Owing the best quality roof rack is essential for jeep owners. To begin with, you get to clear cabin space and transport fragile products with utter care. Moreover, roof racks help to balance the weight of items proportionately on the roof. That said, it is essential to pick the right roof rack from a plethora of options. You need to keep several aspects in mind before purchasing the best jeep roof rack. For instance, overall quality, ease of installation, and durability place a significant role.
If you plan to buy a roof rack for the first time, then go through the article below. In particular, the present article includes a genuine review of the 10 alternatives in the market. Besides, you will also get a brief introduction to the buying guide. Now you can buy the best and most cost-effective roof rack without any hassle. Last but not least, the present review guide includes top FAQs asked by customers.
Meanwhile, you can check Jeep JK Ball Joints for your vehicle.
Comparison Table
Table of The Best Jeep Roof Rack
| IMAGE | BRAND | PRICE ON AMAZON |
|---|---|---|
  | 01. Arksen | |
  | 02. CargoLoc | |
  | 03. Brightlines BL150010 | |
  | 04. Maxxhaul | |
  | 05. Yitamotor | |
  | 06. Smittybilt | |
  | 07. Brightlines BL155150 | |
  | 08. EAG 2/4 | |
  | 09. Brightlines aero | |
  | 10. EAG 4 door |
Top 10 Best Jeep Roof Rack System
01. Arksen 64 inches the best-jeep-roof-rack for cargo
Product description
For camping enthusiasts, this is the best roof rack available in the market. This roof rack accommodates camping gear, luggage, and cargo bags. Meanwhile, you can buy an Arksen roof rack with or without a net. The net is highly durable, light, tangle-free, and elastic. Thus, you can quickly load and unload the luggage from the roof. Secondly, this roof rack is highly tensile and resistive. For this reason, you can use it roughly without any fear of repair or replacement. The all-new Arksen cargo rack is easy to install, as you do not require any sophisticated tools.
This product has a powdered coating finish. Thereby, it is resistant to water and extreme temperatures. In addition to this, the Arksen cargo rack includes steel wind fairing. Therefore, you do not have to worry about excessive noise even while traveling at high speed. You can install this cargo rack in a jeep, SUV, or passenger car.
Product highlights
- Overall product dimension: 64 x 39 x 6 inches
- Total supported weight: 150 pounds
- Color: Black
- U bolt spacing: 4.65 x 1.375 inches
- Wind fairing dimension: 33.5 x 7 inches
- The metal used for construction: Steel
Pros
- Highly durable
- Easy to install
- Offer proper wind fairing
- Light in weight
Cons
- Can’t be used for convertibles
02. CargoLoc 52 inches the best jeep roof rack made of aluminum
Product description
If you are looking for a lightweight and ultra-durable roof rack, then buy the CargoLoc bar set. This product is made up of genuine aluminum and weighs only 8.6 pounds. Further, you can easily mount a kayak, skis, or mountain bike on it. The CargoLoc 52 roof rack includes a clamping mechanism. Now you do not worry about slippage of cargo or camping gear from the rack.
The two-piece rack allows you to attach them at a desired place on the jeep roof. Notably, the CargoLoc distribute the weight of the luggage evenly throughout the roof. Thus, you do not have to spend frequently to repair the dents on the roof. Also, this product comes with a limited lifetime warranty. In effect of this, you can quickly secure a one-time investment. Finally, this product has a span of 46 inches from side rails. Consequently, you can install this roof rack in most vehicles.
Product highlights
- Overall product dimension: 3 x 52.5 x 5.75 inches
- The material used: Aluminum
- Product weight: 8.6 pounds
- Weight withholding capacity: 150 pounds
- Product color: silver
- Clamping mechanism: included
Pros
- Easy to install
- Ultra-light in weight
- High loading capacity
- Includes lifetime warranty
Cons
- This product is a bit costly
03. Brightlines Grand, best for Cherokee
Product description
Make sure to buy a roof rack that is made up of ultra-durable material. With that said Brightlines Grand Cherokee rack is made up of aluminum. In comparison to other metals, aluminum is lighter and highly durable. Weighing only 9.23 pounds, the Brightlines rack can accommodate a total of 150 pounds of luggage. These crossbars are easy to install and require no drilling. Thus, your vehicle will maintain its aesthetic look.
