What is a deflector
A car deflector is an aerodynamic device of a simplified design designed to deflect the flow of direct air while driving. The name is derived from the Latin “deflecto” - to reject. The effect of use appears when driving at a speed of at least 80 km/h.
It is a plastic cover in the form of a curved shield that is attached to the extreme points of the car body.
Main functions of the deflector:
- changing the trajectory of direct air flow;
- reduction of resistance to oncoming air flow due to a shape designed according to special calculations;
- protection from insects, dust and small stones;
- additional air circulation inside the cabin.
An additional function is to change the appearance of the car to suit fashion trends or a changing corporate style to give it a streamlined shape.
Understanding the concepts
The stable name fly swatter was assigned to this element. If you go to any car accessories store and ask for a fly swatter, no one will definitely give you a special stick that is used to kill flies at home.
Everyone knows perfectly well what we are talking about. It’s just that the popular vernacular has changed its guidelines somewhat, as a result of which sophisticated solutions from such manufacturers as Sim, EGR, Vip Tuning are naively called fly swatters. But look what the Silkscreen series from CO Plastic looks like. It’s a shame to call such elements flyswatters.
The correct name is deflector. Translated from Latin, it means to reject. This is an element of aerodynamics that, using its shape, can redirect air flows. Here it would be logical to remember what a spoiler is.
We sorted out the names. Let's move on.
Where are deflectors used?
Depending on where it is installed on the vehicle, the deflector performs a specific function:
- Radiator . A specially shaped deflector serves to protect against damage from medium-sized stones and various contaminants.
- Headlights . The deflector significantly reduces the likelihood of damage when driving on a dirt road or an embankment road made of crushed stone. In addition, it protects against insects and dirt. Creates an original style.
- Hood . Protects against damage from small stones and debris. Reduces oncoming air resistance. Changes appearance.
- Windshield . Installed on both sides. Prevents contamination of the side windows and interior when using the windshield wiper, and does not allow the “blind zone” to increase.
- Side windows . Interior ventilation, protection from direct air flows, sun protection effect, car aesthetics.
- Luke . Mounted above the front. Protects the interior from dust, reduces noise, and prevents precipitation. Visually changes the appearance of the car.
- Rear window . Slightly stabilizes the vehicle at speeds over 90 km/h, eliminates glare on the central brake light, and protects against contamination. Shades the interior, thereby preventing it from overheating.
The installation location is designed at manufacturing plants in order to achieve maximum effect from use.
Main varieties
Deflectors are distinguished by type of installation, appearance, and location. While driving, air currents cover almost the entire body of the car, and dust and dirt flying with them can get inside from several sides. Accordingly, to protect each vulnerable area of the machine, there are deflectors.
Side window deflectors
The elements are installed on the upper edge of car doors. Properly selected deflectors complement the design of the vehicle and add presentability to it. But the main thing is that they do not allow various debris or precipitation to enter the cabin during bad weather:
- dust;
- sand;
- rain;
- snow.
In addition, side window deflectors optimize air circulation inside the car and prevent the accumulation and formation of condensation. They relieve the driver and passengers from the flow of air into the face if the windows are not fully lowered.
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Hood deflector
It is attached above the headlights, partially covering the lower part of the hood. The hood deflector is also popularly called a “fly swatter”. In addition to the fact that it protects the car from dirt and oncoming stones, it also cuts off insects flying towards them, which do not smear on the surface of the car.
This ensures a clean look lasts longer. Thanks to the deflector, the oncoming air flow, and therefore debris, is directed upward and even goes around the windshield.
You should choose the hood deflector wisely, since if you install a device that does not correspond to a specific vehicle, it can be torn off by the wind. In addition, an incorrectly selected deflector will lead to a decrease in downforce on the front axle and at the same time increase the lift of the rear axle, which at high speed will reduce the stability and controllability of the car.
Hatch deflector
Mounted on the roof of the car above the front of the hatch. Adds comfort and convenience to passengers, especially when driving off-road: it prevents dust and dirt from entering the car interior.
