Was considering whether to order my 2010 with or without a roof rack. I wouldn't use it very often, but might find it handy occasionally. Plus- it looks kinda cool. I was wondering what effect the FJ's somewhat oversize roof rack might have on gas mileage and wind noise... Does anyone have an idea? Seems like the big roof rack might actually disrupt aerodynamics enough to have a noticeableble effect on both mileage and noise.
I've heard that the roof rack does cut into your mileage and I've also heard that it has no affect on your mileage...so take your choice. It is a sturdy rack but you'll need a set of metal cross bars if you wish to carry a canoe or one of those carriers on top.
I have actually ordered an FJ without a roof rack...but the salesperson says that almost all the vehicles that they get from Toyota have roof racks...like it or not. My choice may be to accept a roof rack or wait several more months for (possibly) one ordered without a rack....so basically I was wondering whether I should worry about it. Sounds like it should not be a deal breaker...
Just another data point for you - when I bought my '08 I was pretty adamant about getting one without a rack for clearance, appearance, fuel enconomy and noise reasons, but after finding a truck I wanted it had a rack (I also wanted the tow package, and that often came with the rack and spare tire cover as part of the C7 convenience package). Dealer balked at taking it off (and I wasn't sure I had room inside to get it home from the dealer), so I bought the truck with the rack on and with every intention of removing it right away. This was 4 months ago, and the rack is still on the truck and will probably stay on - I've had no real reason to remove it and it's kinda grown on me.
All in all, while I'm sure it has some fuel economy impact, it is relatively light and not too noisy. I've also talked to some folks in my neck of the woods that have gone out and purchased OEM racks on the cheap for trucks that came without for carrying Hi-Lift jacks or other equipment, but that didn't need or want one of the more useful, but also more expensive, aftermarket solutions. On the flip side, it can always be removed (and sold if you are so inclined).
So as a punchline, I'd not really sweat the rack either way - find the truck that has the other options and color you want at the best price you can get whether or not it has a rack. If it doesn't and you want one, pretty east to pick one up and slap it on, or if it does and you can't stand it, it can come off.
Good luck with the purchase - FJJB
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2008 Brick 4x4 6-Speed Manual with All Terrain Package (all stock)
I would get the rack as it virtually weighs nothing and if you decide to mount a high lift jack or lights it will be more convient. Gas mileage will barely be noticed if at all.
__________________ Fabtech 6" Lift + OME 3" 20" BBS rims Nitto 35"s AT,1.25 spacers,Bushwhackers, VR3 The Toy Outfitters bumper ,55 watt fogs,TG sliders, Manik tailight guards, Stallion Light bar,55 watt Baja lights, Cobra 19 SXIV PA, Bandi 4' fire stick, K & N filter, Locker on demand, ATrac hack, VSC & DRL switches, TRD Cat back, Scuba Mod, Garmin Nuvi 200 BlueSeas 6 fuse Interior: leather seats, dual arm rests, dual factory DVD players, Diamond interior trim, Source 10lb, Rubber mats. TT and FJC Badge.
Fabtech 6" Lift + OME 3" 20" BBS rims Nitto 35"s AT,1.25 spacers,Bushwhackers, VR3 The Toy Outfitters bumper ,55 watt fogs,TG sliders, Manik tailight guards, Stallion Light bar,55 watt Baja lights, Cobra 19 SXIV PA, Bandi 4' fire stick, K & N filter, Locker on demand, ATrac hack, VSC & DRL switches, TRD Cat back, Scuba Mod, Garmin Nuvi 200 BlueSeas 6 fuse Interior: leather seats, dual arm rests, dual factory DVD players, Diamond interior trim, Source 10lb, Rubber mats. TT and FJC Badge.
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