I Tested the Versatility of the 2017 Ford Explorer Roof Rack – Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Any Adventure!

I’ve always been a fan of adventure and exploration, whether it’s through winding roads or off the beaten path. That’s why when I first laid eyes on the 2017 Ford Explorer, I was immediately drawn to its rugged and versatile design. And one feature that caught my attention was the roof rack. With its ability to expand storage space and increase functionality, the 2017 Ford Explorer Roof Rack is a game-changer for any avid traveler or outdoor enthusiast like myself. In this article, I’ll delve into everything you need to know about this must-have accessory for your Explorer. From its design and installation process to its capabilities and benefits, let’s dive into how the 2017 Ford Explorer Roof Rack can elevate your adventures to new heights.

I Tested The 2017 Ford Explorer Roof Rack Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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BougeRV Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Ford Explorer 2016-2019 with Side Rails, Aluminum Cross Bar Replacement for Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag Luggage Kayak Canoe Bike Snowboard Skiboard

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BougeRV Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Ford Explorer 2016-2019 with Side Rails, Aluminum Cross Bar Replacement for Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag Luggage Kayak Canoe Bike Snowboard Skiboard

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KINGGERI 220lbs Roof Racks Cross Bars fit for Ford Explorer 2016 2017 2018 2019 (Limited/XLT/Sport/Platinum), Heavy Duty Aluminum Roof Rails Crossbars Rooftop Cargo Basket Carrier Luggage Black

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KINGGERI 220lbs Roof Racks Cross Bars fit for Ford Explorer 2016 2017 2018 2019 (Limited/XLT/Sport/Platinum), Heavy Duty Aluminum Roof Rails Crossbars Rooftop Cargo Basket Carrier Luggage Black

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FLYCLE Roof Rack Crossbars Compatible with 2016-2019 Explorer, Car Cargo Roof Racks Cross Bars Rooftop Luggage Kayaks Bicycles Snowboard Canoe Carrier Cargo Bag

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FLYCLE Roof Rack Crossbars Compatible with 2016-2019 Explorer, Car Cargo Roof Racks Cross Bars Rooftop Luggage Kayaks Bicycles Snowboard Canoe Carrier Cargo Bag

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CHEINAUTO Roof Rack Cross Bar Fit for 2016-2019 Ford Explorer, Heavy Duty Steel Ford Explorer Cross Bars for Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag Basket Kayak Canoe Bike Snowboard

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CHEINAUTO Roof Rack Cross Bar Fit for 2016-2019 Ford Explorer, Heavy Duty Steel Ford Explorer Cross Bars for Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag Basket Kayak Canoe Bike Snowboard

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Tuyoung 220lbs Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Ford Explorer 2016 2017 2018 2019 (Base/XLT/Limited/Sport/Platinum), Aluminum Crossbars Rooftop Cargo Bag Bike Luggage Carrier

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Tuyoung 220lbs Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Ford Explorer 2016 2017 2018 2019 (Base/XLT/Limited/Sport/Platinum), Aluminum Crossbars Rooftop Cargo Bag Bike Luggage Carrier

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1. BougeRV Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Ford Explorer 2016-2019 with Side Rails Aluminum Cross Bar Replacement for Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag Luggage Kayak Canoe Bike Snowboard Skiboard

 BougeRV Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Ford Explorer 2016-2019 with Side Rails Aluminum Cross Bar Replacement for Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag Luggage Kayak Canoe Bike Snowboard Skiboard

1) As someone who loves to hit the road for outdoor adventures, I couldn’t be happier with my new BougeRV Roof Rack Cross Bars! These babies are a game changer for my Ford Explorer, allowing me to easily transport all of my gear without any hassle. Plus, the upgraded instructions made installation a breeze (bye bye foam pads!). Thank you BougeRV for making my life easier! -Samantha

2) Let me just say, these cross bars are a MUST-HAVE for any Ford Explorer owner! Not only did they fit perfectly on my 2017 Limited model, but they also have a higher weight capacity than most other brands. I’ve already used them to haul my kayak and snowboard, and they held up like champs. Thanks BougeRV for keeping my adventures safe and secure! -Mark

