Weather Tech Pet Barrier and Height Extension Kit Review

First Impressions of Weather Tech Pet Barrier and Height Extension Kit

The Weather Tech Pet Barrier and Height Extension Kit promises a simple solution to a common problem for pet owners: keeping furry friends safely contained in the back of the vehicle. WeatherTech, known for their durable and precisely-engineered automotive accessories, aims to deliver that promise with this adjustable barrier. It’s a modular system that expands both horizontally and vertically, designed to fit a wide range of vehicles without requiring any tools or permanent modifications.

Like many outdoor enthusiasts, my dog, a rambunctious German Shepherd named “Shadow,” is my constant companion. He loves car rides, but his enthusiasm often leads to distractions, whether that’s sticking his head between the seats, or attempting to “help” with directions by nudging the GPS. I was seeking a robust, easily-installed solution to prevent these distractions, prioritizing safety and preventing potential damage to my vehicle’s interior.

Unboxing the Weather Tech Pet Barrier and Height Extension Kit, I was immediately struck by the substantial feel of the components. The aluminum crossbars and the robust plastic connectors felt reassuringly solid. The grey and black color scheme is understated and should blend in well with most car interiors.

I considered a few other pet barriers before settling on this one. Mesh barriers seemed flimsy and easily defeated by a determined dog. Wire barriers, while sturdy, often require tools for installation and can rattle annoyingly. The Weather Tech Pet Barrier and Height Extension Kit’s “no tools required” claim and seemingly rattle-free design were major selling points.

My initial impression is one of cautious optimism. The build quality seems excellent, and the adjustability suggests a good fit for my SUV. Whether it can truly withstand Shadow’s relentless curiosity, only time (and real-world testing) will tell.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Weather Tech Pet Barrier and Height Extension Kit to the Test

First Use Experience

The initial installation took about 15 minutes in my Subaru Outback. The instructions are clear, and the adjustable components made it relatively easy to achieve a snug fit. The large, flexible support feet at the top of the barrier conformed well to the contours of the headliner.

My first test involved a 30-minute drive to a local hiking trail. Shadow was initially curious about the barrier, giving it a few tentative nudges, but he quickly settled down. The biggest surprise was how quiet the barrier was; no rattles or squeaks, even over bumpy roads.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a few months of regular use, the Weather Tech Pet Barrier and Height Extension Kit has proven to be a reliable and effective solution. It has held up well to Shadow’s occasional leaning and pawing, showing no signs of wear and tear beyond a few minor scratches. I’ve used it on both long road trips and short errands around town.

Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dog hair and muddy paw prints. It still looks as good as new after months of regular use. Compared to the universal wire mesh barrier I used previously (which constantly rattled and eventually tore), the Weather Tech Pet Barrier is a significant upgrade in both durability and performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Weather Tech Pet Barrier and Height Extension Kit

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Weather Tech
• Application: Car, SUV, Minivan.
• Color: Grey/Black.
• Length: 2 inches (This is likely the packaged length of the height extension kit only, not the assembled length).
• Weight: 0.63 oz (Again, this is likely the weight of the height extension kit only).
• Minimum Height Adjustment: 30 inches.
• Maximum Height Adjustment: 46 inches.
• Minimum Width Adjustment: 39 inches.
• Maximum Width Adjustment: 66 inches.
• Cross Bar Spacing: 3-3/8 inches.

These specifications are important because they dictate the range of vehicles the barrier can fit. The height and width adjustments are generous, accommodating most standard-sized vehicles. The crossbar spacing is narrow enough to prevent most pets from squeezing through, ensuring effective containment.

Performance & Functionality

The Weather Tech Pet Barrier and Height Extension Kit performs its primary function admirably: keeping pets safely confined to the rear of the vehicle. It significantly reduces driver distraction, allowing for a safer and more relaxed driving experience. The barrier is easy to adjust, allowing for a customized fit in various vehicles.

The main strength of this product is its ease of installation and adjustability. One minor weakness is that very small dogs might be able to slip through the crossbars, but it’s unlikely. Overall, the barrier meets and exceeds my expectations for a pet containment system.

Design & Ergonomics

The Weather Tech Pet Barrier features a clean, minimalist design that blends well with most vehicle interiors. The combination of aluminum and durable plastic creates a lightweight yet sturdy structure. The large, flexible support feet are a thoughtful design element, providing a secure and rattle-free fit against the headliner.

The barrier is user-friendly, requiring no tools for installation or adjustment. The quick-turn red knobs make adjustments easy and intuitive.

Durability & Maintenance

The materials used in the Weather Tech Pet Barrier and Height Extension Kit are designed for long-term durability. The aluminum crossbars are resistant to bending and corrosion, while the plastic connectors are made from a strong, advanced plastic material. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is sufficient to maintain the barrier’s appearance and functionality.

I anticipate this barrier lasting for many years with proper care. The simple design and robust materials minimize the likelihood of any major repairs being needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Weather Tech Pet Barrier and Height Extension Kit comes with everything needed for installation and adjustment. The height extension kit allows for greater vertical adjustment, accommodating taller vehicles or pets that are prone to jumping. While there are no aftermarket customization options specifically designed for this barrier, its modular design allows for some creativity.

Some users might find ways to attach small pouches or toys to the crossbars for added convenience. The barrier is primarily designed as a standalone system and doesn’t require any additional accessories for basic functionality.

Pros and Cons of Weather Tech Pet Barrier and Height Extension Kit