically designed to enhance roof stability
Cons
- It cannot be folded
06. TUNTROL Roof Rack
Highlighted Features
- Exclusively black
- Made of Aluminum
- Holds 165 pounds of weight
- Weighs 10.83 pounds
- Measures 43.25 by 8.25 by 4 inches
The good thing about this roof rack is that the crossbars have been designed to fit all rav4 2019 to 2022 universally.
However, they may not perfectly fit TRD off-roads and adventure types.
TUNTROL Roof Rack crossbars are made of the die-casting aluminum mold with special clamps.
The aluminum is 2mm thick, and this thickness is what gives it resilience to weight. It can therefore hold 165lbs of weight.
Far from the ease of installation, the crossbar is protected from corrosion by black matte powder.
It has been designed with the water-drop technique, which has helped reduce wind force during motion.
It is very rare to hear noises during movement with such a streamline.
Pros
- Made of quality aluminum hence strong and durable
- They are aerodynamically designed to reduce wind resistance.
- Tensile enough to hold oversized items
- Crossbars can fit various rav4 models
- It can be installed using simple techniques
Cons
- May not fit all SUVs
07. BrightLines
Highlighted Features
- Made of Aluminum
- Weighs 12.27 pounds
- Dimension: 47.25 by 12.75 by 5 inches
- BRIGHTLINE Brand
- For Rav4 LE, XLE, and XSE
This is one of the best roof racks for rav4, which is why it has emerged seventh in this list. It is among the popular roof rack because it is high-grade aluminum.
Being made of such a material ensures that it is light but can withstand stress accrued from the weight mounted on top of it.
It has been manufactured with high precision, and it fits all rav4 by millimeter precision.
This is the type of roof rack that universally fits all rav4 models except the Adventure and the TRD Off-road. One does not need to worry about the possibility that it would not fit.
Brightline crossbar comes with two crossbars and all the necessary items such as crews, screw lock mechanisms, and a detailed instruction manual.
Installation or mounting has never been easier with this product.
Moreover, the whole item is very light as it weighs just over 12 pounds.
With this, it becomes easy to mount and reduces the unnecessary weight over the vehicle’s roof.
Despite being light, the aluminum is very strong, which is why it can more load weight over it.
Pros
- It comes with a detailed instruction manual
- Light in weight since it is made of aluminum
- Strong and holds a relatively huge weight
- High-grade aluminum means durability
- Manufactured by a trusted manufacturer
Cons
- It May not fit RAV4 adventure and TRD off-road
08. Autorun Roof Rack
Highlighted Features
- Silver in color
- Designed for passenger car
- Holds up to 150 pounds load
- Weighs 10.03 pounds
- Measures 45.4 by nine by 5 inches
The Autorun Roof Rack falls into the eighth slot in this list. One of the most striking features of this roof rack is the smooth silver surface.
Unlike other raised racks, it is designed to lay low hence reducing the center of gravity on the load.
It is also streamlined, and this is crucial for reducing wind resistance that produces noise during motion.
It is made of strong stainless aluminum crossbars. This gives it strength and durability at all times.
By nature, aluminum is always light, which is crucial in compensating for the weight that needs to be carried by the crossbar.
Lightweight allows for ease of installation as well.
The crossbars can fit the rav4 models of 2014 to 2018 comfortably. That gives it universality.
It comes with pre-drilled holes and a slot where the rails can be attached. For that reason, no extra work is needed when installing it on your rav4.
Once mounted, it provides an extra platform for carrying various shipments/loads.
Pros
- Its silver and smooth surface enhances the elegance
- Made of aluminum hence light
- Aluminum material is strong and mar resistant
- Compatible with various rav4 models
- Easy to install and remove
Cons
- It May not come in a desirable color
09. YITAMOTOR Roof Rack
Highlighted Features
- Black in Color
- Can accommodate 176lbs
- Fit Rav4 2019-2022 all editions
- Structural weight 10.13 pounds
- Dimensions: 40.95 by 6.5 by 5.91
- Made of Aluminum and ABS plastic
For those with rav4 2019-2019, Yitamotor is highly compatible with their roof rails. However, it is important to check the car model release year and the make before buying.
When mounted on the roof rails, the crossbars of this particular rack allow for more storage space.
It allows you to carry even awkward-shaped personal belongings such as bicycles and fishing gear.
Compared to other rav4 roof racks, the crossbars can withstand stress when loaded with 80kgs items.
This is because it is made of quality and high-graded aluminum. The aluminum frame can withstand the stress that allows for more weight accommodation though light in weight.
With just an instruction manual and a pre-packed wrench and bolts, one can easily install the roof rack on pre-positioned holes along the roof rails.
There is no extra help needed when installing this roof rack at all.
This roof rack is also highly durable and resistant to elements as the main aluminum frame has been coated with ABS plastic powder coat.
Additionally, this coating adds an extra layer over the aluminum crossbar frame. That promotes strength.
