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How to Choose the Right Roof Bars for Your Vehicle (UK Guide)
Choosing roof bars can feel confusing — but getting the right fit is easier than you think. Whether you’re carrying a roof box, bike rack, or even a roof tent, your setup starts with the right base. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to choose the perfect roof bars for your vehicle — no guesswork, no wrong fits.
🚗 Step 1: Know Your Roof Type
Not all car roofs are the same — and that’s where most mistakes happen. Check your vehicle and match it to one of the roof types below:
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Raised Roof Rails
These are rails with a gap between the rail and roof — you can slide your fingers underneath. Easy to spot and very common on SUVs and estates. -
Flush Roof Rails
These sit directly against the roof with no gap underneath. Often look sleek, but need specific foot packs. -
Fixed Points
You’ll find small flap covers or threaded holes in the roof, usually hidden under plastic caps. These are built-in mounting points from the manufacturer. -
Bare Roof / Normal Roof
No rails or mounting points — these require clamp-style roof bar systems that grip the door frames.
👉 Not sure what your roof type is? Use our vehicle lookup tool to filter roof bars by make and model.
🔩 Step 2: Choose the Right Mounting System
Once you know your roof type, you’ll need a compatible mounting system. Roof bar kits typically come in 3 parts:
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Roof Bars (steel or aluminium)
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Foot Pack (connects to your specific roof type)
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Fitting Kit (tailored clamps or brackets for your exact vehicle)
We stock full kits at MyRoofBars.co.uk so you don’t have to build your system from scratch — just enter your car’s details and we’ll show you what fits.
⚖️ Step 3: Consider Your Load and Usage
Think about what you’re carrying:
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Roof Boxes: Opt for aluminium bars for lower wind noise and easier accessory fitting.
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Bike Racks: Check that your bars have T-track slots or round profiles compatible with your rack.
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Roof Tents: You’ll need higher weight-rated bars — usually aluminium, with strong foot packs.
🔗 Read more: Best Roof Bar Setups for Roof Tents (Coming soon in the Roof Tent category)
🧰 Step 4: Ease of Installation
Most modern roof bars are designed for easy at-home fitting. You’ll usually need:
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A hex key (often supplied)
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A torque wrench or similar tool to ensure tight, even pressure
If you're unsure, check out our upcoming blog:
🔗 How to Fit Roof Bars Like a Pro — No Garage Needed
🔒 Step 5: Don’t Forget Security
Always consider adding locking end caps or a full lockable system — especially if you're storing gear in roof boxes or carrying expensive bikes.
Our full kits include optional locks and keys, and we offer security add-ons on our Accessories page.
✅ Summary: What You Need to Get It Right
✔️ Know your roof type
✔️ Use a complete kit (bar + foot + fitting kit)
✔️ Match the setup to your use (bike rack, tent, box etc.)
✔️ Choose aluminium for lighter, quieter travel
✔️ Always check max load limits for safety