Styling Roof bars
- Thread starter grgiorgos
- Start date
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Styling Roof bars
If they are the genuine Fiat ones then NO they are not made by Thule. I did have Thule roof bars but had to return them to Thule as their ribbed rubber pads marked/eroded the paint on my roof rails.
The Fiat bars have full contact large area rubber pads. They are also cheaper.
The Fiat bars have full contact large area rubber pads. They are also cheaper.
The "T" slots seems to be a "standard" type connectivity/accessory mounting mechanism. Makes sense for all.
I've not seen lock options for securing the plastic covers. Even if locked they could probably easily be ripped off.
A better method would be to replace the standard bolts with secure types that require the appropriate tool. Simpler and cheaper.
A better method would be to replace the standard bolts with secure types that require the appropriate tool. Simpler and cheaper.
Nello
Established member
The OE Fiat ones come with a 'star 'type key to lock the bars on through the plastic covers. One of ours appeared to be a little brittle when I first installed and a small piece of the plastic cover snapped off however with no effect to the working of the bars. They do generate a significant amount of wind noise though over 40mph. These are the same ones I have -
Most/all roof bar manufacturers suggest they are removed when not in use. Fitting bars on you own always runs a small risk of accidental roof damage. If you are an occasional bar user and the bars are noisy then removal ticks two boxes. Manufacturer's recommendation and your noiseless driving.
Nello
Established member
As giorgos says the OE ones are a doddle to fit - even on your own. TBH as vain as it sounds I bought our set as they were going v.cheap and just to make the car look a little more 'off-road'ish rather than for any initial load requirement. The 500X Cross Plus having the roof-line side bars does not look the part as much as our old Sedici did with its longitudinal elevated bars.
