How To Install the Tesla Model 3 Roof Rack Crossbars

An ad-free, no fluff installation guide for the Tesla Model 3 Roof Rack Crossbars.
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[@rackattack]

🚗 Fit Your Vehicle: www.rackattack.com/wizard/

[@bree_zee]

Thank you SO MUCH. I’ve been staring at my roof rack in the garage for four months now - just waiting for a guy in my family to come help me install it. I finally 54321 (thanks Mel Robinson) decided to do it myself today! Your instructions were perfect and easy to understand. I did it myself quickly and easily!! Thank you so much!

[@anotterspov]

Big thank you! The hint for lifting the rubber gasket was perfect (I used a toothpick, that also worked well)!

[@derkaderkamohamadallaackbarnut]

Thanks mate. I appreciate it. I ordered mine yesterday and wanted to check what to expect. Perfect video. Will be checking your store.

[@nimeshr123]

Thank you! Great simple video.. really helped me in installing this... including nuances like front wing nuts are harder to tighten. Also - really found your links helpful as I'm now shopping for what fits with this rack system. Thank you!

[@rogerNOmore]

Good job, it's rare to find good informative video on youtube!

[@taylordelehanty8008]

Can confirm that this video is still helpful after a year from when it was uploaded. Thank you!

[@bkeithmontgomery]

Thank You! That really helped as I’m putting my rack system on today!!!

[@hughoreilly8787]

Very clear and helpful instructions. Thanks for posting.

[@BenswingRich]

Very nice, clear instructional video. Thank you for making it!

[@frrancisco]

It is definitely NOT 5 nm for tightening the bolts. I got up to 3 and i heard crackling of the glass. DO NOT tighten the bolts past 3 nm. The manual now says 2.5-3.5.

[@gmr7494]

Lol same here. It was super unsettling when I heard the crackling

[@petesplaneta9340]

Same here had to replace the whole roof glass

[@frrancisco]

@@petesplaneta9340 seek reparations from rack outfitters. Jk.

[@shind9496]

@@petesplaneta9340 😱

[@petesplaneta9340]

Actually time has passed and I have found out that the cause of my issue was that the metal bracket underneath the glass that the roof rack hooks joined onto was not properly attached during manufacture. This also caused the glass roof to not sit properly. Now Tesla has resolved without question and the rack works fine.

[@danger_pig]

Excellent video; thanks man!

[@boxsterviper]

thank you. that was helpful! subbed!

[@mifranz7477]

Great Video! Thanks!

[@james_en]

This is the best instructional video of anything I’ve ever watched. Thanks.

[@rackattack]

Thanks! We appreciate the encouraging feedback!

[@MrRichardmeredith]

Thanks for the help 👍

[@lorefi4266]

Thank you from Italy Florence have used this video very accurate, ciao!

[@rackattack]

Grazie gentilmente! (Sorry Google translate hehe hope it says, Thank you kindly.)

[@Sam0LCFC0]

Great vid!

[@LanceMace]

Great video, my rack comes in today from Tesla and now I feel confident about the installation. Can you suggest a cargo carrier that you think is best for the 3? The Thule boxes connect the easiest it appears, but you mentioned the Tesla rack is manufactured by Yakima so is there a better box?

[@jamesibelle2908]

Thank you, so helpful!

[@rackattack]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Kalibrasr]

Simply excellent. Great job.

[@rackattack]

Thank you very much!

[@cyprianskiba8768]

Great video and information concerning the glass

[@rackattack]

Glad it was helpful!

[@bth1994]

Outstanding video. Very concise, yet thorough instructions. Well done.

[@christianroen3690]

Thx!

[@享受音樂的BBoy小光頭]

Thank you so much!

[@rackattack]

You're welcome!

[@kinetocore]

Super cool of you to make this video, especially since you don’t actually sell this product. QUESTION: Can you please recommend some affordable torque wrench/driver tools like the one you used? I’m having trouble finding wrenches that go as low as 5Nm... thanks!

[@jasondx1]

Dudes....thank you!

[@JasonSpencer88]

Thank you.

[@zPianodude]

Fantastic video!

