Rightline Gear Ace Car Top Carrier

Everything You Need to Know Before Purchasing This Versatile Cargo Carrier

The Rightline Gear Ace car top carrier is one of the most popular cargo carriers on the market, and for good reason. This spacious, rugged, and customizable carrier provides ample storage space for all your road trip gear and bulky items.

But is the Ace the right car top carrier for your needs? This comprehensive buying guide will walk you through everything you need to know before purchasing the Rightline Gear Ace, from its standout features to how it compares with other cargo carriers.

An Overview of the Rightline Gear Ace Car Top Carrier

The Rightline Gear Ace is a hard-shell rooftop cargo carrier that attaches to your existing roof racks or crossbars to provide 18 cubic feet of enclosed storage space. Built from UV-resistant thermoplastic, this cargo carrier is lightweight yet durable enough for off-road adventures.

The Ace comes equipped with several useful features:

• Large dual-side openings for easy loading and unloading
• Waterproof design to protect gear from the elements
• Expandable zippered sides to increase capacity when needed
• Locking security cables to deter theft
• Reflective piping for increased nighttime visibility
• Quick release mounting for simple on/off installation

With an aerodynamic shape and tapered front to enhance fuel efficiency, the Rightline Gear Ace is a versatile and protective car top carrier suitable for vehicles of all types.

Key Benefits and Features of the Rightline Gear Ace

Here are some of the biggest benefits and top features offered by the Ace cargo carrier:

• Spacious capacity – With 18 cubic feet of enclosed storage, the Ace provides ample space for luggage, camping gear, snowboards, and other bulky cargo. The expandable sides add even more volume when needed.
• Dual-sided opening – The Ace opens from both sides for convenient loading and unloading from either side of your vehicle. The zippers are lockable for security.
• Weatherproof protection – The Ace is made from rigid thermoplastic with waterproof welded seams to keep your gear dry inside. The lockable zipper tops provide further protection.
• Versatile mounting – The Ace can mount to most standard roof rack systems with universal quick-grip clamps. No tools are required for installation.
• Lightweight yet durable – Weighing just 56 pounds, the Ace won’t put excess strain on your roof. The impact-resistant shell withstands the rigors of off-road driving.
• Fuel efficient design – The tapered front profile cuts through the air to minimize drag and wind noise for better gas mileage.
• Nighttime visibility – Built-in reflective strips increase visibility of the cargo carrier in low-light conditions.
• Expandable capacity – Unzip the expandable sides to add an extra 8 cubic feet of storage space when you need more room.
• 1-year warranty – Rightline Gear provides a 1-year limited warranty for defects and workmanship issues.

Installing the Rightline Gear Ace Car Top Carrier

One of the Ace cargo carrier’s biggest selling points is how quick and easy it is to install onto your vehicle’s roof rack. Here is an overview of the simple installation process:

• Ensure roof racks are properly installed – The Ace requires a roof rack or crossbar system rated for at least 130 pounds.
• Position carrier on roof – Place the Ace centered on your roof racks. The inside pads should have full contact with the crossbars.
• Attach quick-grip clamps – The Ace comes with four easy turn-and-click clamps to attach to your roof rails without tools or hardware.
• Tighten clamps – Rotate the clamps to tighten down and secure the carrier to your roof racks. Be sure all four clamps are fully tightened.
• Attach safety cables – Thread the provided security cables through the carrier zippers and lock them together. This deters theft when parked.
• Confirm attachment – Rock the carrier gently to ensure it is securely attached before loading cargo inside.

With the universal quick-grip mounting system, most DIYers can have the Rightline Gear Ace installed in less than 10 minutes. Always double-check the tightness of the clamps before hitting the road.

