Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Many Subaru owners eventually face a choice: keep their OEM crossbars or upgrade to an aftermarket setup.
For some, factory crossbars work perfectly well. For others, larger cargo boxes, kayaks, and multiple accessories make aftermarket options worth considering.
The right choice depends on how you use your vehicle. In real-world Subaru ownership, fitment, flexibility, and everyday usability often matter more than weight capacity alone.
What’s the Difference Between OEM and Aftermarket Crossbars?
What OEM Crossbars Are
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) crossbars are designed specifically for Subaru vehicles and are sold through Subaru dealerships or Subaru parts suppliers.
Their biggest advantages are simplicity, straightforward fitment, and compatibility with the vehicle. For many owners carrying bikes, skis, or smaller cargo boxes, OEM crossbars provide enough functionality without requiring additional research or setup.
What Aftermarket Crossbars Are
Aftermarket crossbars are produced by third-party manufacturers and are available in a wider range of designs, sizes, and configurations.
Many aftermarket systems offer greater adjustment flexibility, broader accessory compatibility, and more options for carrying larger cargo boxes, kayaks, and multiple roof accessories. The tradeoff is that installation and fitment can require more planning.
Why Subaru Owners Compare Them
Most Subaru owners compare OEM and aftermarket crossbars when they start running into limitations with their current roof setup.
For occasional roof storage, OEM crossbars are often enough. As cargo boxes get larger or gear needs become more demanding, many owners begin looking for better cargo box fitment, improved accessory compatibility, and greater flexibility.
The decision usually comes down to simplicity versus versatility rather than carrying capacity alone.
Where OEM Crossbars Work Best
Simplicity and Convenience
OEM crossbars are designed specifically for Subaru vehicles, making fitment and installation straightforward.
For many owners, the biggest advantage is convenience. There is less research, fewer compatibility concerns, and a simpler setup process compared to many aftermarket systems.
Smaller Cargo Boxes and Bikes
OEM crossbars work well for many common roof storage needs.
Smaller cargo boxes, bike racks, ski carriers, and similar accessories typically fit without issue. For owners carrying lighter gear, OEM crossbars often provide all the functionality needed.
Occasional Roof Storage
Many Subaru owners only use roof storage a few times each year.
For occasional road trips, vacations, camping weekends, or seasonal activities, OEM crossbars are often a practical solution. They provide useful carrying capacity without the added cost or complexity of a more specialized system.
Why Many Owners Never Need to Upgrade
A large percentage of Subaru owners never reach the limits of their OEM crossbars.
If the setup comfortably supports your cargo box, bikes, skis, or other gear, there may be little practical reason to upgrade. For many owners, simplicity and reliability outweigh the additional flexibility offered by aftermarket systems.
Where Aftermarket Crossbars Work Best
Larger Cargo Boxes
Aftermarket crossbars often become worthwhile when larger cargo boxes enter the picture.
Many systems offer greater bar spread and positioning flexibility, making it easier to achieve proper fitment and maintain rear hatch clearance. This becomes increasingly important as cargo boxes get longer and larger.
Cargo Boxes That Often Push Owners Beyond OEM Crossbars
Best Overall
Best Family Cargo Box
Best Premium Cargo Box
Best Budget Cargo Box
Better Hatch Clearance
Hatch clearance is one of the most common reasons Subaru owners upgrade.
Aftermarket crossbars typically allow more adjustment, making it easier to position a cargo box without interfering with the rear hatch. Small changes in placement can have a noticeable impact on everyday usability.
Kayaks and Longer Gear
Kayaks, canoes, skis, and other longer gear often benefit from wider bar spacing and additional flexibility.
Many aftermarket systems provide better support and stability for longer loads, helping reduce movement and improve confidence during highway driving.
Multiple Accessories
Aftermarket crossbars are often the better choice when carrying different types of gear throughout the year.
Cargo boxes, bike racks, kayak carriers, and ski racks can place different demands on a roof rack system. Greater accessory compatibility and positioning flexibility make it easier to adapt the setup as gear needs change over time.
