Short answer
Yes, a roof rack can use more fuel because it adds aerodynamic drag, mostly at highway speed; how much depends on the rack’s profile and what is on it, and a low profile rack with a leading edge wind deflector keeps the increase down. If you rarely use the rack, removing it saves the most; if you use it every week, a low profile platform is the practical answer.
| Cause | Aerodynamic drag, worst at highway speed |
|---|---|
| Biggest factors | Rack height and frontal profile, and the load |
| Reduce it | Low profile mounting and a leading edge wind deflector |
| Wedgetail deflector | Included on every rack except Trade Max crossbar kits and the Technician ladder rack |
| Rarely used rack | Removing it saves the most |
Do Roof Racks Use More Fuel?
With rising fuel costs and growing awareness around fuel efficiency, you may have seen advice suggesting you should remove your roof rack to reduce fuel consumption.
And in many cases, that advice is correct.
But like most things, it’s not that simple.
Why Roof Racks Can Increase Fuel Consumption
Roof racks can impact fuel economy because they change the way air flows over your vehicle.
At higher speeds, wind resistance (also known as aerodynamic drag) increases. Bulky or poorly designed roof racks can disrupt airflow, forcing your engine to work harder and use more fuel.
This is why general advice often recommends removing your roof rack when it’s not in use.
The Real Issue Isn’t Roof Racks, It’s Drag
Not all roof racks are created equal.
Older or generic designs tend to sit higher on the vehicle and have larger frontal profiles, which increases drag significantly.
That’s where the difference lies.
How Aerodynamic Roof Racks Reduce Fuel Impact
A well-designed roof rack works with your vehicle’s airflow, not against it.
Wedgetail roof racks are engineered with:
- A low-profile design that sits closer to the roofline
- Streamlined edges to reduce wind resistance
- A structure that maintains airflow across the vehicle
The result is a system that minimises drag and reduces the impact on fuel consumption compared to traditional rack designs.
Do You Need to Remove Your Roof Rack?
If you’re running a bulky or outdated roof rack, removing it when not in use can help improve fuel efficiency.
But if your setup is built with aerodynamics in mind, the difference is far less significant.
For many drivers, especially those using their racks regularly for work or travel, removing and reinstalling a roof rack simply isn’t practical.
Choosing the Right Roof Rack for Fuel Efficiency
If fuel economy matters to you, the solution isn’t necessarily removing your roof rack.
It’s choosing the right one.
Look for:
- Low-profile mounting
- Aerodynamic design
- High-quality engineering
- Systems designed specifically for your vehicle
A poorly designed rack will create drag.
A well-designed one will minimise it.
And that’s a difference worth considering.
If you’re looking for a roof rack system designed with both performance and efficiency in mind, explore the Wedgetail range.
Questions and answers
Do roof racks increase fuel consumption?
Yes, through drag, mostly at highway speed; a low profile rack keeps it down.
Should I take my rack off?
If you rarely use it, yes; if you use it often, refitting is rarely practical, so choose a low profile rack.
Does a wind deflector help?
A leading edge deflector smooths the airflow over the front bar.
Does a loaded rack use more?
Yes. Bulky loads add far more drag than the rack itself.
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