Where to Buy the Rightline Gear Ace Online

The Rightline Gear Ace is sold by a number of major online retailers that offer competitive pricing and incentives like free shipping. Here are some of the best places to purchase this rooftop cargo carrier online:

• Amazon – Free 2-day shipping for Prime members. Frequently discounted pricing.
• Walmart – Everyday low pricing with free 2-day delivery on orders over $35.
• BackCountry – Outdoor gear retailer with fast free shipping. Price match guarantee.
• REI – Special member pricing. 100% satisfaction guarantee and free returns.
• Cabela’s – Qualifies for discounted flat-rate shipping. Earn points with purchases.
• eBay – New and used Aces sold by various sellers. Watch for bargains.

For the best price, be sure to compare across retailers and take advantage of any coupon codes or seasonal sales when buying your Rightline Gear Ace cargo carrier.

How Much Does the Rightline Gear Ace Carrier Cost?

The Rightline Gear Ace has an MSRP of $289.99, but it can easily be found for much less from major retailers. Here’s a look at the typical price range:

• Sale Price: $199 to $249
• Regular Price: $250 to $300
• MSRP: $289.99

The Ace’s sale price is usually between $199 and $249 at most online stores. This makes it a very budget-friendly rooftop cargo carrier option compared to pricier brands.

Amazon frequently marks down the Rightline Gear Ace to $199 with free shipping, making it an even more affordable buy.

By comparison shopping across retailers and watching for seasonal promotions, you can often grab the Ace cargo carrier for under $225 shipped. That’s a steal for the quality, capacity, and performance this rooftop carrier provides.

Reviews of the Rightline Gear Ace Cargo Carrier

The Rightline Gear Ace earns consistently positive reviews across major retailers and is rated as one of the top cargo carriers on the market. Here are some highlights from customer reviews:

• “Easy to install and holds way more than I need for a weekend trip. Got it on sale for a steal!” (5 stars)
• “This cargo carrier withstood a 2500 mile road trip loaded down with camping gear, toolboxes, and suitcases. Would definitely recommend it.” (5 stars)
• “Looks good on my Subaru Outback. The zippered sides are great for increasing space when I need it.” (4.5 stars)
• “No leaks after getting caught in a downpour! Kept all our luggage and clothes dry inside.” (5 stars)
• “Super spacious inside and handles highway speeds with no issues or added wind noise.” (4 stars)
• “Seems really well made for the price. Installation was a breeze.” (5 stars)

Negative reviews are rare for the Ace carrier, mainly pointing out that larger/longer items can be tricky to fit. Overall, it scores top marks for its versatility, quality, and ease of use from most customers.

Storage Capacity of the Rightline Gear Ace

With its cavernous 18 cubic feet interior, the Rightline Gear Ace provides plenty of versatile storage for all your road trip necessities.

To put its cargo space into perspective, here are some estimates of how much the Ace carrier can hold:

• 2-3 suitcases – Great for transporting luggage for a family of 4.
• 6-8 duffel bags – Makes packing for a group easy.
• 2large backpacks – Plus sleeping bags, pads, tents, and other camping gear.
• 6standard storage bins – Ideal for moving or college transport.
• 2 snowboards + equipment – Room for snow/ski gear for a family.
• Fishing poles, tackle, coolers – Transport your fishing essentials with room to spare.
• Tools, auto parts, craft supplies – Keep dirty/bulky items separated from the cabin interior.

With the capacity to take the place of a small attic, the Rightline Gear Ace cargo carrier expands your vehicle’s cargo possibilities. Use it solo or combine it with a hitch-mounted carrier for ultimate storage space.

Is the Rightline Gear Ace Waterproof?

One of the top questions customers have is whether or not the Rightline Gear Ace cargo carrier is fully waterproof. The answer is yes – this carrier is designed to protect your belongings from rain, snow, and splashes.

Here’s a look at the weatherproof features that make the Ace a dry cargo area:

• Welded thermoplastic shell – The rigid exterior is molded as one solid piece so there are no seams or cracks for water to seep through.
• Waterproof zippers – The lockable zipper flaps form a barrier to keep rain and snow out of the carrier’s interior.
• Included rain fly – A rain fly comes included to place over the zipper openings in very wet conditions.
• Limited submersion rating – The Ace’s shell can withstand brief partial submersion without leaks.

