Front tie downs for carrying a kayak

[Waynephelps]

The Subaru dealer offers no solutions for tying down the bow of my 17' sea kayak to the front bumper. I know about tow hooks and grill guards that can help avoid damage to the car. But, I am told that the tie down ropes will obstruct front collision/ navigation sensors. Does anyone have experience to share? Has anyone found better guidance from Subaru?

 

[22Brad]

Rope a small bit of broom handle about 4 inches long. Drill a small hole for your bow line and make a knot. Tuck it into your engine bay front of car...and just off to one side of hood latch. close the hood. shift kayak aft until the line is snug. then finish tie down straps normally. This works nicely.

 

[Ecmbuster]

Key words are "obstruct front collision/ navigation sensors"

kayak roof rack subaru - Google Search

Use the proper design.