Author: Radomskyi Maksym VasyliovychInstalling roof rails on an Audi A3
Audi A3 2012–2020 is a compact car in which roof rails can serve two purposes at once: change the look and create a base for the later installation of crossbars or roof rack systems. In this project, a set of aluminum roof rails was installed on the vehicle.
For the job, we used the roof rail kit for Audi A3 2012–2020 consisting of two aluminum elements. The installation was carried out by our partners in Chernivtsi at the certified service center ZUBRYN AUTO STUDIO. The entire process took about two hours.
Why install roof rails on an Audi A3?
Roof rails are most often installed for two reasons. The first is practicality. They can be used as a base for crossbars, a roof box, bicycle mounts, or other cargo equipment.
The second reason is appearance. Longitudinal rails change the upper body line and make the car look visually more practical and versatile. This is especially noticeable on Sportback versions, where the rails naturally extend the roof silhouette.
This upgrade is suitable for owners who occasionally find the standard trunk capacity insufficient or need the ability to carry bulky gear.
Which roof rails were installed?
The vehicle was fitted with aluminum roof rails for Audi A3. The kit consists of two longitudinal elements that are mounted along the left and right sides of the roof.
The aluminum finish pairs well with Audi’s factory trim and does not look overly contrasting. The rails give the body a more finished look and can be appropriate both on a standard vehicle and on versions with additional exterior packages.
How does the roof rail installation work?
Before installation, it is necessary to correctly determine the position of both elements relative to the roof and make sure the kit matches the specific Audi A3 version.
The rails must be installed symmetrically, parallel to each other, and precisely follow the roof line. If one element is shifted, it is clearly noticeable when viewing the car from the front or rear.
During the work, it is also important to ensure secure fastening and proper seating of all mounting elements. Installation quality affects not only appearance but also the ability to use the rails later as a base for a roof rack system.
How long does the installation take?
In this project, installing roof rails on the Audi A3 took about 2 hours. This is a relatively quick upgrade that does not require the car to stay at the service center for multiple days.
After installation is completed, symmetry, fastening reliability, and the correct position of the rails relative to the body are checked.
Cost of the roof rails and installation
The price of the aluminum roof rail kit for Audi A3 2012–2020 was 4 059 UAH. The installation labor cost was 1 000 UAH.
The installation was performed in Chernivtsi at the certified partner service center ZUBRYN AUTO STUDIO.
What changes after installing roof rails?
After installation, the Audi A3 gets a more practical and finished look. The upper part of the body becomes more visually expressive, and the car itself is perceived as more versatile.
The main practical advantage is that the rails create a base for the future installation of crossbars and additional cargo solutions.
- ability to install crossbars;
- a base for a roof box or gear mounts;
- a more practical look for the car;
- a neat addition to the roof design;
- quick installation without major body tuning.
Who is this upgrade for?
Roof rails will be useful for Audi A3 owners who travel by car, carry sports equipment, or plan to use an additional roof rack.
It is also a good option for those who want to change the car’s appearance without installing a spoiler, body kit, or other more noticeable tuning elements.
In the case of the Audi A3, the rails look restrained and practical, so they fit well into the model’s factory design.
Result of installing roof rails on an Audi A3
As a result, the Audi A3 received a set of aluminum roof rails that complemented the car’s appearance and made the roof more functional.
The work was completed in about two hours, so this upgrade can be done without a long stay at the service center.
For the owner, it’s a simple way to both change the look of the Audi A3 and prepare the vehicle for using additional roof cargo systems.