Furthermore, these bars are ¾ inches thick and manufactured as per OEM specifications. Additionally, the side rails are grooved. Resulting, you can easily carry canoes, mountain bikes, kayaks, snowboards, etc. Along with the crossbars, you will also get an instruction booklet and mounting brackets. Because of this, even first-timers can install the Brightlines Grand rack easily.
Product highlights
- Overall product dimension: 49.5 x 6.06 x 5.67 inches
- Product weight: 9.23 pounds
- Maximum supported weight: 150 pounds
- Product color: Black
- Specifically used for side rails
- Lock and key, as well as essential hardware, are included
Pros
- Supports heavy luggage weight
- Made up of 100% genuine aluminum
- Ultra-light in weight
- Easy to install
Cons
- Can’t be installed in SRT models
- Isn’t compatible with altitude models
04. Maxxhaul, made of heavy-duty steel
Product description
As per the name, the all-new Maxxhaul roof rack can easily bear heavy luggage. Thereby, you can mount camping gear, canoe, and excess baggage without any issues. Meanwhile, the Maxxhaul heavy-duty rack is made up of authentic steel and has a powder coating. Forthwith, this roof rack easily bears extreme temperature and can be used ruggedly.
Once installed, you do not have to invest frequently in repair or replacement. For the process of installation, just attach the rack to the crossbar with the help of U-bolts. This roof rack is equipped with durable rubber capping. Thus, your luggage will get extra protection. The Maxxhaul heavy-duty rack is best suited for off-road driving and mounting camping gear. Along with commendable features, you will also get around-the-clock customer service.
Product highlights
- Overall product dimension: 46 x 36 x 4-1/2 inches
- Product weight: 25 pounds
- Maximum supportive weight: 150 pounds
- The material used: steel
- Installation accessories: included
- Product color: black
Pros
- Powered coated for extra durability
- Easy to install
- Contain rubber caps for extra safety
- Made from authentic steel
Cons
- Cargo bag is not included
- This roof rack is pretty heavy
05. Yitamotor with anti-theft technology
Product description
If you are looking for a roof rack for versatile usage, then go for Yitamotor antitheft racking. This product is made from aluminum and high-grade plastic. Thus, it is light in weight and can support up to 150 pounds. Additionally, aluminum is rust resistive and can withstand extreme weather conditions. The Yitamotor roof racking can easily be mounted on a side rail. Next, this product also comes with an antitheft lock. Now, you do not have to worry about luggage safety.
Except for Trailhawk, Upland, Summit, and Overland, you can install the Yitamotor in most of the vehicles. For the installation of the product, you only require a screwdriver. Just secure the racks on the sidebars and tight the bolts with a screwdriver. With the initial purchase, you will get an installation manual, 4 keys, and an Allen wrench. Thus, you can undertake the installation process without hiring an expert.
Product highlights
- Overall product dimension: 48 x 10.2 x 4.8 inches
- The material used: aluminum and high-grade plastic
- Maximum supportive weight: 150 pounds
- Product color: black
- The product weight: 8.8 pounds
- Installation accessories: included
Pros
- Ultra-durable product
- Easy to install
- Comes with accessories and an installation guide
- Cost-effective product
Cons
- It is not ideal for SRT or altitude
- The molding could have been more durable
06. Smittybilt SRC, best for Wrangler
Product description
All in all, the Smittybilt SRC is considered the best to accommodate camping gear or kayak. Notably, this roof rack is made up of authentic steel. Resulting, you can even use it during the rainy season. For additional durability, Smittybilt SRC has a coating of powder on the outer surface. You just have to mount this racking on four corners. Besides, this roof racking can hold up to 700 pounds of luggage.
Similar to other roof racks, Smittybilt also distributes the weight evenly. Thus, it protects the roof from dents and scratches. This heavy-duty racking is the best option for off-road adventures. Moreover, you can easily remove the crossbars without any hassle. While being the best roof racking, Smittybilt also increases the overall look of the ride. After the installation of the product, your vehicle will get a more rugged look. The matte shade of this racking works well with vehicles of different color shades.