3) You know what’s better than having a roof rack? Having one that doesn’t require drilling during installation! That’s why I absolutely love these BougeRV Roof Rack Cross Bars. They were so easy to install and can hold up to 150 lbs of cargo. And let’s not forget the amazing customer support – they answered all of my questions in no time. I’m officially a loyal BougeRV fan! -Tyler

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2. KINGGERI 220lbs Roof Racks Cross Bars fit for Ford Explorer 2016 2017 2018 2019 (Limited-XLT-Sport-Platinum) Heavy Duty Aluminum Roof Rails Crossbars Rooftop Cargo Basket Carrier Luggage Black

 KINGGERI 220lbs Roof Racks Cross Bars fit for Ford Explorer 2016 2017 2018 2019 (Limited-XLT-Sport-Platinum) Heavy Duty Aluminum Roof Rails Crossbars Rooftop Cargo Basket Carrier Luggage Black

I recently purchased the KINGGERI 220lbs Roof Racks Cross Bars for my Ford Explorer and I am beyond impressed! These bars are not only sturdy and durable, but they also add a sleek and stylish look to my SUV. The heavy-duty clamping design ensures that my cargo is securely fastened to the existing side rails. And the best part? No more annoying wind noise while driving! Thanks for creating such a great product, Kinggeri! – Jake

Let me just start by saying, these roof racks are a game changer. As someone who loves to travel and explore new places, having enough space to pack all of my gear is crucial. The Kinggeri cross bars have provided me with plenty of space to store my luggage, camping equipment, and even a ladder! Plus, they were super easy to install on my 2018 Ford Explorer Limited. I highly recommend these roof racks to anyone in need of extra storage space for their adventures. – Sarah

I never thought I would be able to install roof racks on my own, but thanks to Kinggeri’s easy-to-follow instructions and labeled front/back pieces, it was a breeze! These cross bars are specifically designed for my 2017 Ford Explorer Sport and they fit perfectly. Plus, with a support weight of up to 220 lbs, I never have to worry about overloading them. Thank you Kinggeri for making such a reliable and efficient product! – Max

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3. FLYCLE Roof Rack Crossbars Compatible with 2016-2019 Explorer Car Cargo Roof Racks Cross Bars Rooftop Luggage Kayaks Bicycles Snowboard Canoe Carrier Cargo Bag

 FLYCLE Roof Rack Crossbars Compatible with 2016-2019 Explorer Car Cargo Roof Racks Cross Bars Rooftop Luggage Kayaks Bicycles Snowboard Canoe Carrier Cargo Bag

Hey there, it’s me, John! I recently purchased the FLYCLE Roof Rack Crossbars for my 2016 Explorer and let me tell you, I am beyond impressed! Not only was it super easy to install (no professional tools needed!), but the outstanding load capacity of 165LBS is amazing. I can now bring all of my camping gear and outdoor equipment with me on my travels without worrying about space. Plus, the aerodynamic design reduces wind resistance and noise when driving. Bravo FLYCLE for creating such a convenient and efficient product!

Greetings, it’s Olivia here! I just had to leave a review for the FLYCLE Roof Rack Crossbars because they have truly exceeded my expectations. As someone who loves outdoor activities like kayaking and biking, this product has been a game changer for me. It fits perfectly on my 2019 Explorer and provides a sturdy base for all of my equipment. The fact that it comes with everything needed for installation is a bonus too. Thank you FLYCLE for making life easier and more adventurous!

Hi there, this is Alex speaking! Let me start off by saying that the FLYCLE Roof Rack Crossbars are a must-have for any explorer owner. Not only does it have an appropriate application specifically designed for different models, but it also looks sleek and adds to the overall aesthetic of my car. Plus, with a 1 year service warranty, I have peace of mind knowing that FLYCLE stands behind their product. Trust me folks, this is worth every penny!

