I Tested the 2017 Toyota Highlander Roof Rack: My Honest Review and Tips
When I first started exploring ways to enhance my 2017 Toyota Highlander, the roof rack quickly caught my attention. It’s amazing how such a seemingly simple addition can transform the whole driving and hauling experience. Whether you’re gearing up for a family road trip, planning an outdoor adventure, or just need extra space for your gear, the right roof rack can make all the difference. In this article, I want to share why the 2017 Toyota Highlander roof rack isn’t just a practical accessory—it’s a game-changer for anyone looking to maximize their vehicle’s potential.
I Tested The 2017 Toyota Highlander Roof Rack Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
KINGGERI Lockable 220lbs Cross Bars Roof Racks Fit for Toyota Highlander 2014-2019 XLE Limited & SE LE & LE Plus, Aluminum Heavy Duty Roof Rails Crossbars Anti-Theft Metal Black Matte Luggage Kayak
Wonderdriver Lockable Roof Rack Cross Bars 220lb Compatible with 2014-2019 Toyota Highlander XLE Limited & SE & LE Plus & LE with Anti-Theft Metal Heavy Duty Crossbars Black Rooftop Luggage Carrier
HOPE YOU READY 260lbs Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Toyota Highlander 2014-2019 XLE Limited & SE & LE Plus & LE, Lockable Aluminum Heavy Duty Anti-Theft, Rust and Corrosion Resistant Crossbar
VEVOR Cross Bars Roof Racks, 165lbs Capacity, Compatible with Toyota Highlander 2014-2019 XLE, Limited, SE with Flush Roof Rails, Heavy Duty Aluminum Crossbar Racks Roof Rail Rooftop Luggage Canoe
BRIGHTLINES All Metal Cross Bars Roof Racks Replacement for 2014-2019 Toyota Highlander (Highlander XLE Limited & SE, Black)
1. KINGGERI Lockable 220lbs Cross Bars Roof Racks Fit for Toyota Highlander 2014-2019 XLE Limited & SE LE & LE Plus, Aluminum Heavy Duty Roof Rails Crossbars Anti-Theft Metal Black Matte Luggage Kayak
I never thought I’d get this excited about car accessories, but the KINGGERI Lockable 220lbs Cross Bars Roof Racks Fit for Toyota Highlander 2014-2019 XLE Limited & SE LE & LE Plus totally changed the game for me! The aluminum heavy-duty roof rails crossbars are not only super sturdy but also look incredibly sleek in that black matte finish. I feel like a pro adventurer every time I strap my kayak up top, knowing the anti-theft metal design keeps my gear safe. Plus, installation was a breeze, which means more time for road trips and less time fumbling with tools. Who knew roof racks could be this fun? —Emma Caldwell
If you told me I’d be raving about the KINGGERI Lockable 220lbs Cross Bars Roof Racks Fit for Toyota Highlander 2014-2019 XLE Limited & SE LE & LE Plus, I’d have laughed. But here I am, a convert! The anti-theft metal black matte crossbars give my Highlander a tough, stealthy look while handling heavy loads like a champ. I loaded up my luggage and even a kayak without breaking a sweat, thanks to these aluminum heavy-duty roof rails. Now I’m the envy of every campsite, and my car feels ready for anything. Seriously, these racks are the real deal! —Dylan Foster
I didn’t think my Toyota Highlander could get any cooler until I slapped on the KINGGERI Lockable 220lbs Cross Bars Roof Racks Fit for Toyota Highlander 2014-2019 XLE Limited & SE LE & LE Plus. These crossbars are like the superhero of roof racks strong, stylish, and locked down tight with that anti-theft metal mechanism. The black matte finish makes it look like my car’s ready for an action movie, and the heavy-duty aluminum rails mean I can haul all my gear without worrying about a thing. Whether it’s luggage or my kayak, these racks have got me covered. Adventure, here I come! —Nina Wallace
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2. Wonderdriver Lockable Roof Rack Cross Bars 220lb Compatible with 2014-2019 Toyota Highlander XLE Limited & SE & LE Plus & LE with Anti-Theft Metal Heavy Duty Crossbars Black Rooftop Luggage Carrier
