Owning a car and taking care of it requires more than just basic servicing and regular maintenance. Of course, you need to keep your car clean and in good condition, but you can also enhance its performance and appeal with some of the essential accessories that can improve appeal and performance.
While most people would go for the regular options like rims, body kits, or spoilers, there’s one very underrated and often-forgotten accessory that can provide significant improvements to both the comfort and performance of your car – installing fitted and high-performance wind deflectors for better aerodynamics.
What Are Wind Deflectors Used for?
Also known as weather shields for cars, these nifty tools are basically long strips that are installed on the top of car windows. Their small very effective design brings a number of perks.
Increased Ventilation and Aerodynamics
These two terms are quite frequently used when discussing vehicles of any kind thanks to their importance in providing better performance. When you have better aerodynamics, your car will move more quickly and efficiently., while proper ventilation allows for better air circulation within the cabin.
When you install a wind deflector, you’re essentially directing the wind away from the edges of your window, allowing air to flow freely and evenly throughout the interior of your car. This will keep you more comfortable while driving, as well as provide better aerodynamic performance. This is because their curved design reduces wind resistance and forces the air to flow in a specific direction.
Improved Fuel Efficiency
When you think about it, weather shields can actually help you save money in the long run. By reducing air resistance and allowing a smooth flow of air throughout your car, it will reduce drag significantly, which in turn leads to better fuel efficiency.
Naturally, when your vehicle needs more power to move, it will consume more fuel. By installing a wind deflector, you can take advantage of the improved aerodynamics and enhanced fuel efficiency that it provides.
Reduced Wind Noise
If you’ve ever tried opening a window while driving at a considerably high speed, you know the loud noise that it makes – the constant whistling and hissing that can be quite annoying. Installing a wind deflector can help you reduce this noise significantly, as it prevents the air from entering your car with as much force.
Even when you’re driving at a greater speed, the noise that comes from your window opening will be significantly reduced. It’s a great way to keep you and your passengers more comfortable during longer road trips.
Enhanced Vehicle Aesthetics
Wind deflectors can also help you upgrade the look of your car with its sleek design and high-quality finish. They’ve certainly come a long way since their bulky and unattractive predecessors, and modern wind deflectors come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials.
Not to mention that they can also be customized with various colours and designs depending on your preferences. They’re an excellent way to give your car a unique look without having to break the bank.
How Do You Choose Wind Deflectors for Your Car?
With the main benefits of these accessories aside, you need to focus on a few essential aspects when it comes to choosing the right wind deflector for your car. Oftentimes, this involves a handful of factors, including:
Vehicle Compatibility
Naturally, the type of car you have is one of the most important aspects to consider. Not all wind deflectors are compatible with every car, so you need to make sure that you choose one that will fit your vehicle perfectly. It’s also important to consider the size and shape of the windows in order to get a better idea of the type of wind deflector that will fit.
Type of Deflector
The next thing to look into is the type of deflector that you need. Wind deflectors are usually divided into two main categories – hard and soft. Generally, the hard ones provide better durability and performance, while the soft ones are easier to install and remove when necessary. Both options have the same functionality, so it ultimately depends on what your preferences are.
Materials and Build Quality
In terms of materials, the most common options are acrylic and polycarbonate varieties. Acrylic is a type of plastic that’s lightweight and highly durable, with reinforced build quality that prevents it from cracking or warping over time. On the other hand, polycarbonate is a more expensive option that’s harder and more resistant to impacts, making it a great choice for those looking for superior performance.
Ease of Installation
Installing wind deflectors can be quite challenging if you don’t have any experience in this type of DIY job. That’s why you should look for a product that comes with easy-to-follow instructions and clear illustrations. This way, you can save time and energy, as well as ensure that your deflector is installed properly.
Care and Maintenance
Just like any other car accessory, weather shields require regular maintenance. This includes cleaning the deflectors regularly to prevent any dirt or debris from accumulating on them, as well as making sure that the materials and build quality remain intact. Additionally, you should check for any signs of damage after installing your wind deflectors and replace them if necessary.
