Car Fix DIY Videos

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Roof racks on your Toyota offer a convenient and safe way to transport baggage, sports equipment or other loads. Roof racks also provide a secure base for a variety of Toyota rooftop carrying attachments, including the Toyota bicycle holder.

You can find roof racks to fit your car at a Toyota retailer. They are simple to install yourself.

The first step is to check the installation manual to identify the four rack installation points. These are spaced relative to the centre of the b-pillar. On this particular vehicle the forward rack should be 35 centimetres in front and the rear rack 45 centimetres behind.

Once you have identified the four points, clean the area just inside the doorframe with a suitable surface-cleaning product. Then apply the protective film at each of the four locations, peeling off the backing before sticking the film under the overhang of the doorframe.

Separate the four rubber end-pads and install them onto the ends of the racks, locating them according to indications marked on the underside of the racks and on the pads. Push the pad into the end of the rack and pull up on the fixation pin to lock it into place.

Next, clean the front rack surface and apply the three wind-noise spoilers onto the underside of the front rack, spacing them as indicated in the installation manual. Peel the backing off the spoilers and stick them onto the correct positions.
You are now ready to install the racks. Line up each end with the protective films you have already applied to the doorframes, inserting the clamp into the gap. Use the included torque key to half-tighten all four clamps. Then tighten them fully until you clear the key click.

Next, after applying some liquid soap to reduce friction, install the rubber T-slot cover on each rack by sliding it in from the end towards the centre. Trim the piece to the length of the roof racks.

Finally, install the covers over each of the four clamps, using the supplied key. Check the stability of the racks in all directions to ensure they are firmly fixed.

Be sure to store the installation manual and the torque key in the glove compartment so you can easily remove and reinstall the roof racks whenever you want.

Consult the installation manual for the roof load capacity of your vehicle. For this vehicle the total weight – including roof racks, attachments and baggage- should not exceed 75 kilogrammes. Distribute the load evenly with the centre of gravity as low as possible, making sure it doesn’t obstruct the opening of the boot. Ensure that the load cannot move.

The load may change the behaviour of the vehicle on the road. Never drive faster than 120 kilometres per hour with a load on the roof. And make sure there is sufficient clearance when entering a parking garage.

After driving 100 km with a load, tighten all nuts and straps and ensure that the load is still securely fastened in position. Do this check every 1,000 km.

Remove the roof racks from the vehicle before entering a carwash, or when it is not in use to reduce fuel consumption and wind noise. A storage bag for your roof racks can be purchased at your Toyota retailer.

If you have any difficulty installing your roof racks, visit a Toyota retailer. There, you will receive expert assistance and the best possible care for your Toyota – ensuring that your driving experience remains safe and pleasurable.