If the deflector is correctly selected and matches the style of the vehicle, then in addition to its main function, it also gives it an original appearance.
Rear window deflector
In addition to the standard functions of protecting the rear window from dirt, such a deflector also has an aerodynamic property - it stabilizes the vehicle at high speed.
This device also eliminates sun glare on the brake lights located at the top of the rear door. Reduces the penetration of sunlight into the car, prevents overheating of the interior, and makes the temperature in the car more comfortable.
Headlight deflector
It protects the glass of car headlights from dirt, prevents midges flying towards them from smearing on them, but most importantly, reduces the likelihood of them breaking while driving on a dirt road. To attach these devices, it is necessary to open the hood, which is an additional guarantee of the safety of property when the car is left unattended.
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In addition to its main purposes, it gives the car an original “predatory” look.
Deflector shape and material
The deflector model depends on the installation location and required functions. Each shape is made in accordance with aerodynamic calculations specifically for each make and model of car.
The material for making the deflector must have the following characteristics:
- strength,
- wear resistance,
- heat resistance,
- resistance to ultraviolet rays,
- chemical resistance,
- aesthetics.
The following materials have a combination of such properties and are most often used for the manufacture of deflectors:
- organic glass consisting of acrylic resin, thermoplastic transparent plastic and organic polymer. Additional characteristics of plexiglass: it is environmentally friendly, odorless, does not change color, transparent, and does not emit harmful substances when heated. Depending on the manufacturer’s requirements, the standard composition can be supplemented and reinforced with impact-resistant, light-transmitting, heat-resistant or other components. Plexiglas deflectors can be painted and tinted.
- Synthetic polymers are high molecular weight inorganic compounds. They are characterized by elasticity, low fragility, resistance to aggressive environments and relatively low cost.
Depending on the material used and the manufacturer, deflectors are divided into quality levels:
- Branded deflectors. Produced at automobile manufacturing plants. Designed for installation on specific models, made taking into account the integrity of the design.
- Middle class deflectors. Manufactured by chemical industry enterprises. Characterized by a high or medium level of quality. They are divided by car make and model, but can also be universal, which is recommended to be purchased only if it is not possible to select branded ones. This segment includes deflectors manufactured in China. The price is significantly lower than branded products.
- Deflectors are of low quality. Handicraft products are low cost. Most often they do not have characteristic bends, and, therefore, are not able to perform their main function. Installation of such deflectors is extremely difficult due to mismatched mounting holes.
In addition, a high-quality deflector can have either a standard tint or a color that matches the color of the body or is completely different from it. A deflector with a strip of chromed plastic or stainless steel located at the top gives the car a more expensive look.
What it is
First, let's try to understand the essence of such an element as a window deflector. It is considered an element of the vehicle body kit. In fact, this is a relatively small part made of a special polymer, that is, plastic.
The design is installed on the car in such a way as to protect the glass and provide some additional benefits. Products are made in different colors and textures. Some are stylized as chrome, others are simply made in the form of a black plate. There are quite a lot of stylistic solutions. But the most important thing is that all deflectors can be divided into original and universal. In the first case, parts are selected for a specific make and model of car, while the second can be used on different cars.
Here I would immediately like to dwell on the issue of choosing between original and universal models. Which do you think is better? The choice is obvious. It’s worth buying original ones or model ones, adapted for a specific car.
Choosing original elements guarantees an exact match in size. You don’t have to cut anything, bend it, push it in or carry out other complex manipulations that often lead to a crooked result or breakage of the deflector. In the hands of the driver or while driving.
As for cars, wind deflectors can be used on almost every make and model. For example, elements look great on cars such as:
- Chevrolet Cruze sedan;
- Volkswagen Polo;
- Chevrolet Lacetti;
- VAZ model range;
- Hyundai Solaris first generation;
- Volkswagen Tiguan;
- Toyota Rav 4;
- Chevrolet Niva;
- Land Rover Discovery Sport, etc.
