Yakima roof rack vs gas mileage

[c3c]

Quick question.... I have a Yakima roof rack with a shield. Seems like every time I put the rack on it feels like my gas mileage decreases. The rack is purely for show. Has anybody experienced this as well?

 

[PaulLR3]

I think the base roof rack may decrease mileage by 1 mpg or less.

But I can say that our big Yakima roof box decreases mileage by about 2-3 mpg. Of course when the roof box is on it is also loaded with kids, gear, dog, etc. With all that extra weight it drives better in sport mode which also hurts mpg.

 

[goinsurfin]

You will see a drop in mpg with a rack and/or box up top. Having a fairing actually helps reduce the buffering sound of air going under the bars and not so much with mpg. As an alternative to the fairing, Yakima offers a "wind jammer" that also helps to buffer sound. I've used both and find the fairing works a little better... hope that helps.