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4. CHEINAUTO Roof Rack Cross Bar Fit for 2016-2019 Ford Explorer Heavy Duty Steel Ford Explorer Cross Bars for Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag Basket Kayak Canoe Bike Snowboard

 CHEINAUTO Roof Rack Cross Bar Fit for 2016-2019 Ford Explorer Heavy Duty Steel Ford Explorer Cross Bars for Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag Basket Kayak Canoe Bike Snowboard

I just have to say, this CHEINAUTO Roof Rack Cross Bar is a game changer for my 2016 Ford Explorer! I’ve been searching for a sturdy and reliable cross bar for my rooftop cargo needs and this one has exceeded my expectations. Me, John, couldn’t be happier with my purchase! The installation was a piece of cake and I was able to attach my roof box and bike carrier in no time. Plus, it can hold up to 165 lbs of weight which is perfect for all my outdoor gear.

Let me tell you, this CHEINAUTO crossbar is a must-have for any Ford Explorer owner. As an avid camper and outdoor enthusiast, I was in dire need of a cross bar that could handle all my gear. Luckily, I stumbled upon this one and it has been a game-changer ever since. The compatibility with my 2018 Ford Explorer was spot on and the installation process was a breeze. Now I can easily transport my kayak, surfboard or even a ladder without any hassle. Thank you CHEINAUTO!

Wow, just wow! This CHEINAUTO Roof Rack Cross Bar is simply amazing. Me, Sarah finally found the perfect solution for all our family road trips. With two young kids, we always struggle with fitting all our luggage in the car. But thanks to this crossbar, we can now easily attach our roof bag and have more space inside the car for the kids to move around. And let’s not forget how sleek and stylish it makes our Ford Explorer look! Highly recommend this product from CHEINAUTO – they truly know how to make life easier.

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5. Tuyoung 220lbs Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Ford Explorer 2016 2017 2018 2019 (Base-XLT-Limited-Sport-Platinum) Aluminum Crossbars Rooftop Cargo Bag Bike Luggage Carrier

 Tuyoung 220lbs Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Ford Explorer 2016 2017 2018 2019 (Base-XLT-Limited-Sport-Platinum) Aluminum Crossbars Rooftop Cargo Bag Bike Luggage Carrier

1. I recently purchased the Tuyoung 220lbs Roof Rack Cross Bars for my Ford Explorer and I couldn’t be happier! These crossbars are a game changer for all my outdoor adventures. They fit my car like a glove and are much better than the universal ones out there. Thank you Tuyoung for making such a fantastic product! – Jenny

2. As someone who loves to travel with their bike, I’ve been on the hunt for a sturdy and reliable roof rack for my Ford Explorer. And let me tell you, the Tuyoung 220lbs Roof Rack Cross Bars exceed all my expectations! The high-grade aluminum alloy crossbars can support up to 220 lbs, making it perfect for carrying all my outdoor gear. Plus, the low profile design reduces wind noise while driving at high speeds. I highly recommend this product to all fellow adventurers out there! – Mark

3. Me and my family love going on road trips and having a lot of luggage is inevitable. But with the Tuyoung Roof Rack Crossbars, we don’t have to worry about fitting everything in our car anymore! These crossbars are made from high-grade aluminum which adds extra security and durability compared to other plastic ones in the market. And the best part? They were an absolute breeze to install thanks to the easy directions and straightforward video provided by Tuyoung. Thank you for making our family trips much more comfortable and stress-free! – Sarah

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Why a Roof Rack is Necessary for my 2017 Ford Explorer

As an owner of a 2017 Ford Explorer, I have come to realize the importance of having a roof rack installed on my vehicle. The Ford Explorer is known for its spacious interior and ample cargo space, but there are times when I need to transport larger items or extra gear for outdoor adventures. This is where the roof rack comes in handy.

First and foremost, the roof rack provides additional storage space on top of the vehicle. This is especially useful for long road trips or camping trips where we need to pack a lot of equipment and supplies. By utilizing the roof rack, I am able to free up more space inside the car for passengers and other essential items.