There should be no problems with choosing model windshields. Here you just need to contact trusted manufacturers like Sim, Voron Glass or EGR, go through their catalogs or choose specifically by car model.
As a result, you can find a design like ca plastic 2010030301464 specifically for the Chevrolet Aveo, or something like KIA r8222h0300 for the Kia Rio X-line 2021.
Why install a deflector on the hood of a car?
The deflector, installed on the hood of the car, is mounted above the headlights and performs the following functions:
- increases the speed of the car on the highway by reducing resistance to air flow;
- changes the trajectory of small objects in the air flow, thereby protecting the hood and windshield from damage;
- minimizes contamination of the windshield by insects, wet dirt and dust by deflecting the air flow;
- changes the appearance of the car.
In addition, to adjust the design, you can choose brightly colored deflectors or install tinted ones, which will give the car a more presentable look.
Pros and cons of a deflector on the hood
Installing a deflector on the hood of a car has its advantages:
- reducing the risk of damage to the windshield and hood,
- increasing the service life of windshield wiper blades,
- saving washer fluid,
- creating an individual car style.
It is important to remember that all positive effects occur when driving on the highway at a speed of more than 90 km/h.
The disadvantages include:
- when driving at a speed of less than 90 km/h, aerodynamic functions are not provided;
- an incorrectly installed deflector or the use of a low-quality part will inevitably damage the paint on the hood;
- the inside of an incorrectly installed or universal deflector becomes clogged with leaves, snow or moisture, which provokes corrosion;
- The warranty for the operation of a new car is automatically canceled if you install the part yourself;
- installing a deflector that is not suitable for the brand or model may result in vibration and destruction of the paint layer;
- does not protect against medium and large stones.
In addition, an improperly secured deflector can be torn off by the oncoming air flow while driving.
Advantages and disadvantages of car deflectors
To decide whether you need to install a deflector kit on your car, you need to evaluate the pros and cons of these items. The following positive factors should be noted:
- improving the appearance of the car;
- effective protection against small stones and insects during high-speed driving;
- low cost of tuning;
- simple installation that does not require the use of special tools;
- an extensive range of models, including dark, light and chrome options.
There are significantly fewer disadvantages in installing deflectors, but still drivers who have already installed these parts note:
- lack of a protective effect when driving at low speeds - however, this was to be expected, since the force of the air flow in low-speed driving mode is not sufficient to pick up and remove oncoming debris;
- damage to the paint layer due to inaccurate installation or the shape of the deflector not matching the curves of the body;
- the appearance of noise and vibration during high-speed driving.
To avoid scratches and vibration, you need to choose the right fly swatter model and securely attach it to your car.
It is best to buy deflectors specifically designed for your car model and avoid cheap but low-quality products from no-name manufacturers.
Deflectors for car windows
The deflector installed on the side window of the car is mounted at the top of the door above the glass and performs the following functions:
- prevents dust and debris from entering the cabin;
- protects against snow and rain when the glass is lowered by 3–5 cm;
- promotes better ventilation of the interior due to the movement of directed flows, thereby preventing fogging of the windows;
- redirects the air flow, protects the face of the driver and passengers from the head wind;
- protects from direct sunlight;
- prevents moisture and dirt from entering the interior while cleaning the windshield.
Quality deflectors change the appearance of the car and work well with the hood deflector.
Pros and cons of deflectors on windows
Installing a deflector on car windows has its advantages:
- more comfortable conditions in the cabin;
- saving money on interior cleaning;
- creating an individual car style.
It is important that the effects occur when driving at a speed of 60 km/h.
The disadvantages include:
- difficulty in precise selection and installation;
- loss of warranty for the operation of a new car if you install the part yourself.
If installed incorrectly, there is also a risk of the structure being torn down by the wind.
Types of deflectors for a car
While driving, the air flow surrounds the car from almost all sides. This means that dust and dirt can penetrate from any part of the car.
That is why deflectors are divided into types. Basically, they are divided according to the place of installation, and then each type is further divided into some subspecies. For example, the material of the part or the installation method.
