Motorists Warned to Remove Roof Racks Before Filling Up with Fuel

As the weather warms up and road trips become more appealing, it’s important for drivers to consider all factors that can impact their fuel efficiency. One often overlooked aspect is the presence of roof racks on vehicles.

Recent warnings from major supermarkets like Tesco, Asda, Morrisons, and Sainsbury’s have urged motorists to remove roof racks before filling up with petrol or diesel. The reason? According to Sam Sheehan, motoring editor at cinch, roof racks can create wind resistance, leading to increased fuel consumption due to the drag effect. Studies have shown that an empty roof rack can increase drag by up to 16% at 75mph, while an unused roof box can add up to 39% more drag. This means not only will you be slowing down, but you’ll also be using more fuel unnecessarily.

Industry experts at What Car? True MPG have found that cars can achieve 27% less fuel efficiency if they have roof racks installed. While roof boxes may seem like a convenient solution for extra storage space, they come with a hefty price tag ranging from £130 to £750, not to mention the additional costs of related kits, foot packs, and professional fitting.

What Car? editor, Jim Holder, emphasizes that most cars already struggle to match the official MPG figures provided by manufacturers, and adding a roof box only exacerbates the issue. The added weight and aerodynamic drag from the box will undoubtedly harm your fuel efficiency, ultimately costing you more in the long run.

So, before you hit the road for your next adventure, consider removing your roof rack to save money, minimize emissions, and maximize your fuel efficiency. It may seem like a small change, but it can make a significant difference in the long term. Stay safe, save money, and enjoy your travels without the unnecessary drag of a roof rack holding you back.