Mr Jones

I need to buy some roof racks and I've looked at Thule but haven't had a chance to look at the MB ones. With MB racks, I know it connects to the lug under the flip up plastic hatch, but does any part of the rubber base touch the car? The Thule racks connect to the lug but have a rubber base. In the past, I had racks on another car and dust got in between the rubber and the car and over time, it wore the paint slightly. Close up photos would be great or just let me know please.

Pewterslk320

Mr. Jones, I have the MB OEM. They do not touch the car's paint at all.
Their bases basically sit on two metal posts with the screw threat in the middle; You can see them if you open one of the four plates on the side roof black trims.
I highly recommend to stick with the MB (OEM) roof racks to avoid damaged on your roof.
I have transported 100lbs large box (dinning Table) on these racks with no problem.

BD-C63

I too have the OEM MB crossbars and recommend them. It is a slick design that won't mess up your paint. The bars themselves are very sturdy.

Mr Jones

Thanks guys, I'll go to MB and check them out.

Maydaze

I just bought a used C63 over thanksgiving and have said OEM racks in my trunk. I will never use them. They seem to be in good working order...if you want to save a few bucks, I would be happy to sell and ship them to you.

Just an offer...

Mr Jones

I bought the MB ones and thankfully got them discounted to less than what the Thule ones were selling for. For anyone trying to decide between the genuine MB or Thule aftermarket, the MB product wins hands down. I fitted and removed both racks to my car. The MB ones are so much simpler. With the Thule ones it's a 2 stage process. First you have to screw a double ended bolt into each lug in the roof channel. You then have to attach the rack to each lug. And as discussed above the MB ones sit just above the roof with nothing touching the paintwork.
Thanks for your help and advice.