Removing This Common Car Accessory Could Save You Money at the Pump

A widely-used car accessory that many drivers consider essential is actually having a significant negative impact on fuel economy, according to automotive engineers and EPA testing data — and removing it could save drivers hundreds of dollars per year.

Roof racks, particularly those left mounted when not in use, create aerodynamic drag that reduces fuel efficiency by 5 to 25 percent depending on the vehicle and rack design. At current gas prices, that translates to an additional $200 to $800 in annual fuel costs for the average driver.

The impact is most pronounced at highway speeds, where aerodynamic drag becomes the dominant factor in fuel consumption. A roof rack that sits empty most of the time is essentially a permanent tax on every gallon of gas you buy.

Automakers have noted the issue in owner's manuals for years, recommending removal when not in use, but most drivers never read that guidance. The racks have become so common that their fuel penalty is essentially invisible — people don't realize they're paying extra for an accessory they're not using.

For drivers who need roof racks periodically — for bikes, skis, or cargo boxes — quick-release mounting systems make it practical to remove the rack between uses. The fuel savings alone can pay for the upgrade within a year.

What This Means For You: If you have a roof rack you're not actively using, take it off. It's one of the easiest ways to improve your gas mileage without spending a dime. The savings add up faster than you'd think — especially if you do a lot of highway driving.