[@rackattack]

Thank you very much!

[@CarlosSilva-ux6rd]

Great video! Just used it to flawlessly install my roof rack just now and you made it really easy! Just some constructive criticism, the manual says 2.5-3.5 Nm of tightening. I think 5-6 would be too much. Thanks again!

[@SteveFrame_devonuto]

Lucky he didn't crack the glass. Mine made a lot of noises even before it got to 3nm.

[@djbro1989]

thank you ,help me out a lot

[@rackattack]

Glad to hear it helped!

[@stevenguyen292]

Can you mount the cargo box to this rack system? Do you have a link for Tesla Model S 2020 glass roof? Thanks

[@charmcityinc]

Great Video!

[@rackattack]

Thanks!

[@buffalobob]

Please tell us what is the exact part number of the pictured rack system. When I go to the Yakima website it shows a "naked roof" rack system with a hook that goes under the window frame. Doesn't look like the one featured in this video. Thanks.

[@a1gnarlydude]

Very intuitive design by Tesla! Great instructional video! Many thanks for the extra tip with the plastic pry tool to gently lift rubber.

[@robblack6115]

Well done. Can the keys be used to unlock and remove the bars or are they just to lock the nut in place. Also, that Tesla 3 is so smooth everywhere, where can you anchor straps on the car to carry a canoe?

[@hansongrant4961]

Do not tighten to 5 to 6 Nm! The manual says 2.5 to 3.5!

[@PredatorUnit]

i believe this is an original accessory (OEM) i'm in Mexico and due to the dollar conversion the original bars are way too expensive and need to go get them to a PO BOX at the USA. Are there any cheaper non-original Tesla bars that you can recommend? It is for a Model 3 2024. Thanks!

[@danstah1]

What size hex driver does this use?

[@GeoffBarnesPlus]

My manual says to tighten to 2.5-3.5nm.

[@danger_pig]

Is it normal to hear what sounds like glass cracking!?

[@martagora7718]

Fast, Easy Set Up

[@rackattack]

We're glad you like it!

[@steveross1535]

I did the install myself but honestly, if I had to do it over again, I would pay Tesla to do it (I hear it's ~US$100). I spent several hours working on it, to make sure everything was exactly right, starting with applying the stickers without bubbles. Time is money. And I read in other online postings that the rubber feet should not be touching the glass at all (although they might very close). One of my 4 feet was indeed barely touching. I was not comfortable with this (chance of cracking glass) so I created my own spacer from a ~2mm thick piece of dense foam rubber, placing this between the 3M stickers and the black rubber foot of the rack. I believe the reason I had one foot touching the glass is because the glass on my 2018 model 3 is not completely even and sticks up a bit in one corner. My car is out of warranty so I don't expect I could get Tesla to fix that. But I suppose if I had paid them to install the rack, then they would have been responsible for making sure my glass doesn't crack.

[@rackattack]

Hello. Thank you for sharing.

[@74tazar]

Thanks for the video - well done! Installed mine today but I had a question - is it normal that the front bar is lower than the rear? I would have expected both to be aligned but with I put a level, you can clearly see the front one is lower... just wanted to make sure all is good.

[@rackattack]

The front towers are taller than the rear to help compensate but the front will still be lower due to the about of downward slope at the front of the vehicle. This does not adversely affect the carrying ability of the system for approved applications.

[@74tazar]

@@rackattack Thanks for confirming, much appreciated

[@evbase-official]

Nice video .can we help u to create a new experience video of Tesla accessories for ur followers ？

[@Dvipe19]

I hand tightened all of them, no wiggle at all.

[@rackattack]

Nice work! Hope those bars, carry your gear to many majestic places.

[@kathymashburn]

Have you run a Tesla 3 through a car wash with the roof rack installed or is that not advisable? Thank you!

[@rackattack]

The instructions will state no car washes due to the wide range of car wash types, such as spinning brush type. A touch-free type spray wash will have no impact on the roof rack.

