MTBAudi

A HA - A tolerable solution to my rack noise complaints! I installed some new 24" surfboard pads (black, fade resistant with white writing, of course) on my crossbars and about 80% of the howling and whistling disappeared. It is now on par with any rack on any car. I am much, much happier! I got the pads at Stewart surfboards in San Clemente, but I am sure they are available with other logos. Yay.

MTBAudi

Update to Noise Issue.

I did a road trip with a fully loaded cargo box on the top. I was worried that the Electronic Stability Control Program would be a nuisance and rob me of power. NO PROBLEM!!! The ESP (Or is it ESC?) never blinked, I had tons of traction and lots of power, even though I was between 5,000 and 10,000+ ft. of altitude. Blasted up Vail pass at 65+ MPH in 4" of fresh snow on top of snowpack (safely) passing everything else on the road, with power to spare. AND, once the box was on, the rack no longer whistled and howled - it was just the wind rush noise that was typical of any vehicle with a box on it.

BTW, 4th gear is awesome for mountain driving in challenging conditions. Easy revving and acceleration from 50 to 80+mph, with deceleration assistance by letting off the throttle. Right in the 3000-5000rpm range. Wheeee!

lostemple

Would you please post pics of your solution? Thank you in advance.