2013 Dodge Durango Owner Manual - Page 306

304 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE CAUTION! • To prevent damage to the roof of your vehicle, DO NOT carry any loads on the roof rack without the crossbars deployed. The load should be secured and placed on top of the crossbars, not directly on the roof. If it is necessary to place the load on the roof, place a blanket or other protective layer between the load and the roof surface. • To avoid damage to the roof rack and vehicle, do not exceed the maximum roof rack load capacity of 150 lb (68 kg). Always distribute heavy loads as evenly as possible and secure the load appropriately. (Continued) CAUTION! (Continued) • Load should always be secured to cross bars first, with tie down loops used as additional securing points if needed. Tie loops are intended as supplementary tie down points only. Do not use ratcheting mechanisms with the tie loops. Check the straps and thumbwheels frequently to be sure that the load remains securely attached. • Long loads that extend over the windshield, such as wood panels or surfboards, or loads with large frontal area should be secured to both the front and rear of the vehicle. • Travel at reduced speeds and turn corners carefully when carrying large or heavy loads on the roof rack. Wind forces, due to natural causes or nearby truck traffic, can add sudden upward lift to a load. This is especially true on large flat loads and may result in damage to the cargo or your vehicle.