How to reduce wind noise

Sometimes it sounds like a whistle and other times it sounds like something small is flapping around on the roof. It’s even been known to change pitch as you adjust your speed. Regardless of what it sounds like, it’s never enjoyable. If you haven’t guessed yet, we’re talking about wind noise from your roof racks.

Wind noise is a dynamic problem in that the contributing factors vary on every single drive. This can sometimes make it hard to pinpoint the cause as no two trips are ever identical. Given that vehicles come in different shapes and sizes, a particular product may be noisy on one vehicle but quiet as a mouse on another. Wind and travel speed are also important factors. Even though we can't control all of these contributing factors we have made some suggestions below that may assist in reducing in-cabin noise.

Incorrect installation is the most common cause of noisy roof racks. If you are still experiencing a high level of wind noise after proper installation is checked, you can try the following:

• Check the product instructions to ensure the rubber strips are installed correctly in the channels, both topside and underside of the roof rack bars. The rubber inserts should be cut to the correct length and fitted inside the channel so that there are no gaps (crossbars only)
• Ensure that the end caps are installed and locked before driving (crossbars only)
• Ensure to keep up regular maintenance of the product and ensure there are no loose parts which can contribute to noise levels
• Alter the setup of accessories where possible, to see if a different setup impacts the level of wind noise
• Remove roof racks (if possible) when not in use
• Another option you can look into is our Wind Fairings for 4 Series and 5 Series Pioneer, and Vortex Bars. These may assist to reduce in-cabin noise.

Rhino-Rack Wind Fairings

Wind Fairings are designed to reduce the oncoming wind noise by deflecting the air around your load. If you've got a 5 Series Pioneer Platform, our two wind fairing products – including vehicle-specific and generic wind fairings – are now available. Both come in two sizes and attach directly to the 5 Series Pioneer underside extrusion. A small wind fairing (RWFS) is suitable for all 1236mm wide platforms, and a large (RWFL) will fit all 1376mm, 1426mm and 1465mm wide platforms. We all know weight is a precious commodity when it comes to roof racks, so both have been designed as lightweight products with the RWFS weighing in at 0.95kg and the RWFL at 1.3kg. These are not compatible with the 6 Series Pioneer Platform. 

Both Rhino-Rack Wind Fairings feature:

• Rubber bumpers and abrasion-resistant tape to protect your vehicle's roof
• A sleek design that contours the roof of your vehicle
• Black look to match your Pioneer Platform

What vehicle-specific wind fairings will there be?

Vehicle-specific wind fairings, compatible with specific vehicle Backbone and 5 Series Pioneer combinations are now available.

These wind fairings will be available for the following vehicles only:

• Toyota Hilux N80
• Ford Ranger P703
• Toyota LC200
• Nissan Patrol Y62
• Isuzu D-Max
• Mazda BT-50
• Ford Ranger PX
• Toyota Prado 150

Additional Rhino-Rack wind fairings

Can’t see your vehicle on the list? As long as you know your 5 Series Pioneer Platform, Tradie or Tray size you can purchase the Generic Wind Fairings from Rhino-Rack stores.

For those who don’t have the 5 Series Pioneer, we’ve got a wide range of wind fairings to suit everything from the 4 Series Pioneer Platform, the Pioneer Tradie or Pioneer Tray, and even Vortex Crossbars. Check out the full range.

Not sure what model Pioneer you have?

Let’s face it, it’s no easy feat to remember the model of every single product we’ve ever bought. If you’re struggling to decipher the difference between the 5 and the 4 Series Pioneer, take a look at the images below for a side-profile peek. Or if you've got our latest 6 Series Pioneer, you can learn more at www.rhinorack.com/pioneer6

If you have tried the above and the noise persists, it is best to get in contact with your local dealer to discuss more options suited to your specific situation or you can contact our team at customerservice@rhinorack.com.au.