A VW ID.4 roof rack can be used to transport bulky items and sports equipment. These could include:
- Large suitcases
- Camping equipment and tents
- Bicycles
- Kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, etc.
- And so on.
Not every VW ID.4 has the necessary features for attaching a roof rack. However, if yours can take one, you should know how to fit one and the risks involved.
This article will tell you all you need to know about the VW ID.4 roof rack. A primary source is the ID.4 owner’s manual. Read yours before attempting to fit or use a roof rack. Neglecting to do so could be extremely dangerous.
Table of Contents
Can your VW ID.4 take a roof rack?
Your VW ID.4 might not be able to support a roof rack. In that case, there’s nothing you can do. VW prohibits any attempts to modify or retrofit a roof rack, and doing so is likely to invalidate your warranty in the event of an accident.
If your car can take a roof rack, you must:
- Use a VW-approved model.
- Getting a VW dealer or specialist to fit it is also recommended.
Dangers and risks associated with the VW ID.4 roof rack
Driving becomes inherently riskier when you fit a roof rack and load items onto it. Below, you’ll find some of the things you must consider. Note that this list is not exhaustive.
- Get an approved roof rack installed by a specialist.
- Never use a breaking roof rack.
- Never modify a roof rack.
- Only attach a roof rack at the specified mounting points.
- Distribute the load evenly across the roof rack.
- Don’t let the roof rack or its load interfere with the aerial or damage the panoramic glass roof.
- All loads must be tightly secured with high-quality, good-condition straps or lashing.
- Check all straps and bolts every time you stop on a long journey.
- When you open the trunk, don’t let it hit the roof rack or its contents. It could damage it or break the rear windshield glass.
- Items susceptible to damp, cold, wind, etc. (such as suitcases) shouldn’t be carried on a roof rack.
- Certain equipment, such as luggage, skis, boats, surfboards (and similar), and bicycles, require specially designed roof racks and/or accessories.
- If you notice any signs suggesting that the roof rack or its load is going to fall off, pull over immediately.
- Steering behavior changes.
- Your ID.4’s range will reduce due to the increased weight and air resistance.
- Cross-winds have a more significant impact.
- Acceleration and braking will be more sluggish (due to increased top-heavy weight).
- In bad weather, drive even more carefully than usual.
- Accelerate, brake, and steer gently to ensure the load in the roof rack doesn’t fall off.
- Remove the roof rack before entering height clearance areas such as car washes.
How much weight can the VW ID.4 roof rack carry?
You should check your owner’s manual to ensure you get the correct weight limit for your model age and specification. That said, the weight limit for most ID.4 roofs is 75 kg.
This figure includes the weight of the roof rack itself, as well as the loads and securing items.
You can find the weight of your roof rack in its official specifications. If necessary, you could even weigh it yourself.
Never exceed the maximum weight limit for your ID.4!
You must also never exceed the weight limit for your roof rack, even if you’re below the tolerance for the car’s roof weight limit.
Always drive safely.
When do you need to take the VW ID.4 roof rack off?
As alluded to in the risks section, you must take the roof rack off in certain situations.
- If the roof rack breaks.
- Before entering a car wash.
- Before entering a height-restricted area such as a garage, shop, tunnel, or underpass.
- When you no longer need to use it (for example, if you move away from the ocean and sell your surfboard).
You should have the roof rack removed by a VW dealer or specialist mechanic.
You’ll find all the information you need on the VW ID.4 and its roof rack in the owner’s manual. As a reminder, don’t use a roof rack until you’ve carefully read through this section.
Find a copy of the ID.4’s owner’s manual below.
