June 18, 2025 Dean Horton

Can You Fit Roof Bars Without Roof Rails? (Yes — Here’s How)

Think you need factory roof rails to fit roof bars? Think again.
Thousands of UK vehicles come with a bare roof — and you can still install roof bars safely, securely, and legally using the right clamp-style system.

In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how roof bars work without rails, what to look out for, and which kits are designed for a no-rails setup.

🧾 What Is a Bare Roof?

A bare roof (also called a “normal roof” or “naked roof”) is simply a vehicle roof that has:

❌ No raised or flush rails
❌ No visible mounting points
✅ Smooth, uninterrupted edges above the doors

You’ll typically find this setup on hatchbacks, smaller saloons, older vans, and some budget-spec SUVs.

✅ Can You Fit Roof Bars to a Bare Roof?

Yes — with a clamp-style roof bar system.

These kits include:

Roof bars (aluminium or steel)
Foot packs (designed to grip the door frame)
Vehicle-specific fitting kit (rubber pads + clamps that match your car’s roof profile)

👉 Browse Roof Bar Kits for Bare Roofs

🛠️ How Do Clamp Kits Work?

Open your car doors
Position the foot packs on the roof
Place the rubber pads where they touch the roof
Hook the metal clamps into the door frame
Tighten using the supplied tool — evenly on both sides

🔐 Many clamp kits include locking covers for added security.

🧠 Pro Tips for Bare Roof Installs

Always measure bar placement as per instructions
Check door seal clearance before tightening
Re-tighten after the first 50–100 miles
Avoid using clamp bars if your doors use frameless glass

Need help choosing a clamp system? Message our support team — we’ll match the right kit to your exact car.

🔐 Are Clamp Kits Safe?

Yes — when installed correctly. Modern systems are rigorously tested and often rated for 50–75kg dynamic load.
Just make sure you follow the fitting guide, and never exceed your vehicle’s roof load limit.