Best Roof Rack for Jeep Grand Cherokee
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a legendary overlander, but its interior cargo space fills up surprisingly fast when you’re hauling camping gear, recovery boards, or full-sized spares. After years of testing various mounting systems on my own WK2, I’ve learned that a subpar rack leads to deafening wind whistle and compromised fuel economy. My top pick, the Thule WingBar Evo, solves these issues with sophisticated aerodynamics. Here are the best roof racks to expand your Jeep’s horizons.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
Best Roof Rack for Jeep Grand Cherokee: Detailed Reviews
Thule WingBar Evo View on Amazon
If you’re looking for a rack that you can leave on your Jeep year-round without going crazy from wind noise, the Thule WingBar Evo is the gold standard. I find the WindDiffuser technology—a textured rubber strip on top of the bar—exceptionally effective at breaking up airflow. It supports a massive 165lb load capacity, making it perfect for heavy rooftop tents or multiple kayaks. The T-track design is a dream for gear junkies; you can slide accessories on and off without cutting the rubber strip, which is a massive quality-of-life improvement over older Thule models. While it sits at a premium price point, the build quality and the security of the BoxBeam internal structure provide peace of mind during high-speed highway merging. The only minor drawback is that the locks are often sold separately, which feels a bit stingy at this price.
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Brightlines Roof Rack Crossbars View on Amazon
Brightlines has carved out a massive following in the Jeep community, and for good reason. These crossbars are specifically engineered to fit the flush side rails of the 2011-2021 Grand Cherokee models, giving them a sleek, factory-installed appearance. You’ll notice immediately that the installation is incredibly straightforward—it took me less than 20 minutes with the included tools. For the price, the value proposition is unbeatable. You get high-grade aluminum bars that can handle 150lbs, which is plenty for a cargo box or a pair of mountain bikes. While they aren’t quite as silent as the Thule WingBars at speeds over 70 mph, the difference is negligible for most casual drivers. If you want the utility of a roof rack without the “expedition” price tag, this is the smartest investment you can make for your WK2.
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MaxxHaul 70115 Steel Roof Rack View on Amazon
The MaxxHaul 70115 is a classic steel basket that provides a rugged look for an incredibly low price. I recommend this specifically for Jeep owners who need to haul items that you wouldn’t want inside the cabin—like muddy recovery tracks or firewood. It’s a universal fit, so it mounts easily to most existing crossbars. However, I have a pro-tip for you: because it’s steel, I highly suggest applying a clear silicone sealant to the joints during assembly to prevent rust streaks on your white Jeep roof. It is a bit noisier than aero bars due to the basket design, and you will see a slight dip in your MPG. But for under $150, you get a dependable cargo solution that looks great and handles the abuse of the trail. It’s the perfect entry point for someone just starting their overlanding journey.
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Rhino-Rack Pioneer Platform View on Amazon
If you are building a dedicated expedition rig, the Rhino-Rack Pioneer Platform is the ultimate upgrade. Unlike standard crossbars, this is a full flat-deck system made from reinforced nylon and aluminum. I find this platform exceptional because it allows you to mount gear anywhere on the surface using its integrated C-channels. Whether it’s a shovel, a high-lift jack, or a rooftop tent, the Pioneer Platform handles it with zero flex. It features a low-profile design that minimizes drag, which is impressive given its size. The 2024 models have improved the corner casting to make wiring up light bars much easier. Yes, it’s expensive and installation is more involved—you might want a friend to help lift it onto the Jeep—but once it’s on, it’s virtually indestructible. It transforms your Grand Cherokee into a professional-grade gear hauler.
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Yakima JetStream Crossbars View on Amazon
The Yakima JetStream is the direct rival to the Thule WingBar, and it’s a fantastic choice for those who prefer the Yakima ecosystem. The “JetFlow” teardrop shape is inspired by aircraft wings, and you’ll notice it’s remarkably quiet even without a wind fairing. I’ve always appreciated Yakima’s “Same Key System” (SKS), which allows you to use one key for your rack, your bike carrier, and your skybox. The bars are made of seamless extruded aluminum, which makes them light but incredibly stiff. They look stunning on the modern lines of the Grand Cherokee WL. One unique strength is the internal JetTruss structure, which provides incredible strength-to-weight performance. While the installation can be a bit fiddly compared to the Brightlines, the long-term durability and the sleek black finish make it a top-tier contender for any Jeep enthusiast.
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Buying Guide: How to Choose a Roof Rack
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thule WingBar Evo | Daily Driving | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Brightlines Crossbars | Value/OEM Look | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| MaxxHaul 70115 | Camping Gear | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Rhino-Rack Pioneer | Overlanding | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Yakima JetStream | Aesthetics | ★★★★☆ | Check |
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a roof rack affect my Jeep’s gas mileage?
Yes, any roof rack will create some aerodynamic drag. Expect a drop of 1-3 MPG depending on the rack type. Aerodynamic wing-shaped bars like the Thule WingBar Evo have a much smaller impact compared to basket-style racks like the MaxxHaul. Removing the rack when not in use is the best way to maintain factory fuel economy, though modern aero bars are quiet enough to leave on permanently.
How much weight can the Jeep Grand Cherokee roof actually hold?
Most Jeep Grand Cherokee models (WK2 and WL) have a dynamic roof load limit of approximately 150 lbs (68 kg). This is the weight the roof can safely support while the vehicle is moving. The “static” load limit—when the vehicle is parked—is much higher, which is why you can safely use a rooftop tent with two adults inside despite the 150lb driving limit.
Do I need a professional to install these racks?
Generally, no. Most crossbars like the Brightlines or Thule WingBar are designed for DIY installation and can be mounted in 20-45 minutes with basic hand tools. However, full-platform systems like the Rhino-Rack Pioneer are more complex and heavy. For those, having a second person to help with lifting and alignment is highly recommended to avoid scratching your Jeep’s paint during the process.
Can I still use my sunroof with a roof rack installed?
In most cases, yes. High-quality racks like those from Yakima and Thule are designed with enough clearance for the Grand Cherokee’s sunroof to tilt and slide. However, be cautious when mounting a large cargo basket or platform, as the mounting hardware may protrude downwards. Always check for clearance by slowly opening the sunroof for the first time after installation to ensure no contact is made.
How do I stop the “whistling” sound at high speeds?
Whistling is usually caused by air passing through open gaps or channels. Ensure all rubber strips are correctly installed in the T-slots of your bars. If you have a square or round bar rack, adding a wind fairing (a plastic shield that sits at the front) can redirect airflow and significantly reduce noise. Also, ensure the bars are positioned according to the manufacturer’s spacing recommendations.
Final Verdict
For the majority of Jeep Grand Cherokee owners, the Thule WingBar Evo is the ultimate choice for its balance of strength and aerodynamics. If you’re a casual weekend camper, the Brightlines offer incredible value without compromising the look of your vehicle. However, if your Jeep is destined for serious off-road expeditions and heavy gear hauling, the Rhino-Rack Pioneer Platform is the only serious choice to handle the rigors of the trail.