Driving with Thule roof bars can sometimes lead to an annoying whistling noise caused by wind turbulence. There are several effective strategies to minimize or eliminate this issue. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to stop Thule roof bars from whistling, drawing from various reliable sources and practical user experiences.
Understanding the Cause of Whistling
Wind noise from roof bars primarily occurs due to aerodynamic disturbances. When air flows over and around the crossbars, it creates turbulence that results in a whistling sound. This noise can be exacerbated by high speeds, gaps in the installation, or the type of crossbars used. Addressing these factors is crucial for reducing noise.
Installation and Positioning Tips
Proper installation and positioning of your Thule roof bars can significantly reduce wind noise. Here are some tips:
- Front Bar Placement: Position the front bar where the roof starts to curve downward. Placing it too far forward can catch more wind, increasing noise.
- Rear Bar Placement: The rear bar should be positioned where the roof is flattest to reduce wind resistance.
- Spacing Between Crossbars: Ensure even spacing between the crossbars. This helps in distributing the load effectively and minimizes pockets that catch wind.
Ensuring all components are securely tightened and using rubber pads can also help dampen vibrations and reduce noise.
Aerodynamic Crossbars
Switching to aerodynamic crossbars can greatly reduce wind noise. Thule offers several options, such as the Wingbar Evo, which have an aircraft-like cross-section designed to deflect airflow and minimize turbulence. These crossbars are more expensive but can save you from needing additional noise-reducing accessories.
DIY Remedies
For those looking for quick and cost-effective solutions, here are some DIY methods:
- Bungee Cord: Wrap a bungee cord tightly around the crossbars in a spiral pattern. This breaks up the airflow and reduces whistling. Make sure the cord is secure to prevent it from flapping (source: mycargoracks.com).
- Rubber Strips: Apply rubber strips to fill gaps and cushion the bars. This can help absorb sound and prevent air from passing through small openings (source: rackadvisor.org).
- Stuffing Crossbars: Stuffing the crossbars with padding materials can change the airflow and reduce noise, though this may not be as effective at higher speeds (source: bryansgarage.com).
Wind Fairings
Installing a wind fairing is one of the most effective ways to reduce wind noise. A wind fairing deflects the airflow over the crossbars, minimizing turbulence and the resulting noise. While more expensive, wind fairings are highly effective and can be a worthwhile investment for frequent roof rack users (source: racktraveler.com).
Additional Tips
- Remove the Roof Rack: If you don’t use your roof rack frequently, consider removing it when not in use. This will eliminate the wind noise entirely (source: rackadvisor.org).
- Driving Habits: Reducing your speed can also help minimize wind noise. The faster you drive, the more pronounced the wind noise becomes (source: bryansgarage.com).
Conclusion
By following these tips and using a combination of proper installation, aerodynamic products, DIY remedies, and wind fairings, you can effectively reduce or eliminate the whistling noise from your Thule roof bars. Whether you choose a quick fix like wrapping a bungee cord or investing in a high-quality wind fairing, addressing the aerodynamic factors at play will lead to a quieter and more enjoyable driving experience.