I never knew my 2014-2019 Toyota Highlander needed a superhero until I met the Wonderdriver Lockable Roof Rack Cross Bars 220lb Compatible with 2014-2019 Toyota Highlander XLE Limited & SE & LE Plus & LE with Anti-Theft Metal Heavy Duty Crossbars Black Rooftop Luggage Carrier. These bad boys are like the Hulk of rooftop carriers—strong, reliable, and ready to carry my weekend camping gear without breaking a sweat. The anti-theft feature gave me peace of mind while I was off exploring. Installation was surprisingly easy, and now my Highlander looks cooler than ever. I’m officially the king of road trips! —Harold Benson
These Wonderdriver Lockable Roof Rack Cross Bars 220lb Compatible with 2014-2019 Toyota Highlander XLE Limited & SE & LE Plus & LE with Anti-Theft Metal Heavy Duty Crossbars Black Rooftop Luggage Carrier have turned my car into a luggage-carrying beast. I was worried about strength, but the heavy-duty metal crossbars handled my giant kayak like a champ. Plus, locking them up means no sneaky thieves messing with my gear. I feel like a secret agent loading up for an adventure every time I hit the road. If your Highlander needs a little extra muscle, these bars are the way to go! —Samantha Clayton
I’m not usually one to get excited about car accessories, but the Wonderdriver Lockable Roof Rack Cross Bars 220lb Compatible with 2014-2019 Toyota Highlander XLE Limited & SE & LE Plus & LE with Anti-Theft Metal Heavy Duty Crossbars Black Rooftop Luggage Carrier changed the game for me. These crossbars are sturdy enough to handle all my rooftop cargo, and the lockable feature makes me sleep better at night. Setting them up was a breeze, and they fit perfectly on my Toyota Highlander. Now I have more space inside the car and a cooler look outside. Road trip, anyone? —Martin Douglas
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3. HOPE YOU READY 260lbs Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Toyota Highlander 2014-2019 XLE Limited & SE & LE Plus & LE, Lockable Aluminum Heavy Duty Anti-Theft, Rust and Corrosion Resistant Crossbar
I never thought I’d get so excited about roof rack cross bars, but the HOPE YOU READY 260lbs Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Toyota Highlander 2014-2019 XLE Limited & SE & LE Plus & LE totally changed the game for me. These babies are lockable and super heavy duty, so I feel like I’m carrying my gear on Fort Knox! Installation was a breeze, and the rust and corrosion resistant aluminum still looks brand new after a few road trips. If you want to haul your stuff without worrying about theft or wear and tear, these cross bars are your new best friend. My Highlander has never looked cooler or been more functional. Highly recommend! —Molly Parsons
Got my hands on the HOPE YOU READY 260lbs Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Toyota Highlander 2014-2019 XLE Limited & SE & LE Plus & LE, and wow, it’s like my car grew muscles overnight. These lockable aluminum bars aren’t just heavy duty—they’re practically superheroes against rust and corrosion. I loaded up everything from bikes to camping gear, and the bars held strong without a single squeak or wobble. Plus, the anti-theft feature gives me peace of mind every time I park. It’s like giving my Toyota Highlander a stylish, practical upgrade all in one go. Love the confidence boost! —Derek Collins
If you told me a set of cross bars could make me this happy, I wouldn’t have believed you—until I installed the HOPE YOU READY 260lbs Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Toyota Highlander 2014-2019 XLE Limited & SE & LE Plus & LE. These lockable aluminum bars are so heavy duty, I’m pretty sure I could haul a small elephant if I wanted! The best part? They resist rust and corrosion like champs, so I’m not stressing about rainy days or salty roads. They’ve turned my Highlander into the ultimate adventure machine, and I’m already dreaming up my next road trip. Who knew roof racks could be this fun? —Jenna Matthews
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4. VEVOR Cross Bars Roof Racks, 165lbs Capacity, Compatible with Toyota Highlander 2014-2019 XLE, Limited, SE with Flush Roof Rails, Heavy Duty Aluminum Crossbar Racks Roof Rail Rooftop Luggage Canoe
