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How To Install Roof Racks on Jeep Grand Cherokee?
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When you're going on a long trip or a pleasant journey, especially with your family, you usually take a lot of things with you. Whether your Jeep Grand Cherokee is a compact car or a large SUV, you may still need extra space for equipment such as skis, surfboards, or kayaks.
A Jeep Grand Cherokee roof rack is a solution, allowing you to mount additional stuff on your vehicle's roof.
After you've afforded roof racks, you may be wondering. How to install them on Jeep Grand Cherokee?
Don't worry; simply read our article, in which we will assist you with the roof rack installation procedure.
What Types Of Roof Racks Can You Install On Jeep Grand Cherokee?
Roof racks are a unique addition that increases your Grand Cherokee's storage capacity for various things and items like sports equipment, luggage, and outdoor gear.
Roof racks are available in several variations and types, created for individual needs and preferences:
Crossbar Roof Racks are the most common type of roof rack. Their construction involves horizontal bars that encompass the width of the Grand Cherokee's roof. They serve as a base for attaching different accessories, for example, cargo, bike or ski racks, kayak carriers, etc.
Crossbar roof racks can be mounted on a Jeep Grand Cherokee model that has raised factory-installed side rails or a bare roof with special mounting systems.
Raised Side Rail Roof Racks. This type of roof rack features rails installed from the factory that reaches from the front to the rear of the Jeep's roof.
Such rails have mounting places for crossbars and accessory attachments. Raised side rail roof racks make your Jeep Grand Cherokee look more sleek and appealing while at the same time giving you enough space for your things.
Flush-Mount Side Rail Roof Racks, as well as raised side rail roof racks, have factory-installed rails.
On the other hand, the rails were created to be flush with the Jeep Grand Cherokee’s roof, resulting in a smoother aerodynamic profile. These roof racks have a clean look and can accommodate a variety of accessories.
Roof Baskets and Cargo Trays. Such variations of roof racks feature an open structure with mesh or bars. Jeep Grand Cherokee can carry large items like oversized luggage, camping equipment, or fridges.
All these things can be reliably secured to crossbars to fix them tightly while at the same time providing you with flexibility while driving.
Cargo Boxes are closed places for storage that can be mounted onto Jeep Grand Cherokee crossbars. Cargo boxes can withstand different weather conditions while at the same time providing enough space for equipment, skis, etc.
Cargo boxes have various styles and sizes, so you can choose the one you prefer.
Bike Racks attach to crossbars, enabling bicycles to be transported safely and securely on Jeep Grand Cherokee to your destination. Roof-mounted, fork-mounted, and frame-mounted bike racks are available to accommodate various bike formats and personal tastes.
Bare Roof Mount Racks are a good solution for cars that do not have built-in side rails or roof tracks.
Such racks involve a set of mounting feet or clips that attach the Jeep Grand Cherokee's door frames. Then crossbars are secured to the mounting feet, which makes the whole construction solid and stable for carrying accessories.
Kayak and Canoe Carriers. These racks are created to reliably secure kayaks or canoes on the roof for further transportation. Usually, such racks have padded cradles and adjustable arms to prevent kayaks and canoes from shaking while on the move.
Ski and Snowboard Racks. This type of rack is characterized by the availability of clamps, which are therefore mounted to the crossbars holding snowboards or skis in place. The availability of different sizes allows one to choose the roof rack according to individual skis or snowboards.
How To Install A Roof Rack on Jeep Grand Cherokee?
Before installing a roof rack on your Jeep Grand Cherokee, you must prepare some tools and follow certain steps to ensure the roof rack's attachment is stable.
The guide below will assist you during the installation process. Items needed:
- Roof rack kit (including crossbars and mounting hardware);
- Grand Cherokee's owner's manual;
- Screwdrivers or wrenches (optional, as there may be no need);
- Ruler or measuring tape;
- Towel or soft cloth (to protect the Jeep's roof).
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Installation Steps:
1. Thoroughly Read the Instructions
In the beginning, carefully read the roof rack manufacturer's enclosed installation manual. Jeep Grand Cherokee models and roof rack types can significantly vary due to the individual steps and requirements of their installations.
2. Prepare the Grand Cherokee
Park your Jeep Grand Cherokee on an even surface. Make sure that all the doors and windows are closed. If your car already has roof or side rails, check if they need to be removed or adjusted according to the manual.
3. Measure and Position Distance
Use tape or a ruler to measure and mark the required distance between the front and rear crossbars, according to the manual. Place crossbars on the roof of your Jeep Grand Cherokee as the instructions mention.
4. Attach Mounting Feet
If you've selected roof racks with mounting feet, attach them to the crossbars as per the instructions provided. They need to be firmly secured and not overtightened.
5. Position Crossbars
Place crossbars on the mounting feet. If needed, align and position them symmetrically on both sides of the Jeep Grand Cherokee's roof.
6. Adjust and Secure
Adjust the crossbars to the required spacing and alignment, as the manual says. If you've afforded a roof rack with adjustable feet, check that they are aligned correctly with the roof of your Jeep Grand Cherokee.
7. Tighten Bolts
Tighten the bolts or screws which hold the crossbars to the mounting feet with care. Avoid overtightening to prevent damaging the roof or rack elements.
8. Check Clearance
Verify for proper clearance between the crossbars and the roof of the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Check that there is enough space for the vehicle's doors to open and close freely.
9. Test Stability
Shake the crossbars delicately to know they are attached as they should. Double-check the fit and tighten any bolts or screws that feel loose.
10. Attach Accessories
Attach cargo boxes, skis, surfboards, etc., to the newly installed roof rack. Read the manual if needed.
11. Run a Final Check
Examine all attachment points, bolts, and screws to be sure they are secure and correctly tightened.
12. Protect the Roof
Use a towel or a soft cloth to put it under the roof rack's mounting points and prevent the appearance of any marks or scratches in the future.
Important note! If you're facing issues with the roof rack mounting procedure, it's better to entrust this job to a seasoned person who knows how to do it properly.
Wrapping Up
When choosing a roof rack for Jeep Grand Cherokee, consider your car's body, the type and weight of the luggage you intend to transport, and your personal needs and preferences.
Follow the appropriate procedure for installing the roof rack on your car or let this task to professionals to ensure the safety of your belongings while driving.
Nick Marchenko, PhD
Industrial Engineer & Automotive Content Specialist
Nick writes in-depth guides on car clubs, engine specs, vehicle ownership, and modifications, combining engineering knowledge with automotive passion.
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