Thule Roof Rack for CRV

[Marshall E]

I purchased the Thule Tracker II Kit No. TK8, 516-5355 fit kit specific for my 2006 Honda CRV. I am installing a Thule rack with the square load bars. The new aero load bars use the same TK8 fit kit. Unfortunately, the TK8 covers (853-5701) do not fit flush on the rail. There is a gap in the cover. I called Thule and they acknowledged that there is a fit problem with 2006 CRVs and older.

Two problems with this gap. First, it doesn't look right--it looks unfinished. Second, it allows water to enter the channel under the rail. Thule recommended that I smear heavy grease on the metal under the rail twice a year to prevent that metal under the rail from rusting. Hmmm...that's not a good answer.

Thule did a sloppy job on the CRV TK8 fit kit. Thule decided to manufacture and sell four interchangeable covers for the TK8 fit kit and they just don't fit properly. FYI, even the ORIGINAL covers on the CRV are not interchangeable. The covers on the left are different from the covers on the right. (Yep, you did not read that wrong and it's not intuitive--the covers are different from left to right, not back to front. They even have different Honda part numbers)

If you are trying to decide between a Yakima and Thule rack for your 2006 CRV (and older), keep this information in mind. I am waiting to hear back from Thule. If they decide to follow up with excellent customer service and manufacture some covers that fit properly, I will post again on this site.
I will not be holding my breath. This has been an issue for years and Thule has not fixed it. It doesn't bode well for Thule.

[Davecr-v]

It dosen't look great but from my experience of a similar set up (TK8 with Rapid aero bars) there is no issue with rust the metal is finished the same way as the rest of the exterior and even through a tough winter there is zero sign of wear. That being said it did anger me but I take the entire unit off including baseplates at the end of the ski season. Its a shame I got my whole set up practically free because I worked for a Thule dealer (They really take care of their people) I'll let them pass, as there is zero problems aside from some minor aesthetic issues and some of the buck has to be passed to Honda for the stupid rail design

[Marshall E]

Great deal on your Thule rack, Dave!

One of the representatives said that the rust occurred after about 5 or 6 years--thus their advice about maintaining the metal with a coat of heavy grease.

At this point, I am going to look at Yakima and use the Mako saddle and the Hully rollers. I also might just put on a Honda factory rack and use the appropriate adapters with the Mako saddle and the Hully roller.

Like you, I was annoyed to find that the covers did not fit properly. It's going to be some trouble to return everything. And yes, it is odd that the CRV covers are different from left to right. BUT, Thule should have known that, measured properly and included replacement covers that are flush to the rail. There is just no excuse to offer four interchangeable covers that don't fit. They know they measured wrong. As it stands now, they have left CRV owners with 2006 and older models standing out in the rain (without proper covers!)

Initially, I didn't have any strong feelings about Thule vs. Yakima, In this particular instance, I don't think it's too much to ask Thule to have properly fitting covers. Thule needs to step up its game! They are measuring other older model cars as we speak. I'm pretty sure they can re-measure the Honda 2006 and older CRVs and get this right. That's what good customer service is all about.

[Musketeer]

I have a set of Thule bars from my previous car that are the same model as those used on the CR-V. I only need the specific fitting kit for the CR-V. I'm now wondering if it isn't a better idea to start from scratch with a new system.

How bad is the gap between the Thule roof bar fittings and Honda Roof bars themselves. Any chance of some pictures to show the look of the thing?

Second has anyone come up with a home made fix perhaps a rubber spacer or similar to sit in the gap?

TBH I don't want to go the expense of a full new system if it is primarily a cosmetic problem when I only need to change the feet on my existing Thule bars.

[Marshall E]

I already sent everything back; otherwise I would take a photograph.
The gap on the Thule feet was primarily in the center--it does not extend all the way across, if I remember correctly. I would imagine you could jury rig some foam or rubber padding for the gap. It's approximately 2 inches long and 3/4 high. The gap is oval-shaped.

Jury rigging something might be a good alternative for you since you have the Thule system already. For my purposes, if I am going to spend that much money on something new, I want it done correctly to begin with. Thule is totally capable of getting their mold right for the CRV. I don't think it is necessary to issue a recall. They could just have the correct-fitting part available if customers call in to complain about the poor fit. My primary concern was not the cosmetic issue--I was concerned about the long-term rusting. I like to keep my car in excellent condition for resale purposes.

I ordered my system from EMS online (they are having a good sale). Fortunately, EMS accepted my return and even paid for the return postage. They had sent a gift certificate ($25, I think) with my initial purchase and they said I could keep that for future purchases. Impressive. I will be doing business with EMS in the future.

[Musketeer]

I'll go with the Thule mounting kit and see if I can't fabricate something to block up the gap. If it works I'll post some pictures.

[Marshall E]

I'd be interested in knowing either way, Musketeer.