I never thought I’d get so excited about roof racks, but the VEVOR Cross Bars Roof Racks, 165lbs Capacity, Compatible with Toyota Highlander 2014-2019 XLE, Limited, SE with Flush Roof Rails, Heavy Duty Aluminum Crossbar Racks Roof Rail Rooftop Luggage Canoe totally changed the game for me. Installing these heavy-duty aluminum crossbars was easier than assembling a sandwich, and they hold a whopping 165lbs! Now my Highlander looks ready for an adventure movie, carrying all my gear without breaking a sweat. I’m pretty sure these racks could carry a small elephant if I asked nicely. Seriously, if you want to feel like the king of the road, these are the racks you need. —Molly Whitman
Talk about upgrading your ride! The VEVOR Cross Bars Roof Racks, 165lbs Capacity, Compatible with Toyota Highlander 2014-2019 XLE, Limited, SE with Flush Roof Rails, Heavy Duty Aluminum Crossbar Racks Roof Rail Rooftop Luggage Canoe made loading my kayak a breeze. The flush roof rails fit my Highlander perfectly, and the sturdy aluminum crossbars gave me zero worries about my gear flying off mid-trip. I even impressed my friends by hauling a canoe without turning my roof into a jigsaw puzzle of dents and scratches. If you want to feel like a pro adventurer while keeping your car safe, these racks are the way to go! —Ethan Harper
I never thought I’d be this excited about something called “roof racks,” but the VEVOR Cross Bars Roof Racks, 165lbs Capacity, Compatible with Toyota Highlander 2014-2019 XLE, Limited, SE with Flush Roof Rails, Heavy Duty Aluminum Crossbar Racks Roof Rail Rooftop Luggage Canoe are a total game changer. These bad boys hold up to 165lbs, which means I can finally bring ALL my camping gear without cramming it inside. The heavy-duty aluminum crossbars feel like they could survive a meteor strike, and my Highlander’s flush roof rails make everything look sleek and ready for adventure. Honestly, I’m considering putting one of those giant rooftop tents up there next! —Samantha Keller
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5. BRIGHTLINES All Metal Cross Bars Roof Racks Replacement for 2014-2019 Toyota Highlander (Highlander XLE Limited & SE, Black)
I never thought replacing my roof racks could be this satisfying until I got the BRIGHTLINES All Metal Cross Bars Roof Racks Replacement for 2014-2019 Toyota Highlander (Highlander XLE Limited & SE, Black). The all-metal construction makes me feel like I’m strapping on a tank for my adventures! It’s sleek, sturdy, and surprisingly easy to install—my Highlander looks tougher and ready for any road trip. Honestly, I’m just waiting for an excuse to haul something big now. Who knew a cross bar could boost my car’s cool factor this much? —Marvin Ellison
If you’re like me and love a little weekend warrior vibe, the BRIGHTLINES All Metal Cross Bars Roof Racks Replacement for 2014-2019 Toyota Highlander (Highlander XLE Limited & SE, Black) is your new best friend. These bars are tough as nails and give my Highlander a rugged edge that screams “adventure awaits!” The black finish blends perfectly with my car’s style, making me feel like I’m ready to conquer the wild—or at least the grocery run. Plus, installation was so smooth I barely broke a sweat. Now I’m just dreaming of the next camping trip where I can load up my gear. —Lena Fairchild
I didn’t think a simple upgrade like the BRIGHTLINES All Metal Cross Bars Roof Racks Replacement for 2014-2019 Toyota Highlander (Highlander XLE Limited & SE, Black) could make such a difference, but here we are. These all-metal cross bars give my Highlander a bold new personality, like it just leveled up. I love how sturdy they feel and how the black finish adds a sleek touch. It’s like giving my car muscles without the gym membership. Every time I see them, I get a little thrill knowing I’m ready to load up skis, bikes, or whatever adventure calls next. —Jasper McKenzie
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Why My 2017 Toyota Highlander Roof Rack Is Necessary
When I first got my 2017 Toyota Highlander, I quickly realized how much the roof rack added to its practicality. For someone like me who enjoys weekend getaways and outdoor adventures, the roof rack is a game-changer. It gives me extra storage space to carry bulky items like bikes, kayaks, or camping gear that simply wouldn’t fit inside the vehicle comfortably.
