How to remove roof rails to check for rust underneath

[jared01]

Hello,

I would like to undo and remove the roof rails to check for any possible rust underneath before warranty runs out.

It looks like I may need a star tool to unscrew the plastic part first.

Is this correct. Photo attached of screw I think may need removal first.

[stevemc181]

Hello,

I would like to undo and remove the roof rails to check for any possible rust underneath before warranty runs out.

It looks like I may need a star tool to unscrew the plastic part first.

Is this correct. Photo attached of screw I think may need removal first.

You'll need to start by removing the interior roof lining to get access to the roof rail bolts. Not a job for the feint hearted.

[twisted32]

It depends on how far you want to pull it all apart. If you want to get down to the rain channels then yes you need to get under the roof lining at each of the six mounting points to access the nuts.
However, the rail ends (front and back) are bolted to a sandwich plate, which is in turn bolted through the roof. If you take the plastic covers off the front and rear points (on the inside, they will just pop off with some assistance) you will see two M6 bolts that hold the rail to the sandwich plate. If you undo these and the star drive screw you mentioned, you may be able to slide the plastic end piece off to see further (I have not removed the end piece from the rail, so not 100% sure it will just slide out). You will however still have the sandwich plate and the rubber obscuring your view, but you might have more access.
Note the centre mount is only 1 M6 stud/nut through the roof, so this will not work there.
Sorry I don't have any pictures, I only just put mine back together on Sunday....

[Russell T]

These pics might help from my left rear mount on NW