While not recommended for extended underwater submersion, the Rightline Gear Ace provides ample water protection for rainy road trips and snowy weather driving. Reviewers confirm items stay dry inside.

What Materials Are Used to Build the Rightline Gear Ace?

The Rightline Gear Ace is constructed using durable, lightweight thermoplastic resin materials. Here are details on the main materials:

• Thermoplastic shell – The Ace’s rigid outer shell is made from a polyethylene thermoplastic material. This is molded as one solid piece for seamless protection.
• ABS flooring – The bottom of the interior features a textured ABS plastic floor to prevent cargo from sliding around.
• Nylon zippers – Heavy duty nylon zippers open the carrier on both sides with lockable covers.
• Foam sidewalls – Soft foam sidewalls protect cargo from damage during transit.
• Zinc-plated steel – Rust-resistant steel cables provide added security when locked.
• Quick-grip clamps – The mounting system uses glass-reinforced nylon with a rubber insulator.

Built from weatherproof plastics and nylon, the Rightline Gear Ace strikes an ideal balance of being lightweight yet extremely durable. It stands up to years of outdoor use.

Using the Ace Without Roof Racks

The Rightline Gear Ace is designed to attach to standard roof rack systems with its universal mounting clamps. But is it possible to use this cargo carrier without roof racks installed?

With some additional equipment, the Ace can be mounted directly to a vehicle’s roof:

• Roof rack towers – Adding a set of removable roof towers allows the Ace to be clamped on. Towers bolt into door frame holes.
• Portable roof racks – An alternative is a temporary portable roof rack that straps onto the roof for temporary use.
• Magnetic mounts – Powerful neodymium magnet sets can secure the Ace to metal roof vehicles only.
• Hatchback straps – For hatchback-style vehicles, straps can secure the carrier through open doors.
• ** SUV strap mount** – A harness system threads through open SUV doors to mount the carrier above.

While most convenient with standard roof racks, Rightline Gear’s design allows the Ace to be mounted directly to a roof in various ways for greater versatility.

Is the Rightline Gear Ace Secure for Driving?

Based on customer reviews, the Rightline Gear Ace cargo carrier is extremely secure when properly installed on your vehicle’s roof racks.

Here are some key points about how the Ace achieves road-ready security:

• Snug mounting system – The quick-grip clamps keep the carrier tightened down through twists and bumps.
• Non-slip pads – Inner pads grip roof rails securely while protecting your racks from scratches.
• Wind-resistant shape – The angled front profile minimizes side-to-side wind buffeting at highway speeds.
• Limited roof weight – Weighing about 56 pounds empty, the Ace exerts minimal load on roof railing systems.
• Locking zippers – Built-in locks keep zippers tightened down so cargo can’t fall out.
• Sturdy shell – The rigid thermoplastic shell and reinforced base withstand off-road abuse without flexing.
• Security cables – Included cable lock deters theft and provides an extra measure of security.

As long as you take care to tighten the mounting clamps fully and use the locking zippers, the Rightline Gear Ace remains fixed in place on even the longest road trips.

What Makes the Rightline Gear Ace Unique?

There are plenty of cargo carriers out there, but the Rightline Gear Ace stands out with some unique design features:

• Expandable zippered sides – Unzip the expanders to get up to 8 extra cubic feet of storage when needed.
• Dual side access – The Ace opens from both sides for extra loading flexibility. Most carriers only open from one side.
• Modular lid ports – Caps on the lid allow for mounts like bike racks to be installed.
• Quick-grip clamps – Ace’s tool-free clamps make installation fast and frustration-free.
• Interior access window – A panel in the floor allows access inside without fully unzipping the carrier.
• Lifetime limited warranty – Rightline Gear offers lifetime limited coverage against defects.
• Reflective accents – Contrasting reflective piping provides 360° nighttime visibility.

