Roof Bar Safety Tips: Load Limits, Secure Fitting & Driving Advice

Roof bars open up a world of adventure — from carrying roof boxes and bikes to roof tents and trade gear. But getting the most out of them means using them safely. A loose bar or an overloaded setup isn’t just annoying — it can be dangerous.

Here’s everything you need to know to stay safe on the road.

⚖️ Know Your Vehicle’s Load Limit

Every car, SUV or van has a maximum roof load limit, usually found in the owner’s manual or online. This includes:

• The weight of the bars

• Any accessories (roof box, rack, tent)

• The contents themselves

Typical load limits:

• Small cars: 50–75kg

• Larger cars/SUVs: 75–100kg

• Vans: Up to 150kg

🔗 Use Our Vehicle Lookup Tool to find roof bars that fit your vehicle and stay within load guidelines.

📌 Tip: The “dynamic load limit” applies while driving. If you're using a roof tent, check the “static” load limit for when the car is parked.

🔧 Fit Roof Bars Properly

Even the best bars are dangerous if not installed correctly. Make sure to:

✅ Follow These Steps:

• Use the exact foot pack for your roof type

• Tighten fittings evenly — never over-tighten one side

• Check spacing — bars are usually spaced 70–100 cm apart

• Lock your bars if security fittings are included

🔗 Full Step-by-Step Guide: How to Fit Roof Bars

🚗 Drive Smarter with Gear on the Roof

Once your load is up, your driving needs to adapt:

🔄 Key Considerations:

• Watch your speed — drive slower, especially in wind or rain

• Account for height — watch for car parks, barriers and trees

• Take corners gently — high loads affect vehicle balance

• Avoid hard braking — gear can shift if not strapped correctly

🧰 Secure Your Load

Loose or shifting loads can be catastrophic at speed. Always:

• Use ratchet straps or locking systems

• Double-check fastenings before setting off

• Keep weight balanced across the bars

• Stop and re-check after 30–60 mins of driving

🔗 Shop Roof Bar Accessories — including tie-downs, clamps, and wind deflectors.

🧽 Maintain Your Bars & Accessories

Looking after your gear increases its lifespan and safety.

🧼 Roof Bar Care:

• Clean after each trip, especially in winter (salt buildup causes corrosion)

• Dry before storing to prevent rust

• Check rubber pads and fixings every few months

• Store bars flat when not in use — never bent or leaned up

🔗 Car Care & Cleaning Range

❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid

📚 Related Blog Posts:

• How to Fit Roof Bars

• How to Reduce Wind Noise from Roof Bars

• Steel vs Aluminium Roof Bars

🔗 Useful Links:

• Vehicle Compatibility Tool

• All Roof Bars

• Contact Us for Fitting Advice