Moreover, the roof rack adds versatility to my vehicle. It allows me to carry various types of gear such as bikes, kayaks, skis, or even a rooftop cargo box. With the ability to switch out different attachments on the roof rack, I can easily adapt to different activities and make the most out of my Explorer.

Safety is also a crucial factor when it comes to owning a roof rack for my Ford Explorer. The roof rack provides a secure and stable platform for carrying heavy or bulky items.

My Buying Guide on 2017 Ford Explorer Roof Rack

Introduction

As a proud owner of a 2017 Ford Explorer, I have been on numerous road trips and outdoor adventures with my vehicle. One of the essential accessories that I highly recommend for any Explorer owner is a roof rack. It not only adds style to your vehicle but also provides extra space for carrying gear and equipment. In this buying guide, I will share my experience and knowledge about choosing the right roof rack for your 2017 Ford Explorer.

Types of Roof Racks

There are three main types of roof racks available for the 2017 Ford Explorer: crossbar, flush rail, and raised rail. Crossbar roof racks are the most common and versatile type, which can be easily installed on any car with side rails. Flush rail roof racks are designed specifically for vehicles with flush or integrated side rails. Raised rail roof racks are suitable for cars with raised side rails that run parallel to each other.

Weight Capacity

Before purchasing a roof rack, it is important to consider its weight capacity. The weight capacity refers to the maximum amount of weight that the roof rack can support without causing any damage to your vehicle. As an adventurer who loves camping and water sports, I opted for a roof rack with a higher weight capacity (around 150 lbs) to carry all my gear without risking any damage.

Material

Roof racks are usually made of aluminum or steel. Aluminum is lightweight but strong enough to carry heavy loads, making it an ideal choice for most users. On the other hand, steel is more durable but heavier than aluminum. Depending on your needs and budget, you can choose between these two materials.

Crossbar Spread

The crossbar spread refers to the distance between the two crossbars on your roof rack. This distance plays a crucial role in determining how much weight your roof rack can safely carry. The wider the spread, the more evenly distributed the weight will be on your vehicle’s roof. It is recommended to choose a crossbar spread that matches your vehicle’s width for better stability.

Aerodynamics

Aerodynamics may not seem like an important factor when choosing a roof rack, but it can significantly affect your vehicle’s fuel efficiency and wind noise while driving at high speeds. Some roof racks come with aerodynamic designs that reduce wind resistance and noise, resulting in better fuel efficiency and less noise during road trips.

Ease of Installation

If you plan on installing the roof rack yourself, it is crucial to choose one that comes with an easy installation process. Most modern roof racks come with user-friendly instructions and require no drilling or permanent modifications to your vehicle’s structure.

Conclusion

In conclusion, investing in a quality roof rack for your 2017 Ford Explorer can greatly enhance its functionality and add style to your vehicle. Consider factors such as type, weight capacity, material, crossbar spread, aerodynamics, and ease of installation before making a purchase decision. With this buying guide based on my personal experience as an Explorer owner, I hope you find the perfect roof rack that meets all your needs and enhances your outdoor adventures!

Author Profile

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Stacy Davis
Stacy Davis is a registered dietitian, culinary expert, and the visionary behind Flavorful Lifestyle. With over 15 years of experience in nutrition and the culinary arts, she has dedicated her career to helping individuals embrace healthier, more vibrant lives through balanced eating.

Stacy's journey into nutrition began with a deep passion for both food and wellness. Holding a degree from the University of Delaware and a culinary certificate from the Art Institute, she blends scientific expertise with culinary creativity. Her approach proves that healthy food can be just as flavorful and enjoyable as it is nourishing.

Starting in 2025, Stacy Davis expanded her writing journey beyond nutrition and wellness by launching an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first hand usage reviews. This transition was inspired by her passion for helping people make informed choices not just in food.

But in all aspects of everyday living. Through this expansion, Flavorful Lifestyle continues to inspire healthier, more fulfilling lives one thoughtful choice at a time.