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How to Pay for All-Weather Roof Crossbars

How to · Auto

How to Pay for All-Weather Roof Crossbars

Upgrade your car gear for spring road trips without paying interest up front.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $250 before anything else
Across the 0% window $13.89/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $250 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

Taking your car on real trips means buying gear that gets beaten up by rain, dust, and heavy loads. Gear like crossbars usually sees its lowest prices in early spring when retailers clearance last year's stock before summer road trip season hits.

Negotiating the price of accessories works just like buying the car itself. Lock in your discount on the gear first, then figure out how to stretch out the payment without adding interest fees to the final bill.

Remember that an intro window is a fixed deadline, not free money. If you still have a balance on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card after the 18 months end, regular interest charges kick in on whatever amount is left.

The steps

  1. 01

    Target early spring sales

    Retailers drop prices on rack systems right before new outdoor gear lines hit shelves in late spring. Compare factory crossbars against major aftermarket brands to find the right weight rating for your vehicle.

  2. 02

    Check your roof style

    Fixed points, flush rails, and raised rails all require different foot packs. Buying the wrong style means paying return shipping or risking gear flying off on the highway.

  3. 03

    Negotiate before paying

    Ask auto parts stores or local dealerships if they price-match online catalog prices for the exact part number. Dealers often mark up accessories, but they will drop the price if you show proof.

  4. 04

    Use a interest-free window

    The Citi Simplicity® Credit Card offers 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. Spreading a $250 set of crossbars across that timeline comes out to $13.89 per month with zero interest.

  5. 05

    Install them in your driveway

    Skip dealership labor fees by grabbing a basic wrench and mounting the crossbars yourself. Check the torque specs in the manual so you do not crush your door seals or strip the bolts.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

Are aftermarket roof crossbars as good as factory ones?

Yes, top aftermarket brands often match or exceed factory weight limits. Just make sure the fit kit is designed specifically for your vehicle's make and model year.

When is the best time to buy car roof racks?

Early spring prep season is usually best. Stores clear out inventory before summer travel demand pushes prices back up to full retail.

Can I install roof crossbars by myself?

Almost every crossbar set installs in under an hour with simple hand tools. Following the included torque instructions keeps your car paint and roof rails safe.

Does 0% interest mean the crossbars are free?

No, 0% interest just means you are not charged extra fees during the promo period. You still have to pay back the full $250 purchase price before the 18 months end.