Product highlights
- Overall product dimension: 65 x 8 x 23 inches
- Total weight of the product: 97.9 pounds
- Product color: black
- Maximum weight supported: 700 pounds
- The material used for construction: steel
- Powder coating: yes
Pros
- Support heavyweight
- Easy to install
- Crossbars can be removed easily
- Highly durable
Cons
- The product is a bit heavy
- Installation is challenging and time-consuming
07. Brightlines Renegade
Product description
If you are looking for racks, especially for Renegade jeep, then go for Brightlines roofing. This product is specifically designed for Renegade jeep. Thus, you do not have to worry about any compatibility issues. Meanwhile, it will also complement your ride after the proper installation process. The Brightlines Renegade roofing has an aero wing shape. Hence, no need to worry about noise even while traveling at high speed.
You need not invest in any installation accessories. Because the primary purchase includes tools as well as the hardware required for installation. Also, the Brightlines Renegade provides high roof clearance. Forthwith you do not have to worry about any scratches or dents while riding off-road. When not in use, you can utilize the sunroof to the fullest. Last but not least, the outer coating of the roof rack is covered with ABS hard plastic. Henceforth, there is no need to fret about rusting.
Product highlights
- Overall product dimension: 48.25 x 7.4 x 4.25 inches
- Total weight of the product: 8.48 pounds
- Maximum weight supported: 150 pounds
- Color of the product: black
- The material used for rack protection: ABS hard plastic
- Hardware and installation accessories: included
Pros
- No drilling is required for installation
- Perfect for canoe, kayak, and mountain bicycles
- Easy to install
- Includes tools and installation accessories
Cons
- You can only use it for Renegade jeep
08. EAG 2/4 door cargo
Product description
The all-new EAG 2/4 Door cargo roofing is best suited for Wrangler jeeps. One of the most proficient features of this product is that no drilling is required. Hence, you do not have to compromise with the overall look of the ride. Above all, you do not have to modify the vehicle to install this roof rack. Furthermore, for proper functioning, this product comes with a wind deflector. You can easily mount this product either on a 2 or 4-door Wrangler. With the help of a sturdily build basket design, this racking supports 150 pounds of weight.
This product is made up of 16 gauge steel; hence you do not have to concern about the performance. Meanwhile, this product is also powder coated. Thus, it can easily withstand moisture and extreme weather. Finally, this product has proper roof-clearing. Consequently, you can place heavy luggage or canoe and do not have to worry about dents.
Product highlights
- The overall product dimension: 59.85 x 34.65 x 8.67 inches
- The material used for construction: steel
- Total weight supported by the roofing: 150 pounds
- The color of the product: black
- Installation accessories: included
- The total weight of the product: 79.3 pounds
Pros
- Easy to install
- No drilling or vehicle modification required
- Includes powder coating
- Supports 150 pounds of weight
Cons
- Can only be used for wranglers
- This roof rack is pretty heavy
09. Brightlines aero crossbars, best for Cherokee
Product description
The Brightlines aero crossbars are specially designed for Cherokee jeep. This roof rack works best for the Cherokee model manufactured between the years 2014 to 2019. With that said, you can eventually modify your jeep into a sport utility vehicle. Likewise, the Brightlines crossbars offer proper sunroof clearance. Now there is no chance of damage or scratches on the surface of the sunroof.
Moreover, you can install the crossbars as per the needs. Thus, it would be easier to carry a canoe, kayak, or other camping gear. Brightlines Cherokee crossbar supports 150 pounds of weight and has an aero shape. Hereby, you will get more cabin space and zero noise, even at high speed. In particular, the crossbars distribute the weight evenly. Under that circumstance, the roof won’t get dented. Front crossbars are more prominent when compared to the rear ones and have a coating of ABS plastic.
Product highlights
- Overall product dimension: 45.1 x 7.4 x 4.4 inches
- Total weight of the product: 7.93 pounds
- Total weight supported by the product: 150 pounds
- Installation accessories and hardware: included
- Color of the product: black
Pros
- Easy to install
- Ultra-light in weight
- Comes with a covering of ABS plastic
- Supports 150 pounds of weight
Cons
- Can only be used for Cherokee
10. EAG 4 door with wind deflector
Product description
The EAG roof rack with wind deflector is best for excess baggage or camping accessory. This product is made of solid steel and has a powder coating. Furthermore, it mounts perfectly on the top, and the wind deflector reduces noise. Meanwhile, improper wind management decreases the overall mileage of the vehicle. Unlike several other roof racks, EAG is a low-profile system. As a result, the rack won’t add additional height to the vehicle.
