Aluminium or Steel for a Car Roof Rack

Aluminium Roof Racks vs. Steel Roof Racks: Some Comparative Analysis

Choosing the right car roof rack for your vehicle is essential for carrying additional cargo and gear. Two common options are aluminium roof racks and steel roof racks.

Many of the differences between various roof rack materials are less relevant today that they were in the past. The weight limit of the car is the determining factor when it comes to the maximum load you can carry on the roof. A stronger roof rack will not help if your car has already reached its weight limit. However, a lighter roof rack with a strong design may allow a vehicle to carry a little more weight.

Aluminium Roof Racks

Advantages of Aluminium Roof Racks

Lightweight: Aluminium is significantly lighter than steel, making aluminium roof racks an attractive option for vehicles with weight limitations. This weight reduction can also contribute to improved fuel efficiency.

Corrosion Resistance: Aluminium naturally forms a protective oxide layer, providing excellent resistance to corrosion. This is particularly beneficial for roof racks exposed to outdoor elements. Unfortunately, aluminium may still corrode in salty beach conditions.

Aesthetics: Aluminium roof racks often have a sleek and modern appearance, complementing the vehicle’s overall design.

Ease of Installation: Due to their lighter weight, aluminium roof racks are generally easier to install and handle during the setup process.

Less Impact on Vehicle Suspension: The reduced weight of aluminium roof racks has a minimal impact on the vehicle’s suspension and handling.

Considerations

Strength: While aluminium is strong, it may not be as sturdy as steel. Nonetheless a well-designed roof rack should be strong enough for the vehicle to carry its maximum load.

Cost: Aluminium roof racks tend to be more expensive than steel roof racks due to the material’s advantages and manufacturing processes.

Steel Car Roof Racks

Advantages of Steel Car Roof Racks

Durability: Steel roof racks are known for their robustness and high weight-bearing capacity, making them suitable for carrying heavier loads.

Strength: Steel is inherently stronger than aluminium, which allows steel roof racks to handle more challenging conditions and heavier cargo.

Cost: Steel roof racks are generally more budget-friendly than aluminium options, making them a preferred choice for those on a tighter budget.

Considerations

Weight: Steel roof racks are significantly heavier than aluminium roof racks, potentially affecting the vehicle’s fuel efficiency and suspension, even when there is nothing being carried.

Corrosion: Older steel roof racks were susceptible to rust and corrosion. Newer powder-coated steel roof racks rarely suffer from corrosion. They often last longer than the vehicle.

Aluminium Roof Rack Specialist

Tracklander roof racks are specifically designed for each make and model of vehicle. By keeping the roof rack as lightweight as possible we allow the vehicle to carry more load. With a roof rack design that is streamlined, robust, corrosion-resistant, and more than strong enough to carry a full load, we ensure that each of our roof racks is the optimal solution for each type of vehicle.