June 18, 2025 Dean Horton

Roof Bar Mounting Systems Explained: Clamp, Track or Raised Rail?

When it comes to fitting roof bars, the mounting system on your vehicle matters just as much as the bars themselves.
Get it wrong, and your bars won’t fit — or worse, they’ll be unsafe.

This guide breaks down the most common roof mounting types in the UK — so you can choose the right bars, brackets and accessories with confidence.

🔧 Why Mounting Style Matters

Roof bars attach differently depending on your car’s roof layout.
Knowing your mount type helps you:

Order compatible bars
Choose the right accessories
Mount your roof tent, box or basket securely

👉 Use our Vehicle Fitment Tool to check your setup instantly.

🚗 1. Raised Roof Rails

These are the most common on SUVs and estates. They run from front to back, and you can fit your hand underneath.

✅ Easy to spot
✅ Compatible with clamp-style feet
✅ Often found on Audi, Volvo, VW, Skoda, etc.

🔗 Shop Bars for Raised Rails

🚙 2. Flush Roof Rails

Flush rails are similar but sit tight to the roof, with no gap underneath.
They look sleek but need special clamps or T-track feet.

✅ Found on newer models (BMW X series, Tesla, Mazda CX)
✅ Requires specific fit kit or feet
✅ Secure and aerodynamic

🔧 Pro tip: Many flush rails use T-track mounts — ideal for accessories.

🚘 3. Fixed Mounting Points

These are factory-threaded holes in the roof (usually hidden under small covers).
You’ll need bars that bolt directly into these points.

✅ Found on hatchbacks, estates & some vans
✅ Clean look with no rails
✅ Secure and quiet

Examples: Ford Focus, Honda Civic, some Peugeot & Vauxhall models

🚫 4. Bare Roof / No Rails or Points

If your car has a smooth roof with no rails or mount points, don’t panic — clamp systems exist!

These use:

Door jamb clamps
Rubber feet
Vehicle-specific fit kits

✅ Common on hatchbacks and older cars
✅ Requires perfect fit to avoid leaks or scratches
✅ Brands like Thule & Farad offer custom clamp kits

🔗 Read: Can You Fit Roof Bars Without Roof Rails?

📦 5. T-Track Bars vs Clamp-On Bars (What’s the Difference?)

Once you’ve mounted the bars, how do you fit accessories?

Feature	T-Track Bars	Clamp-On Bars
Mount Type	Slide-in channel	Clamp around bar
Looks	Sleek, minimal	Slightly bulkier
Best for	Modular accessories	Universal fits
Bar Type	Usually aluminium	Usually steel or square alloy