Roof rack

Just installed an oem roof rack. Cheaply made but looks nice. It said on a paper crossbars should be deployed into cross car position only when needed to secure loads. Always return crossbars to stowed position when not in use. My question is why cant you drive with them deployed?

 

You might take off without anything on them...



Haha... you obviously can but it just adds wind resistance and I guess they have a better chance of breaking?... I'd do it just for the wind and noise of them.

 

Actually, I think the recommendation is just because the crossbars can stow. After all, why build in that feature if nobody is going to use it.

I usually leave mine just as they were (folded or unfolded) when I last messed with them for whatever reason. About the only time I'll make a determined effort to fold them (assuming they're not being used) is just before a longer trip.

By the way, if there is any noise, I must be playing the radio too loud to hear it. Of course, I'm getting old, so may be going deaf as well.