Posted on August 16, 2011.
How much does a rack to lower gas mileage? I have a 2004 Honda Pilot with a factory roof rack. I bought a Yakima roof rack (lowrider racks, rails, bike and ski rack, and a wind fairing). I'm really happy with the rack, it is durable and easy to adjust, but a pain to take off and replace. I plan to leave it on all the time, but I wonder how much fuel savings achieved with the rack I'm installed. I calculated my gas mileage, but I am crazy to get results - on the grid gets better mileage. I think it's probably because I drive the car with the least support. I usually take public transport when I go to work, so I do not drive the driver that much during the week.
I know there must be some fuel economy achieved, because the car is less aerodynamic with the rack. I do not know how much, and I do not have time or resources to actually try to measure precisely. If I keep the rack system installed, is there a configuration that minimizes the drag? Any advice would be appreciated.
Anything between 2% and 5%. Much also depends on if you drive in or against the wind. I had some on driving in the wind they made so much noise I thought the wheel bearings had gone!
DONT sweat the small things that you can get better mpg perhaps 100mpg or better roof rack and all. Interested?
Consumer Reports says it's 2-3 mpg at highway speeds. More HQ. I wonder if this means with the baggage attached.
