Exactly, and a tip—add some padding like towels or blankets under heavy loads to reduce vibration and prevent scratches on your roof.
That’s brilliant! I wouldn’t have thought of that! Any ideas for small items that would usually clutter up the trunk?
You can use a cargo bag or mesh net! They keep things organized and secure on the rack. I’ve found that helps a lot.
I just love how versatile roof racks are! You can load up camping gear or even bikes. Do anyone else find it hilarious how much we can pile on a little Cruze? 
Ha! It does feel like a clown car sometimes! But really, you have to be careful not to overload and risk damaging the roof.
Just remember to double-check your load before hitting the road. It’s easy to forget that you’re hauling extra weight!
Good point! Does anyone have stories of mishaps from overloaded racks? Those would be good learning experiences!
I added a roof rack to my Chevy Cruze last summer. Initially, I noticed a slight drop in fuel efficiency, around 2-3 mpg. It seems the aerodynamic drag increases significantly at higher speeds.
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That’s interesting to hear! I read somewhere that the type of rack can make a difference too. What kind did you go with?
I’ve done some research, and studies suggest that adding a roof rack can reduce fuel efficiency by 10-20%, depending on speed and load. It’s a trade-off for carrying extra gear.
That sounds about right! I often check my mpg during trips, and it definitely drops with my roof rack on. Still worth it for the extra cargo space.
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Anyone else feel like the added wind noise is a downside? I didn’t expect it to be so loud when driving at speed. It’s something to consider if you like a quiet ride.
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Totally agree with you! I think it’s a bit of a trade-off. The extra storage is nice, but I do miss the quiet rides we used to have.
When I installed mine, I thought I’d be fine just removing it when not in use. But I found that it’s a hassle to take off and put back on frequently. Fuel efficiency definitely takes a hit when it’s on.
It’s true! I also leave mine on due to how cumbersome it is. I didn’t think much about the fuel costs initially, but now it’s a consideration for me.
Has anyone tried using a more aerodynamic rack? I’ve considered switching mine out, hoping it may reduce the impact on fuel efficiency.
I saw some reviews online that claimed the more streamlined models help a lot. I’m tempted to upgrade for better mpg myself!
For all the math nerds out there, are there any studies you can share? Would love to see some numbers on this aerodynamic impact. Fuel efficiency is a big deal!
I find it hilarious how we all want to boost efficiency, but we’re loading our roofs with all sorts of ‘essentials’! Who needs home decor on road trips anyway?