Roof Racks / Cargo Boxes

Yakima roof racks and cargo boxes are highly repairable with standard tools and good parts availability, featuring a tool-free mounting system that's designed for repeated assembly/disassembly.

• •Parts Access: Users report long-term ownership (10+ years) with parts like locks, hinges, and mounting hardware being replaceable when needed.
• •Common Repairs: The most frequent fix involves realigning hinges that pop out when both sides are unlatched simultaneously, requiring careful manipulation but no special tools.
• •Manufacturer Support: Backed by a lifetime warranty for original owners, though Yakima states some issues like water intrusion may not be covered as boxes are water-resistant, not waterproof.

Bottom line: These are designed to be serviced and maintained long-term with simple tools, though the hinges and locking mechanism can be finicky to repair if they get out of alignment.

The SkyBox earns solid marks as a genuine workhorse that can take serious abuse. Multiple users report years of hard use through Alaska trips, snowstorms, and thousands of highway miles with the box still looking and working like new. The rigid construction with lid stiffeners prevents flexing at speed, while the tool-free mounting system encourages proper removal and storage between trips.

• •Built tough: Users describe driving through 2 feet of snow and downpours for months with contents staying dry, even when gear in the truck bed got soaked
• •Weak spots exist: The persnicketty lid requires perfect alignment to latch properly, and the dual hinges can pop out if you accidentally unlatch both sides at once
• •Water resistant, not waterproof: While most stay dry, some users report water intrusion when parked in heavy rain - Yakima admits this limitation

Bottom line: Finally, a cargo box built to last decades with proper care. Just don't expect submarine-level waterproofing or flawless latches.

Yakima offers a comprehensive lifetime limited warranty for the original purchaser when the product is used for personal, household purposes. The warranty coverage is solid but has typical exclusions.

• •Coverage: Defects in materials and workmanship including cracks, seam tears, zipper malfunctions, and internal mechanism failures during normal use.
• •Process: Requires proof of purchase from an authorized dealer. Yakima will repair, replace, or refund based on their inspection.
• •Limitations: Does not cover normal wear and tear, accidental damage, theft, negligence, commercial use, or second-hand purchases. Regional variations exist (5-year limited warranty outside US).

Bottom line: Yakima's lifetime warranty has been consistently honored according to user reviews, offering excellent long-term protection for the original purchaser, though with standard industry exclusions and the requirement for proof of purchase.

Yakima roof carriers have an exceptional reputation within the BIFL community, consistently praised for their durability and longevity spanning 10+ years of regular use.

• •Durability: Users repeatedly describe their Yakima boxes as "bomb proof" and "totally worth the investment" after years of heavy use in extreme conditions.
• •User Experience: The dual-side opening feature is frequently called a "life changer" and the tool-free mounting system is praised as "genius," allowing 5-10 minute installation.
• •Common Criticisms: The high price point is acknowledged but accepted as the cost of quality, while some users report occasional issues with temperamental latches and minimal water intrusion during heavy rain.

Bottom line: Despite the premium price, Yakima carriers are considered one of the most reliable long-term investments for vehicle owners, with users regularly keeping and using them for a decade or more with minimal issues.