[@ZaeSao]

Hello, I got my model 3 roof rack but I failed to install the sticker, do you think is there a problem is install without the sticker? Thanks a lot

[@rackattack]

Hi, no it’s not a problem, as a matter of fact most other rack system that rest on the roof like this with rubber bases don’t use the protective film. Just remove the rack occasionally to wash and wax the surface.

[@ZaeSao]

@@rackattack thanks! And thanks for the video!

[@rwg2626]

Why is the spacing so close, that’s madness

[@bkeithmontgomery]

What single bike carrier do you recommend for it?

[@rackattack]

The Yakima HighSpeed is a popular choice. kzbin.info/www/bejne/rIOadIVtjMeei9E www.rackoutfitters.com/yakima-highspeed-fork-mount-bicycle-carrier/

[@BinhLe004]

Just installed mine. Nice rack but it really annoys me that there so little threading on the front bar. I makes me a bit nervous because it's barely in the nut.

[@rackattack]

Generally the threads of the bolts should completely fill or pass through handle/nut for proper safety. I have had some issues lining that rack up myself in the past, please make sure its not just a couple threads holding it on. As we don't sell the Tesla branded cross bars make sure to reach out to them if you have any concerns or warranty issues. When it comes to cross bar systems, following the manufacturer's notes is what all of us Rack Attacker's start with. If you are unsure and unable to get support from Tesla maybe reach out to one of our many store's for more specific support from our expert installers. www.rackattack.com/stores/ If you are unhappy with the Tesla bars, Yakima has a strong non-hook to the glass style roof rack and comes in a Through style bar for added functionality. www.rackattack.com/fit/tesla/model-3/2021/ Hope that helps clear things up, #DontBeRackless

[@benjaminshtark5977]

Hi, few questions: 1. is these 'official' rack system sold by tesla (same manufacturer)? 2. in my country, unfortunately i cannot order official rack system (no tesla shop, they only sell cars :(... Israel...), can you recommend same or simmilar system i could order? 3. does it support putting 2 adult bycicles on top of it? (like Thule has special bars for bikes....) thanx

[@rackattack]

Hello. Yes, this is a Tesla product, sold by Tesla, we're featuring this video as a public service and to hopefully earn some customers for compatible accessories. The Tesla rack can support two bicycles using a suitable carrier such as the Yakima HighSpeed or HighRoad. Thanks!

[@buystuff9804]

I’m missing the key would I be able to get a replacement somewhere?

[@rackattack]

You can get in touch with your local store for Thule or Yakima key replacements at www.rackattack.com/stores/

[@finecutpost]

It would be great if you had a close up of the where the tape measure is located otherwise an excellent video.

[@rackattack]

The instructions usually mention where to measure from, and that information can change from time to time so we didn't want to potentially mislead on a product we don't sell. Every brand seems to have their "spot" for measuring purposes. Great point to keep in mind going forward though and appreciate the comment.

[@davidregister1286]

Does the Yakima rails work as well. Tesla is out of the Tesla 3 racks...

[@rackattack]

Yes they do! Yakima has a Baseclip system that will work on the Tesla's mounting points as well. Here's a link to find your vehicles fit options. www.rackattack.com/fit/

[@GabeB5517]

Link for the torque wrench used ?

[@rackattack]

Hello. Here's a link to the torque wrench used: www.parktool.com/en-us/product/ratcheting-click-type-torque-wrench-tw-5-2?category=Torque+Tools

[@frederickbouari2625]

Is it normal that when you put a long object on the top such as a ladder or thule cargo box there is a decline - i.e. the horizontal is not at 180 degree level.

[@rackattack]

Hello. Yes, although the front bar sits higher on the roof compared to the rear bar, this compensation is not enough for flat items to sit completely level on the roof.

[@frederickbouari2625]

@@rackattack is it normal the slant is downward towards the front about 10-15 degrees?

[@rackattack]

@@frederickbouari2625 Hello. Yes, all Model 3 Tesla racks have the same configuration with the front bar slightly lower than the rear.

[@darrenernest]

My installation manual says 8 +/- 1 nm. Where did you see 5? For model 3 Tesla OEM rack?

