This part is basically a structural support. It's a metal piece that runs across the underside of your vehicle, connecting the sides. For a roof panel cross member, it directly supports the roof itself – giving it strength and a place to attach to. It's usually boxed steel, built pretty tough. Think of it like the skeleton of your car's roof. It doesn’t do anything visible, but everything connects to it. It’s part of the unibody structure, which means it plays a role in the overall rigidity of the vehicle, not just the roof. It helps distribute weight and impact forces. It's crucial for maintaining the proper shape of the roof and ensuring everything stays aligned. Well, if this gets damaged – from rust, a collision, or just general wear and tear – you’ll notice if it’s bad enough. The roof could start to sag, you might get some unusual noises, or things just won’t line up properly when you try to repair the roof. It acts like a shield, protecting the cabin from collapsing in a rollover situation. More than that, though, a compromised cross member weakens the whole structure. You can find these parts pretty readily if you need to replace one, and places like Fixparts Online carry a good selection. Ignoring a bad one can lead to bigger, more expensive problems down the road, affecting handling and even safety. All-season performance: Cross Member (MPN 1K8817097A) comes with a 12-month warranty!

About Volkswagen

Volkswagen is a world-renowned automaker delivering innovative vehicles that combine performance, practicality, and cutting-edge design.

Why Choose Volkswagen?

• Get parts made specifically for your VW, ensuring a perfect fit and reliable performance. • Volkswagen parts are quality-tested to meet high standards, so you can drive with confidence. • Using genuine VW parts helps maintain your vehicle’s value. • We have a wide selection of parts, from everyday maintenance items to more complex components. Volkswagen delivers excellence, FixParts Online delivers to your door.