Hood deflector: why is it needed, pros and cons, do-it-yourself installation

The driver can do many car-related operations on his own, without resorting to expensive car service services. This also applies to installing a deflector on the hood. So, if you thoroughly understand how to carry it out, the entire installation procedure will take, at most, half an hour. This material, focused on practical assistance to a wide range of motorists, is devoted to the features and subtleties of such an installation.

Installing a deflector on a car hood.

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.

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.

Options for covering a car with protective film

Full anti-gravel film covering the front of the car

Is it possible to drive without a hood?

• Front bumper
• Entire hood
• Entire front wings
• Mirrors
• Door handle cavities

Such protection will minimize the likelihood of damage to the front of the car during operation. This pasting option is designated in our price list as Package No. 1.

Partial anti-gravel film covering the front of the car

• Front bumper
• Stripe 35-40 cm on the hood
• Stripe 35-40 cm on the front wings
• Mirrors
• Door handle cavities

This kind of protection can be called basic; the film is applied to the surfaces most susceptible to damage during vehicle operation. This pasting option is designated in our price list as Package No. 2.

Selective wrapping of car parts

• Front struts
• Roof
• Headlights
• Fog lights
• Thresholds
• Tail lights and reflectors
• Rear bumper loading and unloading area
• Door handle cavities

These and many other small parts also need protection. We can install protective film on any part of the car of your choice. You can find out the cost of applying protective film to car parts in our price list.

We can also offer you the option of a full car body wrap, which covers all parts of the car - from the hood to the windshield frames - and reduces the likelihood of chips and scratches by 99%. Check the cost by calling the numbers listed on the website.

Installation of a chimney on the roof

There are two options for installing the deflector: connecting directly to the smoke duct and mounting it on a piece of pipe, which is later put on the chimney. The second method is considered the best in terms of convenience and safety, because the most troublesome stage of the work is performed on the ground, and not on the roof.

Standards according to GOST

Excerpts from current regulatory documents regarding the installation of a deflector on a pipe inform about the following:

• any nozzles on the smoke channel must be mounted in such a way that they do not block the path of fuel combustion products;
• on a flat roof, the mouth of the pipe should be placed above the fence;
• on a roof with slopes, the chimney head must be located above the ridge, if the space between them is less than one and a half meters, or at the level of the ridge, when the gap from the pipe to the highest point of the roof varies within three meters;
• the deflector must not be installed in an area where an aerodynamic shadow is created due to neighboring buildings;
• the device body must be well ventilated regardless of the wind direction;
• rotating deflectors are not suitable for chimneys of stoves located in houses built in areas with cold winters;
• installation of a round deflector on a brick chimney involves the use of special transition pipes.

Required Tools

To install the deflector on the smoke duct, you need to find some tools and fasteners:

• electric drill;
• open-end wrenches;
• threaded rods;
• nuts;
• clamps;
• two ladders (one for climbing to the roof, and the other for moving along the roof).

In addition, to install the device on the chimney you will need a piece of pipe. Its diameter should be slightly larger than the size of the smoke channel.

Deflector mounting

The chimney is connected to the pipe, performing certain tasks:

1. On the prepared section of pipe, 10 cm from the edge, mark the points where you need to drill holes for fasteners. Similar marks are left on a wide area of ​​the diffuser.
2. Holes are made in the pipe section and diffuser with a drill. The parts are temporarily connected to each other, checking that the upper and lower holes match. If this is not observed, then the product is considered defective, because the fastening elements cannot be inserted smoothly.
3. Pins are inserted into the holes. On both sides, both on the diffuser and on the piece of pipe, the fasteners are secured with nuts. They are twisted evenly to protect the product from deformation.
4. With the manufactured device they are sent to the roof. The structure is placed on the smoke duct and tightened with clamps.

If you are installing a deflector on a brick chimney, you will have to arm yourself with nails and a hammer.
Proceeding as written above, you can mount any device except a weather vane deflector, since its design is rather non-standard.

In the case of using a device with a compass rose, 3 holes are created in the smoke channel with a drill. The holes are made at the same level so that bolts can be inserted into them a little later. These fasteners are immersed in the holes when the ring part of the deflector-vane is placed into the cut of the chimney. An axle is inserted into a bearing in the form of a ring, and a cylinder, a device blade and a cap are alternately attached to it. The elements of the weather vane deflector are combined with brackets or rivets.

Instructions for installing window deflectors without gluing

There are many ways to attach windshields, sometimes there are ones that do not have an adhesive strip or fasteners. On a number of VAZ car models, cutters can be installed without any fasteners. What it looks like: the plates are of such a size that when fixed, their edges rest against the corners of the window frames. At this time, the side is held in place by a glass seal or so-called velvet.

