Thule roof racks are simple to install and remove. But many people face trouble when dealing with them. If you have ever experienced difficulty unlocking, this article will guide you on how to remove a Thule roof rack.
Unfortunately, various Thule dealers receive several calls from their customers requesting guidance on removing these accessories.
As that’s the case, the locking mechanisms seem to confuse many people despite being made in the simplest form.
Thule roof bars come with integrated locks. These locks feature removable cylinders from each side.
In addition, crossbars are secured using a strap that is locked with a bolt and usually covered. That’s why you will have to ply out the end cap to access the strap’s bolt lock after unlocking with Thule key.
However, most troubles are experienced when plying out the end caps and loosening the bolt to disconnect the rubber strap.
Thankfully, this article will leave everything clear. Read on to learn how to remove a Thule roof rack.
How to Remove a Thule Roof Rack
You don’t have to be an expert. Rather, you need simple instructions on how to use these unique bars. Read on;
Step 1: Open the Car Doors or Get a Strong Crate to Step on
You already know most SUVs and minivans are raised. So, find something to step on to avoid trouble hurting your hands or spending more time on this simple task.
Ideally, open the car doors and stand on the doorsteps or find a solid crate to step on while removing the bars.
Another option is finding a ladder. You’d be lucky if you have a small ladder for your gardening activities.
Step 2: Unlock the Bar Using Thule Key
How to unlock Thule roof rack is simple. Proceed by inserting your Thule key into the removable cylinder and turn it counterclockwise.
Once you turn counterclockwise, the key will attach to the cylinder. All right, remove and place the cylinder on a secure plate.
Read: How much does it cost to install roof rails?
Step 3: Remove the End Cap
Place your finger underneath the cap and feel a small lever. Then pull the lever outward, and the cap will move out of the bar.
Most Thule bars have a small tool attached to the end cap to unscrew the bolts securing the rubber straps.
As such, you don’t have to keep the cap far because you will need to use it in the next step.
However, if the cap has no screwdriver, worry less; a separate flat end screwdriver can get the job done.
Step 4: Loosen the Bolt
After exposing the inner part, you will see a small black bolt above the rubber strap end. This bolt secures the strap.
Using your screwdriver, loosen the bolt to release the clamp. If the strap remains stuck inside the clamp, you will have to unscrew the whole nut. At times, it may fail due to a long period of use without removing or servicing.
Read: Luggage rack how to use
Step 5: Disconnect the Rubber Strap
Manually disconnect the rubber strap from the clamp after loosening the bolt.
Ideally, push the strap with one hand from the back and use the other hand to detach it from the clamp. Once it disconnects, proceed to the next.
Step 6: Repeat the Process on All Feet
Repeat the process on all feet before attempting to lift the roof rack. Take note that some lock cylinders may get stuck due to exposure to rain and grime.
Always turn the keys carefully to avoid damaging the lock systems in case they are stuck.
However, getting stuck is rare because Thule metallic parts are usually made of rust-proof materials.
Read: How to seal roof rack holes
Step 7: Peel the Stuck Rubber Straps
Exposure to weather and road grime can cause the rubber straps may get stuck. But they only need a little peeking from the side rails.
To peel, hold the end of the stuck strap and move your hand towards the center of the roof surface. Once they all detach, you are good to lift the bars.
Step 8: Lift the Bars Straight Up
How to remove Thule roof bars from the rails is simple.
First, ensure the ladder or the crate you stand on is stable to support your body because you will be using both hands.
Once everything is all right, hold the bar at the center and lift it straight up. Then, place it on the roof and proceed to the second bar.
Afterward, lock the end caps and secure the bars in a bag for storage.
Step 9: Clean the Residue Build Up
The areas of the side rail that the straps are attached usually remain with residue after unlocking. Use mild detergent and a soft clean cloth to clean.
Afterward, rinse the rail and dry it using a microfiber towel. You can do waxing with hybrid wax to keep the vehicle neat if the paint seems dull.
How to Unlock Thule Roof Rack Without key
Most Thule recreation products come with integrated locks. Usually, they are removable lock cylinders. As such, you unlock them by inserting the key and removing the whole cylinder.
Unfortunately, you may have difficulty removing your items from the roof if you misplace the key. To help you, this article will share tips on how to unlock Thule roof rack without key.
However, unlocking Thule roof rack without key is a bit risky because you may damage the plastic edges that hold the removable lock cylinder.
So, how should you carry out the process? Ideally, you can do it like a pro if you have a power drill. But you will have to replace the lock since it won’t be functional anymore.
Thankfully, the power drill unlocking method doesn’t damage the crossbars. So, you don’t have to purchase the whole roof rack, which is more expensive than replacing a lock cylinder.
With that said, read on to learn how to unlock Thule roof rack without key.
Detailed Explanation of How Thule Roof Racks Work
Thule produces the most popular and unique brands of roof bars used in modern cars. They are both designed for hauling cargo and aesthetic purposes.
Nevertheless, Thule roof racks are made for adventurous drivers. Their looks are amazing, especially on high-performance cars.
Like other brands, Thule roof bars are secured on the rooftop. And you can carry various items like;
- Bicycles
- Skis and snowboards
- Canoes
- Tents
- Car covers, etc
Needless to say, you may rarely experience Thule lock problems. Most cases reported are about key misplacements.