OEM vs Aftermarket Crossbars in Real Use
Cargo Box Fitment
OEM crossbars work well with many smaller cargo boxes and light roof storage setups.
The differences become more noticeable as cargo boxes get larger. Aftermarket crossbars often provide greater bar spread and positioning flexibility, making it easier to achieve proper fitment and avoid clearance issues.
Hatch Clearance
Hatch clearance is one of the biggest practical differences between OEM and aftermarket systems.
OEM crossbars may offer limited adjustment options, while aftermarket systems often allow more flexibility in cargo box placement. This can make it easier to fully open the rear hatch without contacting the cargo box.
Wind Noise
OEM crossbars are often designed with everyday driving in mind and generally perform well for occasional use.
Many aftermarket aerodynamic crossbars can be even quieter, particularly when left installed year-round. The biggest differences are usually noticed during highway driving and longer road trips.
Daily Driving Convenience
OEM crossbars typically have the advantage in simplicity.
They are designed specifically for the vehicle, require less setup, and often involve fewer compatibility concerns. Aftermarket systems provide more flexibility but can add cost, installation time, and additional hardware.
For many Subaru owners, the decision comes down to whether they value convenience or versatility more.
| Feature | OEM Crossbars | Aftermarket Crossbars |
| Cargo Box Fitment | Good | Better |
| Hatch Clearance | Limited Adjustment | More Flexible |
| Accessory Compatibility | Good | Better |
| Wind Noise | Good | Good to Excellent |
| Ease of Use | Excellent | Good |
| Daily Practicality | Excellent | Very Good |
Which One Makes More Sense for Most Subaru Owners?
Keep OEM If…
OEM crossbars are often the better choice if you use roof storage occasionally and your current setup handles your gear without problems.
They work well for smaller cargo boxes, bikes, skis, and occasional road trips. If you value simplicity, easy installation, and minimal setup complexity, there may be little reason to upgrade.
Upgrade If…
Aftermarket crossbars make more sense when roof storage becomes a regular part of how you use your vehicle.
Larger cargo boxes, kayaks, multiple accessories, and recurring fitment or hatch-clearance issues are common reasons owners upgrade. If you need more flexibility, better accessory compatibility, or improved cargo box positioning, aftermarket crossbars often provide meaningful advantages.
Popular Aftermarket Crossbar Upgrades
Best Overall Upgrade
Best Premium Upgrade
Best For Kayaks & Longer Gear
Best Budget Upgrade
FAQs
Are OEM Subaru crossbars good enough?
For many owners, yes. OEM crossbars work well for smaller cargo boxes, bikes, skis, and occasional roof storage needs.
Do aftermarket crossbars hold more weight?
Sometimes, but the bigger advantage is usually flexibility, accessory compatibility, and cargo box fitment rather than weight capacity alone.
Which works better with cargo boxes?
For smaller cargo boxes, OEM crossbars often work well. For larger cargo boxes, aftermarket crossbars typically provide better fitment and positioning flexibility.
Do aftermarket crossbars improve hatch clearance?
Often yes. Additional adjustment options can make it easier to position a cargo box without interfering with the rear hatch.
Are OEM crossbars easier to install?
Usually. They are designed specifically for the vehicle and generally involve fewer fitment and compatibility concerns.
Are aftermarket crossbars worth the extra cost?
They can be if you frequently use cargo boxes, kayaks, or multiple roof accessories. For occasional use, OEM crossbars are often enough.
When should you upgrade from OEM crossbars?
Consider upgrading when you start experiencing cargo box fitment issues, hatch clearance problems, accessory limitations, or more demanding roof storage needs.
Final Thoughts
The choice between OEM and aftermarket crossbars depends on your storage needs.
For occasional use, OEM crossbars are often enough. For larger cargo boxes, kayaks, multiple accessories, or fitment issues, aftermarket crossbars can offer more flexibility.
The best setup is the one that fits your gear and driving habits without adding unnecessary cost or complexity.
Related Gear To Consider
Cargo Boxes
Bike Racks
Kayak Carriers
Related Guides
Leave a Reply