Our "new" '04 RX has the dreaded broken crossbar lock. They don't want to budge, and I'm sure at this point, Lexus isn't going to replace them since the car is 6 years old.

I would be happy to remove them, but don't want to do any damage, since we have a "bumper to bumper" warranty with our car dealer that sold it to us, and I may also want to replace them if needed.

Is there a good way to get them off by somehow disengaging the locking mechanism in another manner? I searched and found the link on removing the back trim piece, and sliding them off the end, just need to get them to point they will slide.

Thanks!

 

Chances are the tabs aren't going to release in order for you to slide the crossbars. That happened to me and the dealership replaced the crossbars for me (2007 RX350).

 

if you do a search on here you will find part numbers and method on removing the entire roof rack, crossbars runners and all.

the new part numbers are for filling in the gap left where the racks were.

this way you can forget about sliding them and remove them completely, much better look, and it will let you **** with the roof racks on the floor where you wont damage the paint

 

I didn't touched the crossbars in 6 years but decided one day I wanted them off. I recall I lifted the tab and inserted a screwdriver to push the release. It took a few attempts to find the right place. After 20 minutes, they were off. I'd advise having someone help so the crossbar can be easily slid down the rails.