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A roof rack holds gear worth hundreds or thousands of dollars, and most of it can be taken in seconds if it isn’t locked. Locks don’t make theft impossible, but they make your car a harder target than the next one. Here is what to lock and what to look for. We chose these for their high ratings and large review counts.
Quick Picks
• Best for matching keys: Thule One-Key System 4-pack, 4.7 stars from 1,300+ reviews, one key for your Thule bars, box and carriers
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Three Places to Lock
| What | What the lock does | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Crossbars to the vehicle | Stops thieves removing the bars from the roof | Many aftermarket crossbars accept lock cores |
| Cargo box to the crossbars | Locks the box so it can’t be lifted off | Most boxes lock the mounts |
| Box lid | Keeps the contents safe | Most boxes lock the lid with the same key |
Keyed-Alike Systems Save Time
Many rack and box makers sell lock cores that match a single key, so one key opens your crossbars, box and carriers. The Thule One-Key System 4-pack gives you four matching cylinders and keys, so one key opens your Thule bars, boxes and carriers. Check that your parts use the One-Key system before you order.
What to Check Before You Buy
- Brand compatibility: locks from one maker often don’t fit another’s crossbars or boxes.
- What’s already included: many cargo boxes ship with locks.
- Where the lock sits: a lock that’s hard to reach is a lock you stop using.
- Cable locks for loose gear: bikes and kayaks often need a cable looped through the frame.
FAQs
Do roof rack locks stop theft?
They deter it. A locked rack takes longer to defeat, so thieves tend to move on to an easier car.
Do cargo boxes come with locks?
Most do. Check the box’s listing and match the key to your bars if you want one key for everything.
Can I use locks from a different brand?
Sometimes, but only if the cores are listed as compatible. Check before you order.
Is gear on the roof covered by insurance?
It depends on your policy, so check your homeowner’s or renter’s coverage.
Final Thoughts
Lock the bars, the box and the lid, use one key if you can, and don’t leave valuables in a box overnight. It’s a small cost next to the gear on your roof.
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