2017 Edge w/Vista Roof -- Trying to add roof side rails / rack

[Exit37]

I just bought a 2017 Edge with the Panoramic Vista Roof.. I would like to add a Thule roof rack system that was recommended as having more than enough clearance for the Ford Edge Vista roof to open and slide back easily with plenty of room.. The problem is that my roof is naked, no side rails at all.. I know I can attach one of those Yakima systems that clips onto the roof and door opening, but I'm worried about that solution scratching the paint and impacting the fit of the door. Not to mention it just looks ugly and is less functional and streamlined compared to a system with permanent side rails.

 

So has anyone had any luck installing the OEM flush side rails on a 2017 Edge with vista roof (or any 2015 or newer Edge with vista roof)? Or are there third-party side rail options that can be installed? And if there are, do these require drilling the roof (shudder...) or not?

 

I've been calling around to three different dealerships. One said yes it can be done but they don't do it. Another said I'm out of luck. And the third said they weren't sure and would get back to me...

 

If anyone has had any luck with this I would love to hear from you.. Thanks

 

[Gadgetjq]

9 hours ago, Exit37 said:

So has anyone had any luck installing the OEM flush side rails on a 2017 Edge with vista roof (or any 2015 or newer Edge with vista roof)?

I don't know the answer to your question but suggest you look in the Cargo, Hauling, Roof Rack section of the forum.  You're likely to find an answer there: https://www.fordedgeforum.com/forum/31-cargo-hauling-roof-racks-towing/

 

[larcha]

I have a similar question.  I don't have the Vista roof but I don't have the rails either.  I checked the Ford web site and everything requires rails.  I asked my local Ford dealer and they said rails couldn't be added.  Then they looked up the body shop rates and it was $300+ per rail!  Any suggestions?