So, deflectors according to their main type are divided into:
- side window deflectors;
- windshield deflector;
- rear window deflector;
- radiator deflector;
- hood deflector;
- hatch deflector;
- headlight deflector
Each type differs from the other type in shape, installation location, installation method, price and material. More details about the above details can be found below.
Side window deflectors
People call them “wind deflectors” in another way.
Deflectors on car windows protect passengers from various litter and debris flying along with the wind flow.
They are also able to protect against precipitation from unpleasant weather.
They help to filter the air more efficiently, providing almost ideal air circulation, which prevents the glass from sweating.
Side window deflectors are divided according to installation method into:
- plug-in;
- invoices.
The most popular wind deflectors are overhead deflectors. This is due to the fact that the inserts can greatly affect the raising or lowering of the glass. Overhead windshields do not affect this in any way, but they are inferior in reliability to plug-in windshields.
Also, these parts perfectly improve the appearance of the car. Especially if the owner has taste and was able to choose the ideal windshields for his car.
In addition, side window deflectors make the most attractive appearance of a car compared to others, losing only to hood deflectors.
Windshield deflectors
Windshield deflectors are not as popular as others, but, nevertheless, they also have a number of advantages.
Thus, they protect the interior from dirty water entering from the front window of the car.
Once installed, some people may not even notice them. Although they also decorate the car, making it more attractive. There are no subspecies for this type of deflector, but they are made mainly of plastic.
When driving around the city, they can only help in improving the appearance. But when driving on the highway at high speed, no driver will regret the money spent on it, especially if the driving is done in bad weather.
Rear window deflectors
Rear window deflectors are used mainly to protect against precipitation, dust, gravel and the like. After installing such a part, the rear window will be much easier to clean. And there won’t be a frequent need for this.
Most models of this deflector have an aerodynamic shape, which makes it much easier to control the car, especially at high speed.
Also, the rear window deflector has an additional function, which was often noted by passengers sitting in the rear seat.
They said that this device perfectly protects from sunlight, preventing overheating inside the cabin.
The last property is that the part is capable of reflecting glare on brake lights.
Radiator deflectors
This type of deflector is needed specifically for protection. The radiator can sometimes be quite the vulnerable point of a car. To do this, install a special deflector on the radiator. It provides good protection from gravel, dust and even snow during the winter season.
Such a deflector will need to be changed frequently if the driver is an off-road enthusiast. But the radiator will be intact and safe.
Hood deflectors
Such parts have an alternative name “fly swatter”. Nowadays they are used to make the car look cooler and more presentable. And this is not just like that. The deflector located on the hood is very noticeable, and the car looks much more powerful in appearance.
But it also has another function. When driving, the part protects the hood from stones and other debris, preventing the paint on the car from being scratched. It also deflects the air flow, which prevents the windshield from getting dirty. In most cases it is made of acrylic glass.
However, this part can easily fall out of place if a person attaches it incorrectly. Also, if after installing the deflector there is any vibration when moving, then most likely the whole point is that the new part was installed incorrectly.
Another disadvantage of such a device is that the downforce on the front part is reduced. This greatly affects the maneuverability of the machine.
To avoid this, hood deflectors should only be installed in approved workshops.
Hatch deflectors
Only owners of cars with the top slightly open should think about purchasing sunroof protection. This part is installed only to prevent dirt and dust from entering the car interior.
Opinions differ radically regarding the attractive appearance. Many people think that sunroof deflectors spoil the appearance, others are inclined to think that the car becomes more attractive.
Headlight deflectors
Headlight deflectors perfectly protect them from stones while driving. They also provide good protection against insects.
Therefore, after installing the protection, the headlights will be much easier to wipe. If the protection cracks, you can simply replace it. It's easier than replacing the entire headlight.
Deflector mounting options
Depending on the method of installation on the car, deflectors are divided into two types:
- Plug-in – having mechanical fastening. Installation is carried out using a special clamp into factory holes or onto brackets. It is not always possible to install universal deflector models using this method.