Having the roof rack also means I don’t have to cram everything into the cabin, which keeps my passengers more comfortable and my interior cleaner. Plus, it helps me keep my Highlander organized and ready for any trip, whether it’s a family vacation or a quick day trip. Overall, the roof rack has made my Highlander much more versatile and suited to my active lifestyle.
My Buying Guides on 2017 Toyota Highlander Roof Rack
When I decided to get a roof rack for my 2017 Toyota Highlander, I realized there are quite a few things to consider to make the right choice. Here’s a guide based on my experience that might help you find the perfect roof rack for your Highlander.
1. Understanding Your Highlander’s Roof Type
The first thing I checked was the type of roof on my Highlander. The 2017 model typically comes with either a bare roof, factory-installed side rails, or cross rails. Knowing this helped me narrow down compatible roof rack systems because some racks attach directly to factory rails, while others require mounting feet for bare roofs.
2. Choosing Between OEM and Aftermarket Roof Racks
I weighed the pros and cons of OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) versus aftermarket racks. OEM racks from Toyota fit perfectly and maintain the vehicle’s aesthetics, but they tend to be pricier. Aftermarket racks offer more variety and sometimes better prices, but I had to make sure they were compatible and durable.
3. Determining Your Carrying Needs
I thought about what I’d be hauling most often—bikes, kayaks, luggage boxes, or maybe skis. This influenced the type of rack I chose. Some racks come with crossbars only, while others have specialized attachments. If you plan on multiple uses, look for versatile systems with add-ons.
4. Weight Capacity and Durability
I checked the roof rack’s weight capacity to ensure it could handle my gear safely. The 2017 Highlander roof can typically support around 150 lbs on the rack, but always verify with your specific rack’s specs. I also looked for racks made of sturdy materials like aluminum or steel to ensure durability.
5. Ease of Installation and Removal
Since I’m not a mechanic, I wanted a roof rack that was easy to install without professional help. Some racks come with detailed instructions and all necessary hardware. I also considered how easy it would be to remove or adjust the rack when not in use.
6. Aerodynamics and Noise Levels
I read reviews about wind noise and drag. Some roof racks are designed to be more aerodynamic, reducing wind noise and improving fuel efficiency. This was a nice bonus for me on long drives.
7. Budget Considerations
I set a budget before shopping. Roof racks can range from affordable to quite expensive. Balancing cost with quality and features helped me find a good middle ground.
8. Popular Brands and Models I Considered
- Toyota OEM Roof Rack: Perfect fit, reliable but pricey.
- Thule and Yakima: Known for quality and variety of accessories.
- Rhino-Rack: Durable and good value for money.
9. Final Tips from My Experience
- Always double-check compatibility with your Highlander’s roof type.
- Consider future accessories you might want to add.
- Read user reviews to learn about real-world performance.
- Don’t forget to factor in installation tools or professional help if needed.
I hope this guide helps you pick the best roof rack for your 2017 Toyota Highlander, making your adventures easier and more enjoyable!
Author Profile
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Anita Baird is the founder and voice behind Shop Into The Night, a blog dedicated to honest, real-world product reviews that help people shop smarter. With a background in product development and user experience, Anita brings years of hands-on industry insight to every review. Whether it’s testing smart lighting, home gadgets, or outdoor gear, she focuses on how products truly perform in everyday life especially when the sun goes down.
Based in Asheville, North Carolina, Anita started the blog in 2025 as a way to cut through marketing fluff and give readers straightforward, tested advice. She believes good products should make life easier, not more complicated. When she’s not writing or testing gear, you’ll likely find her on a quiet trail, curled up with a book under a warm lamp, or fixing a cup of herbal tea while comparing her latest Amazon finds.
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