I didn't get a roof rack initially, but I think I want one because I prefer the look and I don't want to put a christmas tree inside the car.

I can imagine the rack increasing wind noise a bit and decreasing mpg a bit due to increased friction, but I imagine these effects are small. Any other reasons not to get one?

 

Just installed my roof rack. one downside is that the crossbars are not fully adjustable. you can only move it a few inches forward and backward.

 

The looks and getting the Christmas tree home were the EXACT reasons I got the roof rack when I bought mine! I don't regret it all!

 

The downsides to the Acura rack are that it's expensive, it's not fully adjustable, and it's not as rugged as many racks. For my needs, I would have to buy the Acura rack and then mount some Yakima crossbars on it (which would allow full adjustability). That combination is a lot of $$.

One thing I like about the optional MDX rack for 07 is that you can buy the siderails and crossbars separately. With the RDX you have to buy the whole kit, whether you need the crossbars or not.

You may notice some noise and some MPG penalty, but in my experience, SUV-shaped vehicles already have enough wind noise and drag that the rack is a minor effect.

When not hauling cargo, you could remove the crossbars to ease the noise/drag. I think RDX would look pretty cool with only the rack siderails. I take the crossbars off my wagon when not needed (they're on full time during ski season though).

 

By the way, bring a blanket or something to put on the roof under the tree. I had a hard time getting fir needles and sap off my roof after bringing home a tree one year! Would help avoid scratches too.

 

My G/F's tech RDX has a roof rack and the wind noise is noticable, but not annoying.

 

Got one on ebay for $170 + $30 delivery.

 

OEM rack?

 

I had mine installed about 2 weeks after getting my car. I do not notice any addidtional noise. I did find the limitation in adjusting the cross bars to be annoying

 

Genuine OEM. Go to Ebay Motors and search for Acura RDX. And don't out bid me on anything!

 

Any vehicle will be a bit more reactive to severe crosswinds and resultant instability with a roofrack.

 

What is that, about the 3rd or 4th accessory you bought on eBay?!?! Sounds like you're having a lot of fun! That is a great price for the rack, by the way.

 

... and I admit I haven't tried adjusting them yet (need to get a Star wrench of the correct size) but
1) Acura installer said you could slide the crossbars across the entire span of the siderails
2) I don't see any blockages in the inner groove in which the crossbars slide in the siderails (other than the front and rear of the rail).
What prevents you from sliding the cross bars along the entire span of the siderails?
A limited span would be disappointing.

GreezWop - Great deal on the OEM racks! Let us know how the installation goes.

 

C_Hunter you have BUSTED ME!!!! I've only bought three things though, roof rack, Applique, and Mud Guards! All on Ebay and all for a total of $315. If I went to the dealer for the same it would have cost me about $700. I also did a retro fit on my Sirius receiver. I am in HOG HEAVEN! Next month....Running Boards and Side Moldings! VVVVVVVVVVVVRRRRRRRRRRROOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMMM!!!!!!!!! !

 

https://acurazine.com/forums/showthread.php?t=583

 

Thanks c_hunter - That explains the limited travel of the cross bars. I need to read further back in the posts.

 

Yes ...its expensive ....about $700.00 CDN installled

 

The only downside of my roof rack is that water gets trapped between the gasket around the base of the rack and the car roof when I am washing the car. Then when I start driving the water leaks out and creates drip marks down the side of the car. Not a big deal, but it is annoying to always have the drip marks just after washing the car.

Maybe someone has a solution?

 

Use a leaf blower as part of your drying, or wash the car, drive the car, then dry the car.

 

Has anyone installed the roof rack on your own? If yes, how difficult was it?

 

Piece of cake. Use a putty knife to remove the roof molding, it comes right out. Took me all of an hour to do, and I'm no Greezmonkey!

 

Well, I got the roof rack installed yesterday. Quite pleased. I do think it looks a little odd from the back (makes the car look even taller and "pointier"), but I like the profile a lot more. Plus the xmas tree crud will remain on the outside this weekend.

 

After having one for 3 weeks, the disadvantage I've notice is it's a bit harder to wash and dry (and presumably wax) your roof.