Anyone tried roof bars for their Nissan Leaf?

Seeking Advice on Roof Bars for Nissan Leaf

I recently got a Nissan Leaf and I’m thinking about adding some roof bars for extra cargo space, but I want to know more before I make a purchase. I’ve read that not all roof racks are compatible, and I’d love to hear your experiences.

Questions to Consider:

  • What brands have you found work best? Are there specific models of roof bars that fit well without causing issues?
  • Impact on Range: I’ve read mixed reviews about how roof bars can affect the range of the Leaf. Has anyone noticed a significant drop in efficiency?
  • Installation: How easy is it to install them? Do you need any special tools or help, or can it be done solo?
  • Functionality: Once installed, do they affect things like handling or noise while driving?

Personal Experiences

If you’ve already equipped your Leaf with roof bars, I’d love to hear your stories. Did you face any unexpected challenges? Any tips on usage, like how heavy of a load is okay without compromising performance?

Recommendations?

Let’s make a list of do’s and don’ts based on our experiences.

Thanks in advance for your help! Looking forward to learning from your insights.

I’ve been using Thule roof bars for my Nissan Leaf and they’ve been great! Super sturdy and easy to install. Highly recommend them if you’re planning on carrying bikes or other gear.

I had similar luck with the Yakima bars! They fit well and have excellent compatibility with most accessories.

Are there any roof bars that don’t require drilling into the car? I’d hate to damage my Leaf.

Most roof bars for the Leaf are designed to be clamp-on, so no drilling necessary! Just ensure you check the specifications.

I’ve also heard that some aluminum models are lighter. Any specific recommendations? I’m looking for a balance between weight and strength.

The Rhino-Rack bars might be worth checking out. They’re lightweight and seem to hold up well under stress.

Compatibility is key. I found that some bars that fit other vehicles can be tricky with the Leaf’s unique design. Always double-check the compatibility list.

Great advice! I’m also curious about the design choices. Do most bars affect aerodynamics?

It really depends on the model. Some roof bars are quite aerodynamic and create minimal drag, while others can be quite noisy at higher speeds. Just something to consider.

3 Likes

I personally enjoy the sleek look of the square bars. They look fun and rugged! Anyone else feel the same?

5 Likes

I totally agree! There’s just something about their aesthetic that feels more adventurous!

Just make sure whatever you choose doesn’t compromise any safety features like blind spot monitors. The last thing you want is a distraction while driving!

Haha, right? And also be careful not to overload your roof bars. They do have weight limits!

Those limits can sneak up on you! What have been your experiences loading things on these bars? Any funny moments?

I once thought I could fit a full kayak up there. Spoiler: I couldn’t. It was a memorable sight!

Haha! That sounds like an adventure! I also wish I had a camera when I struggled to mount my bike. Took me forever!

2 Likes

Remember, practice makes perfect! Just make sure you’re always securing your load properly, or you’ll have a roof bar horror story of your own.

I’ve installed roof bars on my Nissan Leaf and it was quite straightforward. You’ll need a basic toolset including a ratchet, and the bars should come with instructions. Make sure to measure first to avoid any issues later!

Thanks for the tips! Any specific brands you recommend for roof bars? I’m looking for something sturdy.