Thankfully if you visit any Thule dealer after losing your key, you can get a master key to unlock your roof bar. Afterward, you can order another key from Thule if you send them the key number.
How to find Thule key number is simple. You read the code around the cylinder and send them for replacement. Soon, you will receive your duplicate key.
However, if you face an emergency, below is an explanation of opening Thule without a key.
How to Unlock Thule Roof Rack Without key
Once you have lost the keys to your Thule roof bars, there is little you can do rather than drill the lock.
Let’s dive in and learn how to carry out the procedure;
Step 1: Assemble your equipment.
You need a power driller and Thule barrels for replacement. Note that once you drill the cylinder, it cannot be functional anymore.
Greenworks 24V cordless drill will get the job done. It’s packed with all the necessary metal bits to match the lock cylinder size.
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Secondly, you need lock barrels and keys because you would want to replace the lock for security.
Read: How to stop wind noise from ladder rack
Step 2: Properly set the drill on the lock barrel
Set the drill at the central part of the lock barrel. In simple, direct it to the key slot.
Note that when the bar is locked, the slot is vertical. So, it will be easier for you at this point to direct the drill at the center.
Ideally, use a ladder or a small stool if the bars are higher than your hand can comfortably work on them.
Step 3: Drill Straight
Drill the lock barrel by moving the power driller straight and carefully to avoid damaging the surrounding plastic edges.
Whenever you mess with the edges, you risk purchasing new roof bars.
Step 4: Unlock and remove the cylinder
Once the drill has reached the end, remove it and insert a screwdriver to tamper with the lock.
Then, remove the cylinder and ply out the end cap if you plan to remove the whole roof rack.
On the other hand, if you lost the keys to your upper lockable bar for your skis, the procedure is the same as unlocking the whole roof rack from the rails.
Step 5: Install the new lock
Open the new locks and install them according to the user manual. Test your locks to confirm they are effective as the previous ones.
Secondly, you need lock barrels and keys because you would want to replace the lock for security.
Step 2: Properly set the drill on the lock barrel
Set the drill at the central part of the lock barrel. In simple, direct it to the key slot.
Note that when the bar is locked, the slot is vertical. So, it will be easier for you at this point to direct the drill at the center.
Ideally, use a ladder or a small stool if the bars are higher than your hand can comfortably work on them.
Step 3: Drill Straight
Drill the lock barrel by moving the power driller straight and carefully to avoid damaging the surrounding plastic edges.
Whenever you mess with the edges, you risk purchasing new roof bars.
Read: Ski roof rack
Step 4: Unlock and remove the cylinder
Once the drill has reached the end, remove it and insert a screwdriver to tamper with the lock.
Then, remove the cylinder and ply out the end cap if you plan to remove the whole roof rack.
On the other hand, if you lost the keys to your upper lockable bar for your skis, the procedure is the same as unlocking the whole roof rack from the rails.
Step 5: Install the new lock
Open the new locks and install them according to the user manual. Test your locks to confirm they are effective as the previous ones.
How Should I Choose My Thule Roof Bars?
There are a few factors to consider before purchasing your Thule roof racks. The main factor is the type of your car’s roof.
- Rooftops with raised side rails
Raised side rails are compatible with a wider variety of roof bars. They have spaces between their feet hence becoming easier to install various roof racks.
- Rooftop with rails sitting on their surface
They require more specialized equipment because there are no gaps to allow easy mounting of the bars.
Aeroblade edges are very compatible with these rails. However, if you find trouble dealing with them, you can swap your roof with raised rails.
On the other hand, some products may have a complete set of items you need for installation. But for others, you may have to purchase some items separately.
Read: Queen mattress on roof rack
Where to Purchase Thule Products
You can order Thule products directly on Thule or visit the nearest Thule dealers. To find dealers, use Thule dealer locator.
Luckily, most dealers have social media platforms you can use to order the products.
Also, websites like amazon.com have amazing Thule products, and their shipping services are excellent.
FAQs on Removing a Thule Roof Rack
How Do You Remove a Thule End Cap?
Some Thule end caps have a small lever underneath that you pull outward using one finger to remove. For others, you will have to insert a screwdriver on their edges and ply them out.
How Do You Remove a Thule Hullavator?
First, retract your arms on top crossbars. Then, unlock the swing arm, tip it up, and pull out. Finally, yank out the pin to detach it and lift the bar with your free hand.
How Do I Remove Thule SnowPack?
Unlock the carrier feet first and then turn the tensioning knob counterclockwise. After that, loosen the straps and pull the free ends from each foot.
How Do You Unlock a Thule Ski Rack?
Insert the locking key (one of the keys with teeth) into the key slot and turn it counterclockwise. The mechanism should unlock the bars, and you will easily remove the skis.
What If I Lost My Thule Key?
If you lost your Thule key, you can visit Thule dealers and get a master key to open it. The other option is reading the key number and ordering another key directly from Thule.
Can You Get Thule Keys Cut?
You might face problems if you try to cut generic Thule keys. The best step is to order keys directly from Thule at a small cost, and you will be safe.
How Do I Remove a Thule Roof Rack Lock?
Unlock the mechanism with a locking key by inserting it into the slot. Then, make a counterclockwise turn, and the mechanism will unlock.
If you have other types of roof racks, you can learn their locking and unlocking mechanisms. But how to remove a Thule roof rack remains one of the most straightforward procedures.