Pros
- Resistant to weather elements
- Durable
- Compatible with RAV models of 2019-2022
- Increases load space for extra loads
- Carries comparatively heavy load (80kgs)
- Quick & easy installation
Cons
- Not compatible with all RAV4s
10. Autorun Silver Roof Rack
Highlighted Features
- Silver in color
- Aluminum material
- Structural weight of 12.12 pounds
- Measuring 68 by 7.8 by 6.1 inches
- Meant for passenger cars
Autorun roof racks come with the best OE style rail that acts as a replacement for any RAV4 2014 to 2018.
If one has an old roof rail, this brand has the best roof rails that one can ever find. That is why it has made it to the top 12 best roof racks for rav4.
It is made of highly forged aluminum that makes it strong and durable so that it provides support for heavy loads on top of the cross rails.
With such durability, an additional roof storage space is always enhanced. It can hold a maximum load of 165lbs. When converted, this is approximately 75kgs.
The rails are designed so that they lay low and closer to the roof. This provides stability to the rack as well as that of the load.
The streamlined nature provides for reduced wind resistance.
The roof rails are the foundation of mounting a luggage rack that can hold a variety of cargo such as fishing gear, kayaks, mountain bikes, and camping gear.
It comes when it has already been drilled with this provision, with no drilling and resizing if required. It is easy to bold in place within minutes.
Pros
- Made of premium quality aluminum
- Easy to assemble
- Can be used as replacement rails
- Low profiled and streamlined
Cons
- Best for RAV4 2014-2018 only
11. BougeRV Car Roof Rack Cross Bars
Highlighted Features
- Black in color
- For RAV4 2013-2018, all editions
- Holds 150 pounds weight
- Dimensions: 45.5 by 7.24 by 4.5
- Structural weight 8.28pounds
BougeRV has been specifically designed for Toyota RAV4 from 2013 to 2018.
However, the good news is that being extendible, it can comfortably fit on to XLE, ADVENTURE, and HYBRID, among others. The ability to extend is a plus.
The pair of aluminum crossbars is strong and light. It can carry 68kgs hence versatile for vehicles that need to carry loads.
Its strength allows it to provide an additional platform for carrying extra items and equipment such as boats and camping gear.
It has foot slots that lock into the roof rails, and it clicks with little effort. With the help of a detailed instruction manual, it is the easiest to install.
Once installed, it provides enough clearance with the roof that ensures that the load is suspended and that the load gives enough room for roof windows.
It is perfect for RAV4s with roofs on top as they can be pushed back and clipped far from the window.
It is light in weight, and its structural weight is perfect because it does not add unnecessary weight to the body of the vehicle.
Pros
- Compatible with all RAV4s
- Light in weight but strong
- It cannot be corroded
- Hasslefree installation
- Provides wide clearance with the roof
Cons
- May not hold weight beyond 150 pounds
12. Yeeoy Aluminum Roof Rack
Highlighted Features
- Made of Aluminum
- Black in color
- Measures 41.5 by 8.6 by 5.6 inches
- Smooth black surface
- Structural weight: 10.53 pounds
- Holds 100lbs maximum
This product closes the best 12 in the list. It is one of the popular roof racks for rav4 not only because of the external appearance but also because of its material.
The internal frame is made of stress-resistant aluminum alloy. With such structural strength, it can hold 100lbs.
It has pre-designed holes that allow for bolts to be attached to the roof rail of your rav4. This does away with the need to drill before mounting on the rails.
Moreover, their aerodynamic design allows air to flow over it at high speed, which easily reduces the air drag effect.
The foot end of each crossbar and rail comes been fitted with a rubber washer, ensuring grip protection against scratch during tightening.
The rubber washers act as shock absorbers in heavy and shaky loads.
They fit perfectly on the roofs of RAV4 2019 to 2021 and RAV4 LE, XLE, and XSE, hence providing an extended range of compatibility with many models of rav4 vehicles.
The crossbars come with clamps that can be adjusted for easy installation. It comes with all the necessary hardware as well as the installation manual.
All that needs to be done is mounting and bolting.
Pros
- Made of aluminum alloy hence strong
- Aerodynamically designed hence little air resistance.
- Rigid when installed for maximum load
- Simple & quick installation
- Custom cut and drilled
Cons
- May not fit onto RAV 2014 to 2018
Buying Consideration For The Best Roof Rack For RAV4
Roof racks for any type of vehicle are crucial requirements that every car owner thinks about at some point.
Deciding on the best roof rack for Toyota rav4 might be an uphill task, especially when one doesn’t have the right advice and information.
In most cases, buying out of impulse and blindly might lead one into buying the wrong type of roof rack.
There are a variety of roof racks for rav4 out in the market, but not all of them will suit one’s specific needs.
Because of the latter reason, you need to consider several factors when deciding, shopping around, and buying a roof rack for rav4.
What are some of the factors to consider when buying a roof rack for your vehicle?
Material
What is your desired roof rack made of? When such a question arises, you need to acquaint yourself with knowledge of what material has been used to make your desired roof rack.
