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How to Remove Thule Roof Bars

Thule Roof Bars are both easy to install and remove. If you have a Thule roof bar installed, you should be able to remove it within a few minutes.
thule roof bar with snow
Thule offer a selection of roof bar styles and fitting accessories to fit a range of vehicle models. While each complete roof rack is different, every Thule roof rack operates with an ergonomic compression clamp system. Because of this, removing your Thule roof bar is practically effortless!

Please note, this is a general guide for removing most Thule roof rack systems. systems will vary dependant on the make and model of your vehicle and the type of roof rack system you are using. Always refer to manufacturer instructions before attempting to remove your Thule roof rack to prevent damage to the roof bars and your vehicle.

Step One: Open The Doors

Whether you are removing your roof bar into storage or you are transferring it to another vehicle, the first step in removing your roof bar is to open the doors of your vehicle. Opening the doors allows easy access to the roof bars clamp mechanism, which is often secured inside the door seal. For three door hatchback vehicles, only the two front doors will need to be opened as the rear bar is clamped directly onto the roof.

Step Two: Remove The Clamp Housing

If you installed your Thule roof bar yourself, you will already be aware that the clamp mechanism is covered with a removable casing. This casing is easily removed and you will need to do so to access the mechanism. To remove, simply give each plug a quarter turn anti-clockwise. This can be done with a coin or flathead screwdriver. Some systems may require a key to remove the housing, which will be supplied with the foot pack.

Step Three: Loosen The Clamp

Once the clamp housing is removed, you will notice the screw/s which secure the clamp foot. These will need to be loosened with a screwdriver by turning in a counter-clockwise motion. Make sure you do this until you feel complete resistance from the screw, even once the clamp is completely loosened. Turning until complete resistance will help to insure you start with an equal amount of tension at each foot, when you next come to install your roof rack. Do this on all four feet of your roof rack.

Step Four: Lift Off Each Roof Bar

Once all four foot clamps have been completely loosened, each roof bar should simply lift away from your vehicles roof. However, in some cases you may need to push one side of the roof bar slightly to allow the foot on the opposite side to unhook from the door seal.

Step Five: Remove Residue

In some cases, you may notice that your roof bar has left behind a sticky residue from the foot pads or a collection of grime has built up around the area where the foot was located. If this is the case, simply remove thre residue/grime with plenty of water and a suitble detergent such as a car shampoo.

Now your roof bar is removed and ready for storage or use on another vehicle!