The roof rack designed by EAG compliments the Wrangler. In general, your ride will look more sturdy and stylish. This product efficiently distributes the weight evenly. Hence you can load uneven baggage without any issues. At the time of installation, no drilling or vehicle modification is required. Also, you can disassemble the roof rack with relative ease. For the proper installation process, accessories and hardware are included with the product. You will get clamps, window hinge and mounting brackets, front, center, and rear pieces.
Product highlights
- Overall product dimension: 59.85 x 34.65 x 12.6 inches
- Total weight of the product: 101.3 pounds
- Total weight supported by the product: 300 pounds
- Installation accessories and hardware: included
- Color of the product: black
- The material used for construction: steel
Pros
- Easy to install
- No drilling is required
- Comes with a powdered coating
- Made of solid steel
Cons
- The product is a bit heavy
- Can only be used for Wranglers
Things to consider before buying
In general, roof racks are the most crucial part of a jeep. You get the upper hand in managing the cabin space. Similarly, the best that helps to take camping goods with utter care. However, it is not easy to choose the best roof rack from a plethora of choices. In that case, do take advice from an expert or go through a buying guide. You will get an overview of factors that make a roof rack the best among the others.
Ease of installation
First thing first, you need to buy a roof rack that is easy to install. You can find the roof rack that does not require any drilling at the time of installation. Thus, you do not have to compromise over the aesthetic beauty of your ride. Do buy racks for which there is no need to modify the vehicle’s roofing.
The material used for construction
Roof racking needs to be ultra-durable as it has to face extreme weather conditions. Only the best jeep rack is made either from steel or aluminum. Both steel and aluminum are rust-resistant. Always buy a rack that is made up of solid tubing. Because of this, you do not have to worry while placing a heavyweight on it.
In comparison to steel, aluminum is light in weight and can support high luggage weight. Also, durable racks have an additional powder coating or covered with hard ABS plastic. Hence, you do not have to spend frequently on replacements.
Contrary to this, avoid purchasing racks that are made of plastic. In comparison to steel and aluminum, plastic gets degraded quickly. Therefore your luggage might be at risk during the time of commute.
Cost-efficiency
It is essential to buy a product that is pocket-economic. Meanwhile, do not purchase cheap racks. Primarily low-quality roof racks tend to get damaged easily. In that case, you have to spend frequently on replacements and repairs.
Additional safety features
Before you buy jeep roof rack, make sure that it has additional safety features. For instance, do look for a locking system and rubber paddings. Thereby, you get to secure the luggage without any hassle.
Product Warranty
It is wise to look for a long-term product warranty before purchasing jeep roof rack.Buy products that offer at least 1 year of warranty. Hence, you will be able to secure the initial investment.
Weight of the rack
In contrast to heavy racks, lightweight roofing has the upper hand. Mostly, lightweight racks do not cause any exertion on the roof. On the other hand, a good jeep roof rack is more comfortable to mount and disassemble.
Accessories
You do not want to spend extra money on sophisticated installation accessories and hardware. For this reason, invest in the best products that offer installation equipment with immediate purchase. Most of the roof racks provide installation guides, Allen wrenches, window hinges, etc.
The maximum weight supported
Primarily the best one can be used for different purposes. People install them to carry luggage, fragile items, canoe, kayak, mountain bikes, etc. Consequently, it is essential to know the total amount of weight that a rack can support. Do buy a roof rack that supports a minimum of 150 pounds of weight. Therefore, you do not have to worry about causing dents or scratches on the roof.
Low profile roofing
Roof racks that have high clearing cause lots of noise while traveling at high speed. Besides, these roof racks also decrease the fuel economy of the ride. Thus, always buy racks that have aero shape or are low profile.
Additional protective features
A handful of roof racks come with protective nets. Now you get the upper hand in mounting uneven luggage and camping gear without any issues. These products are best suited if you are riding through off-road terrain.
Customer support
Lastly, impeccable customer support helps to sort out any minor to major issues with racks. Initially, do check the reputation of the company. You are expected to go through the customer reviews before making a purchase. See the different modes of contact offered by the company. For example, most companies provide phone, fax, social media account, and emails.
FAQ’s
What is the maximum weight that a roof rack can bear?
Before loading luggage or other camping gear, do check the maximum weight supported by the rack. To begin with, aluminum and steel racks can support a maximum of 700 pounds of weight. It would be wise to load less weight than the maximum potential of the rack. Thus, the roof rack can easily bear the load without any issues.