With thoughtful design features like these, it’s easy to see why the versatile Ace is a top choice for many road warriors. No other carrier combines security, capacity, ease of use, and flexibility quite like it.

Cleaning and Care for the Rightline Gear Ace

Like any piece of outdoor gear, proper cleaning and care is key to getting the longest lifetime use out of your Rightline Gear Ace carrier. Here are some tips:

• Rinse regularly with water to remove dirt and mud after trips.
• Use a mild soap and soft brush to scrub off tougher grime or road debris. Avoid harsh chemicals.
• Towel dry the interior to prevent mold or odors from developing.
• Apply a UV protectant like 303 Aerospace Protectant to the exterior to condition the shell.
• Ensure the zippers move freely and lubricate with silicone spray if needed.
• Inspect the straps and quick clamps periodically and replace if damaged.
• Avoid overloading the carrier, distributing weight evenly for best stability.

With occasional cleaning and maintenance, your Rightline Gear Ace cargo carrier will deliver years of reliable performance on all your adventures.

Using the Ace Carrier on Different Vehicle Types

Thanks to Rightline Gear’s flexible mounting system, the Ace cargo carrier is compatible with most types of passenger vehicles.

According to Rightline Gear, the Ace can be installed on:

• SUVs
• Crossovers
• Minivans
• Hatchbacks
• Sedans
• Coupes

The Ace fits vehicles with roof racks, including factory installed side rails, raised side rails, rain gutter rails, or aftermarket crossbars.

With the proper mounting adapter equipment, the Ace can also work on pickup trucks, jeeps, and even camper vans lacking rails. The versatile mounting options make this carrier widely adaptable.

Just be sure to pay attention to your specific vehicle’s roof weight limit when loading the Ace. As with any rooftop cargo carrier, heavier vehicles like SUVs will handle the load better than smaller sedans and coupes.

How Durable Is the Rightline Gear Ace?

Backed by positive customer reviews across years of use, the Rightline Gear Ace earns top marks for durability thanks to its rigid, weatherproof construction.

Here are some signs of the Ace’s long-lasting performance:

• Withstands high speeds – The stiff shell and aerodynamic shape allow driving up to highway speeds with no issues.
• Doesn’t crack or dent – The molded polyethylene thermoplastic exterior holds up to impact without damage.
• Handles off-roading – The Ace’s rugged build quality stands up to rough dirt and gravel road conditions.
• Designed for outdoor exposure – UV-resistant materials prevent sun damage and discoloration after prolonged outdoor use.
• Waterproof materials – Seamless welded plastic construction keeps rain and snow out year after year.
• Flawless performance for years – Many reviewers report getting 5+ years of flawless use out of their Ace carrier.

While inexpensive, the Rightline Gear Ace doesn’t cut corners when it comes to durability. Expect this carrier to handle all of life’s adventures without missing a beat for years of service.

Rightline Gear’s Warranty for the Ace Carrier

The Rightline Gear Ace cargo carrier comes backed by Rightline Gear’s 1-year limited warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.

The warranty coverage includes:

• 1-year limited warranty from date of purchase
• Covers all manufacturing defects and flaws
• Warranty honored by Rightline Gear or authorized dealers

To receive service under the warranty, you simply need to provide your original order receipt as proof of purchase along with details on the issue.

Unfortunately, damages from improper use, overloading, or accidents are not covered by the warranty. But for issues like premature cracking or broken mounting hardware that arise, Rightline Gear will repair or replace your Ace carrier.

