I have been researching a roof rack and looking at my car, and I have 2 questions I hope someone knows the answer to.

1. Does any one know what the rubber strip is on the roof that runs the length of the car on both sides?


2. Can a roof rack be attached to this strip/groove?

Thanks for the help in advance.
~Tony

 

The roof of the car has channels in it to provide strength and rigidity. The rubber strip covers the channels. Every Honda that I have owned has this (my Fit is my 10th Honda vehicle.)

You wouldn't want to do that. The channel has material in it (think of caulking around a bath tub) that provides for water resistance since it would be difficult to paint into a channel like that. On some older Honda (~20 years ago) this material would crack from hardening/age and allow water to seep into the interior. Probably not a good place to be trying to secure a roof rack.

 

The rubber strip like ^^^ said is just a rain gutter, the strip is just to finnish it.

Most aftermarket roof racks ive seen will clamp onto the top edge of the door frame.

 

The channels running lengthwise on the roof are weld seams, also add rigidity to the roof, and the black rubber/plastic strip is a seal to prevent corrosion of the seam. Detroit trucks & SUV's have the same seams and seals, though some Detroit seal strips are painted over.

 

The strip covers a weld or attachment of some kind. No, you can't attach a roof rack to it. At this site, do a search for Roof Rack Installation Instructions to read my piece.