Most of the rav4 roof racks are made of an aluminum frame. However, except a few, most of them are coated with plastic.
The plastic itself is that of matte powder. It is important to consider aluminum rails and crossbars coated with plastic.
The cost
RAV4 roof racks are different in size, material, and installation method. Such differences bring about differing prices as well.
If you are considering buying a roof rack for your rav4, it is critical to consider your budget first?
How much do you have at disposal and are willing to spend on a roof rack?
One needs to consider cost-effectiveness and the amount of money available before buying a roof rack.
The size
It is a fact that different models of rav4 released in different years may be mounted with universal roof crossbars as long as the rails are already installed.
However, it is crucial to consider that some roof racks are of different dimensions. When buying a roof rack, being aware of its size and volume is very important.
Where to mount
Some racks can be mounted as tow racks, but the most common ones are roof racks. If you settle for roof racks for rav4, you need to consider buying aerodynamically designed ones.
Why is that important? Aerodynamic roof racks offer less wind resistance hence reducing speed restrictions.
Holding capacity
How many loads do you need to carry? Different roof racks have been designed to hold specific load capacity. In that case, one needs to decide how much load needs to be ferried.
It is critical to buy a robust roof rack for rav4 if the huge load. Small loads require smaller roof racks that are made of relatively thinner aluminum.
Type of locks and fasteners
All roof racks depend on locks and fasteners to stay on top of the roof rails. Some racks are designed to clip into position without bolts or screws, while some require crews.
When deciding on which rack to buy, it is critical to consider what suits you regarding ease of installation.
Use
Some rav4 owners may need a roof rack whenever the need arises. Some need it during the holiday, camping, and transfers to other locations.
However, some need them regularly. When buying a roof rack for your rav4, consider whether you will use them regularly and then decide on durable or less durable ones.
Color
Most roof racks come in silver, black, and aluminum shine colors. Before buying one for your rav4, you need to take a minute and decide on the color that makes your day.
The color of a roof rack is the basis for enhancing the elegance of your car.
Best Roof Rack For RAV4 Installations
Most Common FAQs
Can rav4 roof racks hold more than the weight stipulated in the user manual?
The roof racks can hold more weight in some cases, but it depends on various factors.
Firstly, they can hold more weight when the roof rails are of low profile, and the crossbar is of low profile as well.
The lowered center of gravity allows for an extra weight allowance.
Why are most rav4 roof racks not fit for Off-road types?
The Off-road types are relatively wider and robust; on the other hand, most RAV4 types are smaller, possibly narrow.
That is why these roof racks are not meant for Off-road types.
What makes the cost of rav4 roof racks differ from one rack to another?
The cost is relative to the size and thickness of aluminum and the amount and type of plastic coating.
Those racks designed to hold more load are made of high-grade aluminum. Such a roof rack will cost more than those made of a varying grade of aluminum.
What are the best roof racks for mounting heavy toolbox?
Considering that toolboxes are heavier than other accessories, the best rav4 roof rack is that which has been designed with thick aluminum.
It is important to compare the dimensions of a roof rack before buying. Moreover, load capacity should answer this question.
Are adjustable roof crossbars in rav4 racks weaker than non-adjustable ones?
The adjustable roof rack cross bars might not withhold so much weight pressure when the weight limit is exceeded.
Adjustable roof racks must therefore hold when the specified load capacity is maintained. However, this does not mean that they are weak.
Can I install roof racks on my rav4 without help from an expert?
Yes, the good thing about roof racks is that they are easy to install.
With the help of an instruction manual and common sense, one can easily install them without the need for an expert.
Some of them come with pre-drilled holes and slots that allow for easy mounting.
What maximum speed limit works when carrying luggage on rav4 roof racks?
Although the roof rack structure obeys aerodynamic principles, the load on top of it might lead to great resistance from the wind.
Depending on what you are carrying, your speed limit can vary from 70 to 80 kilometers per hour. Awkward-shaped luggage may force one to reduce speed.
Is it possible to repair broken Toyota Rav4 roof racks?
It is impossible to repair the roof racks once they are broken. This is because its frames are made of aluminum and then coated with plastic.
Aluminum, unlike steel, cannot be welded together.
After how long should I consider replacing my roof rack with a new one?
There is no need to replace your rav4 roof rack if it still has structural integrity. Being made of aluminum means that it can withstand breakage.
It should be used as long it is not broken unless otherwise. If it looks scratched, spray paint might make it look new and ready to serve.
Conclusion
Agreeably, people will always face decision problems when trying to buy the right and the best roof rack for RAV4.
This might be due to a lack of proper information about the best racks. There are several best roof racks for Toyota RAV4 you can find in the market.
However, the inability to decide on the right one may delay your ordering.
When buying a roof rack for rav4, the vehicle’s cost, size, material, load capacity, and model are very important.
Being aware of these factors will certainly provide the basis for making the right decisions.
If you are confused, the first step before buying a roof rack is visiting stores online, going through customer reviews, and frequently asking questions.
That will serve you with critical ideas that could help you make the right decisions.
