Looking for the Best Roof Bars for BMW 3 Series!

EV Models BMW
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Seeking Advice on Roof Bars for BMW 3 Series

I’ve been considering adding roof bars to my BMW 3 Series to help with traveling, especially for vacations and road trips. I’m looking for some advice on the best options available for purchasing.

What to Consider When Choosing Roof Bars

  • Compatibility: Not all roof bars fit every model or year, so I want to ensure that whatever I choose is compatible with my specific 3 Series.
  • Load Capacity: I tend to need additional storage for luggage and sports equipment, so understanding the weight limit is crucial.
  • Aerodynamics: I’m curious about how the roof bars would affect my car’s fuel efficiency and road noise.
  • Ease of Installation: If anyone has tips on how easy they are to install, that would be super helpful.

Questions for the Community

  • What brands do you recommend for quality and durability?
  • Any specific models you’ve found work really well?
  • Are there any installation tips or tricks to make the process smoother?

I appreciate any insights you can share, whether it’s product comparisons, personal experiences, or where to find the best deals. Thanks in advance for your help! Looking forward to your responses!

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I’m currently using Thule Cross Road bars on my 2018 BMW 3 Series and they fit perfectly. Highly recommend them for their ease of installation!

3

That’s great to hear! I was looking at the Thule WingBar as well—any thoughts on those?

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If you’re considering Thule, make sure to check the specific model year’s compatibility. Some older versions might need unique adapter kits.

5

Can you clarify which specific model year you have, Rebecca? The BMW 3 Series has had a few design changes that affect fitting.

6

For a sporty look, the Rhino-Rack Vortex bars are quite popular. They also offer a great load capacity and are easy to install.

7

I’ve heard those are good! Do they require any drilling for installation?

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No drilling required! The Vortex bars clamp onto existing points. I’ve installed them on my 2019 model; it took about 30 minutes.

9

That sounds easy! However, the Vortex looks bulky on some variants. Make sure to check the compatibility for your specific model.

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Thanks for that info! Are there any load limits I should be aware of?

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The load limit for Vortex bars is around 165 lbs, so it’s plenty for most equipment. Just ensure you distribute weight evenly.

12

I’m more of a Yakima fan myself. The JetStream bars are sleek and aerodynamic if that’s what you’re going for.

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I’ve seen the Yakima JetStream, but I heard they can be a bit pricier than others. Worth the investment?

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They’re definitely more expensive, but they often come with better features and reduced wind noise. Just weigh what you need!

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15

Honestly, I think any roof bar will work as long as you don’t mind a little wind noise. Just grab whichever fits your budget!

16

Don’t forget about safety! Making sure the roof bars are secured properly is key—I’ve seen a few accidents due to loose bars.

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I’m also looking for roof bars for my BMW 3 Series! I’ve heard that aerodynamic bars are great for reducing wind noise. Anyone tried them?

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I’ve used aerodynamic bars on my 3 Series, and they really do make a difference in fuel efficiency and noise! Such a worthwhile investment.

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I prefer square bars for their sturdiness, especially for heavy cargo. They can carry more weight, but they are definitely noisier and might affect mpg.

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That’s true! I had square bars once, and I felt like I was driving a truck. But hey, they work like a charm for my bikes!

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