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Also available in the Thule 480R Rapid Traverse version.
Behold the revolutionary new Thule 480 Traverse roof rack system. The ultimate multi-purpose base rack solution for cars and pickup truck cabs that have smooth, naked rooftops with no rain gutters, no factory side rails, no factory racks etc. The Thule 480 Traverse is the result of extensive engineering and testing by Thule Racks, delivering the strongest hold, safest fit and easiest installation for total roof rack peace of mind. Replaces the Thule 400XT Aero car rack system with a host of new features and benefits. The Thule 480 Foot Pack includes 50% fewer parts and requires half the time to install than any competitors' models. Optionally lockable outer cover features bold, contemporary styling and hides and protects the interior of each Foot while blending flawlessly with any roofline for a truly integrated appearance. We highly recommend a four pack of Thule Locks (not included; see accessory add-ons below) to lock the rack to vehicle.
The Thule 480 Traverse complete roof rack system includes all 3 components that are necessary for installing a general-purpose base rack on your vehicle's roof top, providing the platform that will allow you to then connect roof mount gear carriers that carry your gear and equipment:
- Four (4) Thule 480 Traverse Feet.
- Four (4) Thule Traverse Fit Kit clips (specific to your vehicle; see ordering notes below).
- Two (2) Thule square load bars (bar end caps included).
Installation is a breeze thanks to these included patented features: AccuTight Tightening Tool - Automatically indicates when the car rack is safely and properly attached to vehicle, assuring the safest install on all styles of vehicles; MaxClamp Technology - Dramatically greater vehicle grip over any competitors' Foot Pack, Towers, Stays etc.; EZ Assemble Design - 50% fewer parts and requires half the time to install; EasyClick Traverse Fit Kit Clips - Attach to each 480 Traverse Foot without tools or fasteners; OneTouch Bar Lock - separates Foot positioning from rack mounting, set it once and done.
Protective surfaces on rack prevent shifting and protect vehicle's paint. No tools required for assembly; easy-to-follow installation instructions manual included. Can be locked to the car rooftop using a 4-pack of Thule Racks One Key System lock cylinders (not included; see accessory add-ons below). Thule Racks Lifetime Warranty!
SPECIAL NOTE: Short roof lined cars, minivans & pickup trucks including 2-door models and vehicles with dramatically curved rooftops must check the Thule Racks automated fit guide (see below) to determine if your car or pickup truck requires the additional Thule 487 Traverse Short Roof Adapter component (sold separately; see accessory add-ons below).
» Thule 480 Traverse Instructions Manual
Thule 480 Traverse Roof Rack System Resource Wall
Product Reviews
Read the reviews below to find out what other customers are saying about the Thule Traverse 480 roof rack system.
Contribute Your Review of the Thule Traverse Car Rack |
Great Rack and Super Easy Installation!
this Thule 480 Traverse Review by Bek
vehicle year/make/model: 2005 Toyota Prius
item(s) transported: Kayaks, bikes, miscellaneous sporting goods
This rack works great on my Toyota Prius and holds two 16' kayaks that weigh 120 pounds combined just fine. The system is actually so easy to take on and off--with four allen keys that remain inside each foot to loosen and tighten them--that I just remove the whole system when it's not in use and leave it in my trunk. The bases are extremely sturdy and lock down with ease. Although it's easier to take on and off with two people, I've done it myself and just made some discreet marks on the door jambs so that I don't have to measure the distance each time I replace the rack. The Feet are well padded and haven't made a single mark on my car. A few tips, though. If you're planning to leave the rack on all the time, spring for the fairing. These bars can cause some noise at even lower speeds, especially if you live in a windy area. Also, I bought the 50" load bars that ORS recommended, which don't stick out over the sides of the car (so you won't hit your head on them) but they tend to be a little short when setting two kayaks side by side--though they still fit fine. I would suggest going with the longer 58" bars if carrying 2 kayaks side by side. I highly recommend this product to others!
Great Product / Great Look
this Thule 480 Traverse Review by Andrea
vehicle year/make/model: 2003 Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck
item(s) transported: canoes
I ordered the rack system for my husbands truck and he was able to install the system and found it fairly easy to do. I also ordered the fairing b/c i think it makes the overall system look better and sportier. I am overall happy with my purchase, although I cannot compare it to the Yakima system b/c I have never owned one but many canoeing enthusists tell me the Thule system is better than Yakima.
Very easy to install and very sturdy!
this Thule 480 Traverse Review by Derek
vehicle year/make/model: 2005 Honda Accord
item(s) transported: kayak
Installing this roof rack system was a snap! I was worried that I wouldn't be able to do it by myself, but I was very pleased with how easily it all went together. I also use the Thule Hull-a-port Pro for carrying my kayak, and I am very pleased with how stable everything is! I never have to worry about transporting my kayak again.
Product Discussion
Discuss the Thule 480 Traverse roofrack system. Use the form below to fire away with your questions, answers and general comments about this product. |
Shane asks - I'm trying to install this system on my Saab 9-2x but having issues. Specifically, the Fit Kit clip is not long enough to reach from the 480 Foot to the correct position on the door well. Any help?
ORS Racks Direct crew answers - Check out this photo link of the Thule 480 Traverse Foot troubleshoot to solve your problem. Image A depicts grey screw on the Thule 480 Traverse Foot in the fully tightened position and clip positioned at highest point (the Fit Kit attaches to the clip). If you find that the Fit Kit does not reach down far enough to be
positioned correctly on your doorwell, simply fully loosen the grey screw and the clip will lower to its lowest position as depicted in image B. You can then attach the Fit Kit to the clip in this lowest position, allowing the
Fit Kit to be properly positioned on the doorwell.
Product Videos
Product videos coming soon.
Customer Installation Pictures
Proud current customer with ORS Racks Direct? |
Accessories
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Thule Locks for Car Racks Including Bike Ski Snowboard Kayak Canoe Locks | | Thule Fairings - Roof Fairings for Thule Car Racks |
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2010 Thule 487 Traverse Short Roof Adapter Kit - Component for Use With the 480 Traverse / 480R Rapid Traverse Roof Racks | | Thule Roof Rack Accessories - 2010 Thule 232 Step Up Wheel Step |
Thule Spare Parts & Replacement Parts for All Thule Racks |
ORDERING NOTES
To ensure you receive the correct load bars length & proper Thule Traverse Fit Kit brackets to work with the 480 Traverse Foot Pack on your specific vehicle, in our "order check out" area we will get all your vehicle year/make/model info.
Thule Racks recommended load bar length will be provided unless otherwise specified when adding system to your cart.
CLICK HERE to view the load bar size chart.
Four pack of Thule Racks locks & keys (not included; see accessory add-ons above) is recommended for locking rack to vehicle.
Also available in the Thule 480R Rapid Traverse version.
QUICK ORDERING SOLUTION
Alternatively, we suggest using our easy Thule Racks automated fit guide to quickly determine & order the correct multi-purpose base roof rack system and/or gear carrier attachments for your specific vehicle year/make/model:
*please note: Thule Racks fit guide does not always show all compatible options. Please contact us with any additional compatibility questions.
