Can I add roof racks to my Tesla Model 3?

 If you are a Tesla Model 3 owner and you want to add some extra storage space to your car, you might be wondering if you can install roof racks on your vehicle. Roof racks are a popular accessory for many drivers who need to carry bikes, kayaks, skis, or other bulky items that don't fit in the trunk or the frunk. However, not all cars are compatible with roof racks, and some may require special modifications or adapters to make them work.

In this blog post, we will answer the question: can I add roof racks to my Tesla Model 3? We will also discuss the pros and cons of roof racks, the best options available for Tesla Model 3 owners, and some tips on how to install and use them safely and efficiently.

Can I add roof racks to my Tesla Model 3?

The short answer is yes, you can add roof racks to your Tesla Model 3. However, there are some important things to consider before you do so.

First of all, you need to make sure that your roof racks are compatible with your car. Tesla Model 3 has a glass roof that does not have any built-in attachment points for roof racks. Therefore, you need to use roof racks that have suction cups or clamps that can attach to the glass without damaging it. You also need to make sure that the roof racks are designed for electric vehicles, as some conventional roof racks may interfere with the sensors or cameras that are part of the Tesla Autopilot system.

Secondly, you need to be aware of the impact of roof racks on your car's performance and efficiency. Roof racks increase the aerodynamic drag and weight of your car, which means that they will reduce your range and speed. According to Tesla, adding roof racks to your Model 3 can reduce your range by up to 10%, depending on the load and speed. You may also notice a decrease in acceleration and handling, as well as an increase in wind noise and vibration.

Thirdly, you need to follow the instructions and recommendations from Tesla and the roof rack manufacturer when installing and using roof racks. You should not exceed the maximum load capacity of your roof racks or your car, which is 150 lbs (68 kg) for both. You should also secure your cargo properly and check it regularly for any signs of loosening or shifting. You should avoid driving at high speeds or in strong winds with roof racks, as they may affect your stability and safety. You should also remove your roof racks when not in use, as they will affect your car's appearance and efficiency.

What are the best roof racks for Tesla Model 3?

There are several options available for Tesla Model 3 owners who want to add roof racks to their car. Some of the most popular ones are:

- Tesla Roof Rack: This is the official roof rack from Tesla, which is designed specifically for Model 3. It has a sleek and aerodynamic design that minimizes drag and noise. It has adjustable crossbars that can accommodate different types of cargo carriers. It has rubber-coated clamps that attach securely to the glass roof without scratching it. It has a load capacity of 150 lbs (68 kg) and a warranty of 4 years or 50,000 miles (80,000 km). It costs $450 and can be ordered from the Tesla online shop or at a Tesla service center.

- SeaSucker Monkey Bars: This is a universal roof rack that uses suction cups to attach to any smooth surface, including glass roofs. It has four large vacuum cups that create a strong seal with the glass and can be easily installed and removed in minutes. It has two aluminum crossbars that can be adjusted in length and width to fit different cars and cargo carriers. It has a load capacity of 150 lbs (68 kg) and a warranty of 1 year. It costs $400 and can be ordered from the SeaSucker website or from various online retailers.

- Thule WingBar Evo: This is a premium roof rack that uses clamps to attach to the edge of the glass roof. It has two aerodynamic crossbars that reduce drag and noise by up to 55%. It has integrated T-tracks that allow you to mount various accessories such as bike carriers, ski carriers, or cargo boxes. It has a load capacity of 165 lbs (75 kg) and a warranty of lifetime. It costs $530 and requires an additional adapter kit ($120) to fit the Tesla Model 3. It can be ordered from the Thule website or from authorized dealers.