[AlexX3]

Hi everyone -
New to the BMW world. I just got a 2014 X3. I want to install a roof rack, but my X3 doesn't have the rails.

What are the solutions out there? I want to be able to carry a kayak and paddle board. Not necessarily together.

I've searched, but haven't found real solutions. Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks!

[Radioactive]

This is what I have been eyeing.....http://www.rhinorack.com/

Several different options for F25 mounts/roof bars. Mix and match attachments and accessories. Just enter your car type.

For the water-http://www.rhinorack.com/en-us/products/water

[AlexX3]

Thanks. All those need the rails though. Have you found a rack that doesn't need the rails? or better yet, where can I find the rails?

[Radioactive]

Go to the bottom of their home page and hit the "BMW" symbol. This will take you through your model and then give you a choice if the vehicle has OEM rails or not. Hit the "if not" choice. Then it will show you the mounts that will work without OEM rails. Here I did it for you http://www.rhinorack.com/en-us/fit-m...v-f25-11-to-16 The Vortex 2500, Heavy Duty and Euro 2500. Go to racks you need and see what style bar is required.

From the description of HD 2500

"Adaptable, easy to use, strong and light are the key features of the Rhino-Rack Heavy Duty 2500. You can install the HD 2500 at home and with the specific vehicle fitment included in the documents section; it will take you less than 30 minutes. This roof rack is designed to fit bare roof vehicles by utilising a removable moulded pad mount and clamp system. On top of that the 2500 leg is Rhino-Rack's HD bar, the strongest crossbar that's also compatible with Rhino-Rack accessories so whether you're a traveller, cyclist, surfer, tradesperson or outdoorsy type - the Heavy Duty 2500 roof rack system has you covered."

[Lotus99]

Try Thule too. They have a car fit guide, that walks you thru the options your car has.

[Radioactive]

Originally Posted by Lotus99

Try Thule too. They have a car fit guide, that walks you thru the options your car has.

As far as can tell both Thule and Yakima require OEM roof rails, unless the Yakima Q tower leg/mount worked. Rhino Racks is the only company that I have found that does not require OEM rails and offers comparable accessories for the racks. There are universal options but they run a strap through the interior.

Could always install BMW rails. I think somebody here did it a couple of years ago. It's quite a bit of work removing panels and headliner. Post probably could be found easier by searching for "headliner" rather than "roof rails".

[Lotus99]

Bummer... Might as well go hitch then. Not that big of a deal. I myself just got a Curt Hitch installed, $300 all in (it's not wired), and it can take a 2" receiver, so your options are limitless.

[3002 tii]

Installing roof rails on 2014+ isn't nearly as time consuming as the 2011-13 models. I purposely didn't want roof rails as I felt the chrome clashed with the black paint. If anything I might install the gloss black rails down the road.