- Overlays are parts with adhesive fastening. Installation using double-sided tape, special glue or adhesive base on certain points.
- Clamping - deflectors on an adhesive basis, completely adjacent to the body.
For restyling the hood, a deflector with mechanical fastening is preferable, and for side windows, an overlay or adhesive-based clamping device is more often used. A non-original insert-type deflector may make it difficult to raise and lower the glass.
Types of deflectors for car doors
You can find various windshields on sale, which differ in their shape, cost, manufacturer, the presence of additional accessories included, color and many other parameters. At the same time, the main criterion by which you should choose deflectors is the way they are installed on the car. The following types of windshields can be found on sale:
- Plug-in . These models are easier to install, but they perform worse in use. Wind deflectors are installed between the glass and the rubber seal, which is why they can cause inconvenience when opening/closing the glass on some car models;
- Invoices . This type of deflector is attached to the door frame and will take a little longer to install. Also, the installation of such windshields is somewhat more complicated, but if installed correctly, they will last longer and will not interfere with the car glass.
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When buying windshields in a store, you need to choose models that are suitable specifically for your car. It is better to give preference to deflector options from well-known manufacturers. In most cases, such models are equipped with consumables that will be required to install the product.
How to install deflectors yourself
Before purchasing a deflector for self-installation, you should check:
- compliance of the part with the curves of the car;
- correspondence of mounting holes to brackets or clips;
- combination of color and appearance of the deflector and the car;
- availability of components.
The installation procedure for a deflector with mechanical fastening consists of several stages:
- clean the installation area from dust and dirt;
- attach the part to the surface of the body, mark the attachment points with a marker;
- Apply adhesive tapes to the marked points;
- mount the fasteners on the part in accordance with the markings;
- install a deflector, glue in protective silicone shock absorbers;
- secure the staples;
- install rubber gaskets under the screws and firmly fix the structure.
Installing the deflector on the adhesive base is as follows:
- clean the installation area from dust and dirt, wipe dry;
- attach the part, mark the attachment points;
- use a hairdryer to heat the adhesive base on the deflector;
- secure the part;
- Remove remaining adhesive with a solution recommended by the manufacturer to avoid debris sticking.
Upon completion of installation, it is important to check:
- no contact with the metal parts of the deflector mounting and the car body to avoid damage to the paintwork;
- no vibration;
- the gap between the deflector and the hood must be at least 1 cm - this way debris and moisture will not be retained;
- There should be no gap between the deflector and the side window - otherwise the risk of structural failure increases.
Thus, the aerodynamic functions of the deflector practically do not work in the everyday rhythm of city life. However, such restyling gives the car a presentable appearance, protects it from damage to a certain extent and increases the comfort of the driver and passengers during the trip. And installing a part yourself is a creative process and not at all complicated.
Rules for choosing a device
When choosing, you should make sure that the deflector matches the car in style, color and design. The device should not stand out against the background of the car body, but emphasize its features.
Next you need to pay attention to the size of the element and the type of its fastening. It is important to ensure that the deflector fits the specific part of the car and will not subsequently vibrate or rattle.
Main selection criteria:
- the quality of the material and the type of fastening of the element; The bending angle of the deflector wing must exactly correspond to the angle of inclination of the plane of the car body. Otherwise, it will break under wind pressure or simply fly off at high speed.
Such troubles mainly occur with universal devices, which, according to manufacturers, are suitable for almost any car.
How to choose the ideal deflector?
In order for the deflector to perform not only a protective function, but also an attractive one, you should select such parts so that they match in shape, color, and style.
The main thing is that the device does not stand out too much, but seems one with the car.
It is equally important that the part fits the place where it should stand. If the part is selected incorrectly, it will fly off during movement or will vibrate strongly.
Basically, you should select a deflector according to the following criteria:
- The deflector matches the curves of the car.
- The deflector corresponds to the grooves of the mounting location.
- The deflector matches the design and color of the car.
There are universal parts that should fit any vehicle. It is better to buy such deflectors if parts specifically for a given car are not available anywhere.
