The Tesla Model 3 is a beautifully engineered machine — sleek lines, minimalist design, and that iconic glass roof stretching front to back. But the very design that makes the Model 3 beautiful also makes it demanding: the roof rack must be engineered specifically for the car, or it simply isn’t safe.

This guide walks you through exactly what Model 3 owners and renters need to know, without the jargon or drama. Just the practical truth: the safest, smartest choice is the genuine Tesla OEM roof rack, and here’s how to make sure you’re getting the real thing.

Why the Model 3 Needs a Purpose-Built Roof Rack

The Model 3 roof isn’t just a design statement — it’s a structural component. The load paths, clamp locations, and roof curvature all play a role in stability. Unlike metal-roofed vehicles, the Model 3 doesn’t forgive guesswork.

OEM racks are engineered specifically for:

• the contour of the Model 3’s panoramic glass
• controlled clamp compression
• exact torque values
• even load distribution across the mounting points
• low aerodynamic drag

Aftermarket systems simply try to replicate these tolerances, and “close enough” isn’t good enough when the entire system clamps onto glass.

The Official Tesla Model 3 OEM Roof Rack Part Number

If you want to confirm a rack is genuine, the manual confirms the correct Tesla-issued part number. For example:

1498781-00-H

(Earlier/later revisions may exist such as 1498781-00-C/D/F/G.)

This is the only number you should rely on when verifying OEM authenticity.

Why You Won’t Find That Number on the Rack Itself

Tesla does not stamp or engrave part numbers onto:

• crossbars
• towers
• clamps

This means:

• renters cannot verify OEM by inspecting the hardware
• documentation becomes essential
• many online listings are inaccurate or incomplete

This is normal and this guide helps you navigate it.

How to Check That a Model 3 Roof Rack Is Genuine

Before renting a rack (or listing your own), you can verify authenticity in a few ways.

Ask the owner for:

A photo of the Tesla roof rack manual

Tesla receipt/order confirmation

Image of OEM-style tapered towers

Packaging photo (if kept)

You’ll rarely encounter issues once you stick to verified OEM equipment, but transparency is key and most Model 3 owners are more than happy to provide proof.

Why Aftermarket Roof Racks can be a problem on a Model 3

Here’s what we’ve seen from community reports, owner groups:

• Pressure points that don’t match the Model 3’s roof
• Clamps that shift slightly on longer journeys
• Increased wind noise
• Higher drag and reduced efficiency
• Stress cracks in the glass (yes, really)
• Tesla refusing warranty claims when aftermarket accessories were involved

With a glass roof, even a small misalignment can create a big problem.

That’s why serious Model 3 owners treat OEM as the baseline standard.

For a deeper dive, see our complete Tesla roof rack guide.

Model 3 OEM Roof Rack Performance: What to Expect

Load Capacity

Certified for 68kg dynamic load, tested under Tesla’s vibration and wind simulations. To note, the Model Y has different load ratings. See our Model Y roof rack guide.

Noise Behaviour

Quiet, controlled airflow thanks to the wing-shaped bar design.

Energy Efficiency

Drag impact sits around 1%, which is impressively low for a roof-mounted setup.

Security

OEM systems lock directly into Tesla’s engineered channels, giving them extremely stable hold over long distances.

Renting a Tesla Model 3 Roof Rack on RentMyRoofbox

Here’s how to choose a trustworthy listing:

✔ Look for “OEM Verified”

✔ Photos of the manual

✔ Clear mention of OEM status

✔ Full kit included (towers, bars, keys, manual)

If anything seems unclear, message the lister, Tesla owners are meticulous, and most reply quickly with proof.

Final Word for Model 3 Owners

The Model 3 rewards precision. The right rack protects your glass roof, your warranty, your efficiency, and your peace of mind and OEM is the only system engineered specifically for the job.

If you’re renting, choose a verified listing.

If you’re listing, show your authenticity proudly.

And if you’re planning a trip? Your Model 3 will thank you for choosing genuine Tesla engineering.

Browse Model 3 OEM roof racks near you

Or list your own genuine rack and start earning

Your next adventure deserves to start right.