Damage to car? Has anyone experienced issues with paint being rubbed off or scarred where carrier or straps connect with car? This will be the determining factor as to whether I purchase the Shuttle 2 bike carrier. Thank you. Damage to car? Has anyone experienced issues with paint being rubbed off or scarred where carrier or straps connect with car? This will be the determining factor as to whether I purchase the... » Read More Damage to car? Has anyone experienced issues with paint being rubbed off or scarred where carrier or straps connect with car? This will be the determining factor as to whether I purchase the Shuttle 2 bike carrier. Thank you. « Show Less
1487992
The only problem that I have had after 12 years is that if you tighten the straps too hard, it may slightly bend the metal where the hooks meet the car, but so far, no scratches.
204354
Good observation/question! Is the backing sharp? Does it have the potential to scratch the paint? The short answer to both questions is "Yes". But it really depends on how closely your license plate with the frame is to the body when secured with screws. On my Chevy Equinox, the frame was very close (1/16") at the top where the screws mount to the lift gate. At the bottom, the license frame to body clearance was approx. 3/8". I had the same concern as you, knowing that the frame could touch the paint if pushed on (as when washing), or even shutting the lift gate as the frame/plate could vibrate when stopping at the latch. To prevent any marks/scratches, I simply applied a length of 1/8" thick foam rubber weather strip at the top of the plate, and I used a length of 3/8" weather strip on the bottom of the plate. Outdoor use weather stripping is available at most hardware stores/home centers in a variety of thicknesses. The outdoor stripping is usually black or gray (indoor is typically white/ neutral). Get the type that has adhesive on one side. I applied the adhesive side to the BACK of the license plate at the top and bottom, parallel to each other, approx. 1/2" from the edge of the plate. All depending on how the plate mounts and what the clearances are at the top, bottom, and sides, you could put the weather stripping on just the sides, or even all the way around the back side of the plate. In any event, my license plate and frame cannot come in contact with the painted surface.
358465
I've left it on, but I haven't been concerned if marks might be made on my travel trailer bumper. I will say the rack is somewhat heavy; add bikes to it and the weight compounds. My guess is it will likely leave marks unless you are able to pad the bumper surface somehow.
1830622
I had read the comments concerning this. I found that if I took a lid from 2# plastic coffee container over the speaker it prevented any problems. I covered 12,000 miles over a three week period last summer and did not have any problems. The lids weren't damaged at all but the did have some marks on them from the rubbing when loading and removing the bag from the bike. I don't know if they were really needed but I didn't want to take any chances.
431737
I have never had an issue with the paint--mine is even. The only part that appears painted is the blackish background behind the lion, and the whole piece has a sort of antique finish to it. I've had mine for more than 4 years and have had no issues with regular wear. Hope this helps!
776546
I've not had this problem. I have a silver Scion XA and no scratches. There's a buckle-type attachment to stop the ramp from slipping, and on the other end it seems to sit fairly firmly on the ground. I suppose if you drove along with the ramp attached it might cause scratches, but I haven't tried that!
558342
How is your spoiler holding up since you wrote this comment? Are you carrying two bikes or one? I have a 2010 Honda Fit sport and was concerned that the instructions recommended not putting the straps over the spoiler. Thanks for your response
910403
If our 4 children ride this tube long enough, it rubs one of them raw. But, that doesn't stop her from riding it for a long time, though. Our last tube like this (different brand) rubbed her raw the first few times, too. But, after she got used to the fabric and riding it, it wasn't a problem. She's only ridden this tube two separate weekends, so we're hopeful the problem will get better like it did with the last tube. We bought this tube because of the durability reviews--the last one didn't last as long as we'd have liked. Hope this helps.
276059
It did not scratch anything on my van. We used it on a trip from MA to VA and back and did not experience any movement to the carrier. I would use the helpful hint that others have mentioned before and cut a thin piece of plywood to put at the bottom of the pack to make everything sturdy and stable. This really is a great item that I would highly recommend.
97929
It's very heavy duty, and it seems to be painted well, but it is steel. If the paint gets chipped, it will start to rust. How long it lasts will be a direct result of how well you take care of it. If you keep the scratches covered (repaint them) so it can't rust, then it should last a very long time.
49651
No issues at all, it's a great tank bag! You do want to make sure your bike is clean before installing the bag, as dirt / sand under the bag will end up scratching the paint.
1687000
I used my carrier on a 2014 ford Taurus. Just as a precaution I remove the pe deal on the inside since I was traveling 1700 miles and I didn't want to take a chance of scratching the car. It was the first time I used the carrier and didn't know exactly how to adjust it to prevent scratching. This is really a nice carrier and fully adjustable. I would recommend you give it a try.
1750691
This carrier is not indestructible, however my amazon who is a chewer has not chewed any of this carrier. The birds are so distracted by all the other scenery and interaction they have no need to chew. Recently we went on a 2 hour drive and although we had regular stops I thought the car journey was a good test. The pak o bird came out unscathed. Hope this helps.
273616
The black paint on the center of the toys chest... the "Gru Symbol" rubs off with continued use. I don't know if it's improved or not because the paint is still rubbed off mine.
2132449
No. All of the contact points with the car are padded, so it doesn't damage the paint.
1412672
I just got mine today. The Backrest Board has a small tear above the embroidered company logo which was sealed with heat-glue. I am going to contact the Manufacturer tomorrow to have it replaced. There were scratches and scuff marks towards the top of both (left and right) upright beams where a person would set a barbell; It's possible someone owned this before me and returned it. I was impressed with the packaging; Everything came in its own plastic bag; But perhaps thicker plastic would do a better job (if the scratches and scuffs were from transport). Everything 'else' looks brand new.
570678
Hi, I haven't had any issues, but I have the chrome MacBook air. Although I don't think there is any dye that could rub off. Interior lined with lighter grey cloth. Hope this helps, Satisfied customer!