[@rackattack]

Step 12 of our printed manual from our rack system delivered the first week of May, 2019 says: "Tighten the wingnuts with the wrench until tower is firmly affixed to the vehicle. We recommend 5-6 Nm. To confirm the tower is properly installed, pull in all directions and ensure there is no movement." We would caution against going any tighter than 6 Nm, the manual also states that over-tightening can damage the roof.

[@darrenernest]

Johnathan Smith I got the tool at an automotive place that you buy and can return from their rental inventory. But in the end I tightened manually. I was too scared. No need for the tool esp if you're inexperienced with it

[@drproctor22]

@@rackattack Interesting. The current owners manual on Tesla website says 8 +/- 1 nm (Step 11) www.tesla.com/sites/default/files/downloads/model-3-roof-rack-owners-manual-en-us.pdf In your experience would you still recommend to only tighten to 5-6 nm? Thanks

[@AdrianYM]

@@drproctor22 It now says tighten to 2.5-3.5nm. I suppose a lot of glass was getting broken with over-tightening.

[@MrRb13]

and where is the link to actual roof rack? 😒

[@genevievebetancourt7536]

Did you use the Tesla roof rack? Or an after-market rack?

[@Xaluku]

Do the plastic covers come off easily?

[@rackattack]

Yes, pull upward and outward on the cover from the t-slot gap.

[@kapilchhabria1727]

what is that spatula like tool he used at the 1:56 mark to insert the tesla provided specialty tool?

[@rackattack]

Hello. The tool is included with the Tesla roof rack for the purpose of holding back the rubber trim while positioning the metal threaded hook. Thanks.

[@kapilchhabria1727]

@@rackattack yeah that is the black special tool, i did receive that, i was referring to the orange wedge shaped tool. additionally, could you provide me the model number of a bike rack that you sell that bounds on the rails and can accommodate two 26" bikes?

[@rackattack]

@@kapilchhabria1727 The other tool is a simple plastic utensil. Check out the Yakima HighRoad for carrying a bicycle on the Tesla rack: www.rackattack.com/rooftop-bike-racks/yakima-highroad-bike-rack/

[@razvanmargineanu]

How is the sound with the rack on?

[@rackattack]

Hello. It is a very quite roof rack.

[@johnryan5497]

Why not install the hook under the metal instead of the glass?

[@danger_pig]

What size hex tool is it and which torque wrench is that?

[@rackattack]

It's 8mm and a Park torque wrench.

[@andresfeliperamosromero3060]

Great for multiple KID bikes

[@rackattack]

Hello. Yes, potentially, when using suitable bike carrier attachments. Thanks!

[@eldude831]

I guess I'm too strong hand tight and start to hear cracks

[@rackattack]

This was with an install you were working on? You can definitely get some feedback from an installer; rackattack.com has a 'Find Store' option in the top right to find your closest location to speak to our staff if you have concerns

[@adventureamerican7041]

You forgot to slap it and say "that's not going anywhere".

[@MrGoogle87]

Looks like easy breaking..

[@rackattack]

All the roof racks we sell and install are pretty rigorously tested in various conditions to confirm strength and fit on each individual vehicle. If you mean looks like easy breaking as in with a sledge hammer, hitting underground parking or getting in an accident...Sure, probably break pretty easy but those "Worst Case" scenarios would cause almost any cross bar system to break easily, nevermind the poor vehicle!

[@MrGoogle87]

No I am not talking about the rack/ product, but the Tesla Roof (and Tesla’s construction how to hook it invisible). It is so close to glass and how should be mounted

[@MrGoogle87]

No I am not talking about the rack/ product, but the Tesla Roof (and Tesla’s construction how to hook it invisible). It is so close to glass and how should be mounted

[@olesteennielsen]

Vi

[@pjlonely2891]

😂 You will be disappointing when you see your roof is crack when you tie the roof rack because 60% is happening already the metal attack into the glass and not attack in the frame body that’s why it broke

[@rackattack]

If you have any questions about if an install is the best option for your vehicle, we can definitely assist. Rackattack.com will help you find your local store to speak with an installer if you have any concerns

[@gmr7494]

Keep torquing until you hear a little crackle....then you're golden!