honda crv 2016 roof bars

3 min read 22-01-2025

The 2016 Honda CRV is a popular choice for its versatility and practicality. Adding roof bars significantly enhances its cargo-carrying capabilities, opening up possibilities for carrying everything from bikes and kayaks to luggage and sporting equipment. But with so many options available, choosing and installing the right roof bars for your 2016 Honda CRV can feel overwhelming. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you make an informed decision and enjoy a smooth installation.

Understanding Roof Bar Types and Compatibility

Before diving into specific brands, it's crucial to understand the different types of roof bars and their compatibility with your 2016 Honda CRV. Generally, you'll find two main types:

1. Flush Rail Roof Bars:

These are designed for vehicles with integrated roof rails—raised rails that run along the roofline. The bars clamp directly onto these existing rails, providing a secure and often aesthetically pleasing fit. The 2016 Honda CRV does not have integrated roof rails; therefore, flush rail bars are incompatible.

2. Raised Rail/Cross Bar Systems:

These systems are specifically designed for vehicles without integrated rails, like the 2016 Honda CRV. They consist of two parts:

Feet: These attach directly to the vehicle's roof using pre-existing mounting points. Finding the correct feet is paramount for a secure and safe fit. Improperly fitted feet can lead to damage to your vehicle's roof or even the bars detaching while driving.
Bars: These are the long crossbars that sit atop the feet, providing the platform for carrying your cargo. These bars typically come in various lengths and materials (aluminum being most common for its lightweight strength).

Crucially: You must choose a raised rail system explicitly designed for the 2016 Honda CRV. Using bars designed for another vehicle model will likely lead to an improper fit and potential safety hazards.

Selecting the Right Roof Bars for Your 2016 Honda CRV

Choosing the right roof bars involves considering several factors:

1. Load Capacity:

Check the maximum weight capacity of the bars. This should be higher than the combined weight of your cargo and any accessories you plan to use. Always err on the side of caution and avoid overloading.

2. Material:

Aluminum bars are generally preferred for their lightweight yet robust nature. Steel bars are more durable but significantly heavier.

3. Locking Mechanism:

Security is a key consideration. Look for bars with integrated locking mechanisms to deter theft.

4. Aerodynamics:

Aerodynamically designed bars minimize wind noise and fuel consumption, particularly crucial on longer journeys.

5. Ease of Installation:

While most systems are relatively straightforward to install, check for user-friendly features and detailed instructions. Some systems may require additional tools.

Installing Your Honda CRV 2016 Roof Bars

The specific installation process will vary depending on the brand and model of roof bars you choose. However, general steps typically include:

Carefully read the manufacturer's instructions: These are crucial for a safe and successful installation.
Locate the factory-installed mounting points: These are usually hidden under plastic covers on your roof.
Attach the feet to the mounting points: This will typically involve tightening bolts or other securing mechanisms.
Mount the crossbars: These usually slide into place on top of the feet and are then secured.
Test the installation: Ensure the bars are securely attached and that there's no movement before loading any cargo.

Always follow the manufacturer's instructions meticulously.

Conclusion

Choosing and installing roof bars on your 2016 Honda CRV significantly enhances its practicality. By understanding the different types of bars available, carefully selecting a compatible system, and following the installation instructions diligently, you can confidently and safely enjoy the added cargo space and versatility your CRV now offers. Remember to always prioritize safety and ensure you're within the weight limits specified by the manufacturer.