Available Accessories for the Rightline Gear Ace

One advantage of the Ace’s popularity is that Rightline Gear offers a range of compatible accessories:

• Rain fly – For extra weather protection, a waterproof rain fly is available to cover the entire rooftop carrier.
• Replacement quick-grip clamps – Don’t get caught with broken clamps on a road trip. Keep spare clamps on hand.
• Cargo nets – Interior nets help organize and restrain smaller items in the carrier.
• Roof rack tower adapters – For mounting the Ace on vehicles without roof racks installed.
• Rooftop tent adapters – Special plates allow Ace to serve as a platform for mounting Rightline’s roof tents.
• Replacement security locks – Ensure your gear stays locked down by keeping extra lock cores on hand.
• Mounting pads – Swap out the interior pads when they become worn down over time.

Accessorize your Rightline Gear Ace to customize it for your needs and keep it performing like new for years.

How the Rightline Gear Ace Compares to Other Carriers

The Rightline Gear Ace stands up well when compared side-by-side with other popular rooftop cargo carriers. Here’s a look at how it stacks up to some top competitors:

Yakima SkyBox – More aerodynamic, but significantly more expensive and lower capacity. Ace provides better value.

Thule Motion XT – Also costly but with sleeker styling. Ace offers similar quality for much less.

SportRack Vista XL – Very similar design and performance. Ace is often cheaper and has more interior space.

INNO Shadow 16 – Comparable price but the Ace has greater capacity and additional convenience features.

Smittybilt Overlander – Another budget-priced option, but the Ace offers better water protection and security.

Overall, the Rightline Gear Ace holds its own when compared to premium priced competitors while offering unmatched value and versatility. For shoppers focused on function over flash, the Ace is a runaway winner.

Does the Rightline Gear Ace Come with Instructions?

Yes, the Rightline Gear Ace comes packaged with a printed instruction guide that covers everything from mounting to use and care.

The included instructions provide:

• Step-by-step installation guidance
• Tips for proper loading and weight distribution
• Usage and security recommendations
• Cleaning and care guidelines
• Warranty policy information

Rightline Gear also has additional resources available on their website including installation videos for the Ace carrier. Between the included instructions and online guides, installing and using this carrier properly is hassle-free.

Is the Rightline Gear Ace Carrier Portable?

One of the Ace cargo carrier’s advantages is that it remains reasonably portable when not installed atop your vehicle.

Here are some ways Rightline Gear designed the Ace to allow easy portability:

• Lightweight – Weighing just 56 pounds empty allows easy lifting on and off the roof.
• Compact storage – Collapses down smaller when empty for convenient garage or closet storage.
• Quick attachment – The tool-less clamps make installing and removing the carrier quick and simple.
• Carry handles – Integrated grips on the sides allow two people to transport the Ace.

While bulky when at full capacity, the empty Ace carrier can easily be installed or removed in minutes. Just take care when lifting it and avoid dropping it when transporting by hand.

Does the Rightline Gear Ace Offer UV Protection?

The Ace’s rugged, molded shell is treated to block harmful UV rays from deteriorating the carrier or fading its color over time.

Key UV protection features include:

• UV-resistant plastics – The thermoplastic polyethylene has UV inhibitors blended in to prevent sun damage.
• Watertight zipper flaps – Zipper covers seal out sunlight even when partially open.
• Limited window space – Small rear windows limit UV exposure inside the carrier.
• Optional rain fly – A full rain fly (sold separately) provides full sun protection for the entire roof carrier.
• Darker shell color – The Ace’s black or gray palette helps mask sun fading over years of use.

So while not 100% opaque, the Rightline Gear Ace provides ample UV protection to keep your gear and the carrier itself protected on sunny road trips.

Conclusion

With its rugged and spacious design, versatile mounting system, and budget-friendly price, it’s easy to see why the Rightline Gear Ace is one of the top-selling rooftop cargo carriers available today. This buying guide covers all the key details shoppers need before investing in the Ace for their cargo hauling needs.

Focusing on value, durability, and ease of use, the Ace provides serious storage capacity at a fraction of the price of premium cargo carriers. Just be sure to compare retailers to find the best deal on the Rightline Gear Ace. Your future road trip adventures will thank you!