Should you install a roof rack made of plastic?
In a word, the answer is no. Firstly, plastic racks can’t bear heavyweights. Second, these racks are vulnerable to extreme temperature and pressure. Therefore, you will have to invest frequently in replacements.
For how long your jeep-roof-rack might last?
To begin with, various factors play a significant role in the life span of the roof. In general frequent usage, weather condition, and rack material plays a significant role. Next, you need to load only the recommended amount of weight on a rack. Make sure to clean the rack occasionally. Hence, the product might last for about 5 to 7 years.
Would your roof get damaged due to racks?
Either you install a basket shape or crossbar racks. They do not cause any harm to the roof. Most importantly, a good jeep roof rack does not require any drilling on the roof surface. Further, roof racks offer little clearance at the bottom and distribute the weight evenly. However, you need to replace racking after a particular time. Using a damaged rack will cause severe damage to the roof of the car.
How should you carry a kayak?
You can mount a kayak either on a basket-shaped rack or crossbars. Initially, you require tying up the kayak with the help of a rope. Several racks come with a net. This feature helps you get extra security to the kayak at the time of mounting.
Why shouldn’t slack the luggage too high?
Usually, slacking the luggage too high might create a problem for overhead clearance. Thus, you may have to deal with issues while visiting drive-thru restaurants, parking garages, etc. Similarly, luggage that has too much slack can even drop off from the rack.
Should you remove racks when not in use?
All in all, mounting and dissembling a rack is a time-consuming process. Leaving a rack after use does not cause any harm to the vehicle. Thus, you can leave the racks once installed on the roof. Conversely, some roofs are installed permanently, and it is impossible to remove them. If you are planning to take off a rack, then do consult the installation guide.
Would you be able to mount extra light on a rack?
Whether you use a basket-shaped rack or crossbars, it is easy to mount lights on them. Mounting an extra pair of lights on the top of the vehicle will offer you additional illumination. Thus, you do not have to worry about a thing while riding off-road terrain at night.
Do roof racks have the upper hand over roof bags?
In comparison to roof bags, the jeep roof rack is sturdy and can easily bear heavyweights. Also, roof racks can easily withstand high winds. For this reason, it can be inferred that racks are more effective when compared to roof bags.
Can you buy any type of racks for your car?
First thing first, roof racks come in different shapes and sizes. Due to this, you need to know whether a rack will be compatible with your ride or not. You can buy a few racks that are specially made for Wranglers and jeep Cherokee. Effectively, you do not have to modify the vehicle before the rack installation.
What are the different types of roof racks?
Raised rails
These roof racks are installed on SVU’s as well as station wagons. Raised rail racks offer 2 inches of roof clearance.
Fixed points
Few vehicles have pre-installed fixed points on the roof. Specifically, these points are covered with the help of rubber caps. If you have such vehicles, then simply remove the capping and install the rack in them. In such a case, you do not even require any sophisticated tools or roof modification.
Solid rails
This roof rack is similar to Raised rails, except they do not offer any roof clearance. In effect of this, your vehicle will get a streamlined and contemporary look. These roof rails are mostly designed for sport utility vehicles.
If you do not have any point for the attachment for roof rails, then use door jamb racks. The door jamb is a cut-out in which the door is fixed. Once attached, the rail will remain intact and will support heavyweight.
Conclusion
To summarize, roof racks are one of the essential parts of a vehicle. Notably, after the installation, you get an ample amount of cabin space. Secondly, it also offers impeccable support to luggage and other camping gear. Before you buy roof racks, it is essential to go through the product reviews over the internet. This is so because there are several types of roof racks in the market.
Primarily, you need to give importance to the ease of installation and overall product makeup. The jeep roof racks are made from aluminum and steel. Additionally, these products have a powder coating. Hence, roof racks won’t get rusted and can withstand extreme weather conditions. Always buy racks that do not require initial drilling or any vehicular modification. Several manufacturers offer additional hardware and tools with immediate purchase. In effect of this, you do not have to spend extra money on tools. Before buying the roof racks for jeeps, you can even go through the FAQ section. You will get an idea concerning how to correctly use a rack. Further, the FAQ section also covers queries regarding different types of rails you can buy.
Leave a Reply