Cant Find Side Roof Rails for Mk3 Rav4 Anywhere!

April 2, 2020

Hi All,

This is my first post on here, having bought a Rav4 (2009, Petrol MK3) a couple of months ago...

In summary I want to be able to carry stuff on my roof and would like to use a roof rack that attaches to the roof rails. The issue is my car didn't come with rails (it seems like this is the case with most MK3s which seems crazy even for a small 4x4)! To clarify I am talking about the side rails (run back to front) not cross bars etc. Please excuse all of the numbered points below! I'm just trying to keep it really clear.

I've done quite a lot of research and it seems like these are my options.

1. New OEM Parts. These seem very expensive.

2. 2nd Hand OEM Part. There are quite a few for the Mk2 but I haven't found any 2nd hand for the MK3.

3. 3rd Party manufactured part. A few on eBay but not convinced by the quality/look.

4. Use Roof Rack rack without side rails. These use clips that tend to be fiddly and not look great.

As you can see each comes with their own set of issues...

I was wondering if anyone could advise me on the following:

1. Where can I get the best price for new OEM parts?

2. Does anyone know if the MK2 Rails fit a MK3 as there are a few 2nd hand on eBay?

3. Anyone know where to find a 2nd hand OEM rail for a MK3?

4. Has anyone bought a part from a 3rd party manufacturer that is good quality and would work with a Thule Roof Rack?

Thanks in advance for any help!

Eddy

April 2, 2020

Hi Eddy,

I was in an identical situation late last year. Mk3 with no roof rails and needed to fit a roof box for 2 weeks worth of luggage. I'd known about 3 months in advance I'd be away for Christmas so watched eBay for a 2nd hand set but had no luck whatsoever.

I did manage to get a pair of OEM roof bars (crossbars) as I knew I'd need these anyway but no rails. I saw all the 3rd party ones but as you, I wasn't convinced of the quality. I the end I bit the bullet and bought from local Mr. T. They were expensive but, as you'd expect, were a doddle to fit, look good and I'm happy knowing they're the real deal.

I got black as the silver ones were quite a bit more expensive. Can't fault the quality and fitting instructions were very clear, all done in about 20 minutes. From my experience, you'll be very fortunate to find a used set, but good luck if that's the way you decide to go.

Phil.

April 3, 2020

Thanks Phil!

Luckily/unluckily, I'm not going anywhere for a while (for anyone reading this in the future we are right in the middle of the Coronavirus lock-down).

I'll keep on trying to find a used set of bars for the time being, but as you say I don't think I'll find any! As soon as we're allowed to travel again I'll probably end up buying them new.

Thanks again,

Eddy

April 13, 2020

Mine were standard equipment on a Spanish T180 equivalent. Not on the Portuguese one though.

March 15, 2022

Hi Eddy

Are you still looking? I have a pair of Toyota Roof Rack (cross not front to back) bars that I bought in 2011 for my 2009 RAV4. I had to sell my Rav last year and now have a Honda CRV so was going to put these on eBay. Lots of use and well loved but excellent shape. The clip into the car, and the doors then just shut over the top.
is this what you’re looking for?

thanks Jo