1. Lower the glass a little before installation.
2. Arm yourself with a thin plate of durable material.
3. Pry up the seal on the outside of the window where the fairing will be attached and peel it off.

The rubber band does not stick on its own, but there is a possibility that it will stick to the anti-corrosion lubricant. It is used to treat the window frame after painting. Slightly bend the windshield in the middle part, insert the outer side into the gap between the door frame and the seal. Raise and lower the glass - if the cutter is installed correctly, it will fit freely into the seal groove.

How to choose the right plastic cover?

Today, in car stores there are a large number of deflectors that differ not only in shape and size, but also in color. Thanks to this variety, the motorist can choose a fly swatter that best suits his requirements. However, do not forget about the selection rules. The main thing you should pay attention to when purchasing is the external condition of the plastic deflector.

How to install deflectors on windows

Depending on whether plug-in or surface-mounted deflectors are used, you need to know the features of their installation, as well as how the process of installing the accessory itself occurs.
Important: When installing deflectors, do not forget to monitor visibility from the car. They need to be mounted so that they do not block the view of the road

How to install plug-in deflectors

Plug-in deflectors are attached under the door frame - in the groove where the glass fits when lifted. To install them, you need:

1. Lower the window;
2. Insert the windshield, slightly bending it according to the shape of the door, if installed on the front door of the car. It is worth noting that on the front door the deflector is held in place largely due to this bend, while on the rear door it is held mainly by a gluing element;
3. Make sure that the deflector has a sufficiently ground part that fits into the groove. If this is not the case, then the car window will not close completely and, moreover, will constantly scratch against the deflector. It is necessary that the glass does not touch the deflector when raising and lowering or does so minimally;
4. Having tried on the windshield, you need to secure it. If there is adhesive tape on it, then use it. In the option where it is missing, you will have to use your own double-sided tape. Also, some deflectors have special rivets for fastening.

After installing the wind deflector, make sure that the glass closes smoothly and that the installation of the deflector does not affect the operation of the lifts.

It should be noted that plug-in deflectors can fall off at any time, and drivers don’t particularly like them for this. The fact is that at high or low temperatures the adhesive base loses its properties when connected to the groove.

How to install overhead deflectors

Installing overhead deflectors is a little more difficult and requires some tools. However, when installed correctly, surface-mounted deflectors will last much longer than plug-in deflectors, and they do not have any effect on the operation of the window regulator, also eliminating the risk of scratches on the glass due to wind deflectors.

To install overhead deflectors, you must:

1. Clean the car well, and most importantly the places where the deflectors will be attached;
2. When the car is washed, wipe dry again with a lint-free cloth (you should also not use a sponge) where the deflectors are installed;
3. Degrease the places where the windshields are installed. It is best to use ethyl alcohol or regular vodka for this. To degrease, wipe the surface with alcohol applied to paper napkins, not sponges, for maximum effect;
4. Next you need to choose a place to mount the deflector. To do this, attach it and roughly figure out how it should be positioned so that it does not block the view from the cabin and performs the functions assigned to it. Some drivers prefer to install deflectors in the lower or upper corner, others limit themselves to the middle option. Determine the optimal mounting location for yourself and make small marks on the car body with chalk or a pencil to make it easier to navigate where to attach the part during installation;
5. After this, the protective film is removed from the tape, and the deflector is installed in the marked place. Experts and experienced drivers recommend doing one of the following before gluing the windshield:
   Warm up the adhesive tape and the attachment point a little with a hairdryer. The slightly melted adhesive base of the deflector will attach better to a warm surface, and it will hang longer;
6. Add extra stickiness to the tape using quick-release adhesive. You need to apply a little Moment glue or something similar to the adhesive surface. In this case, it is better not to apply glue over the entire surface, otherwise later there will be difficulties with cleaning it if the deflector needs to be replaced. Apply a few peas of glue every 5 centimeters.

After installing the deflector, you need to give some time for the adhesive base to dry. It is better not to use the car for at least 3 hours, and you will have to refrain from washing it for 3-4 days.

(425 votes, average: 4.56 out of 5)

Methods of protection

If you are really concerned about the integrity and safety of the car body, I strongly recommend that you carefully study this material, consider all the proposed protection options and evaluate the degree of their effectiveness specifically in your case.

It is important to understand that in the city and especially on the highway, no one is safe from a stone, a piece of some object, or various road debris flying into the car. The higher the speed, the worse the damage will be. This is elementary physics, the details of which do not make sense. The main thing here is the cost of collisions with such phenomena. The hood is constantly exposed to negative influences. Constant washing and applying polishes will not help. It is also too expensive to repaint an element or change part of the body once a season.

An obvious consequence of constant chips and scratches on the hood will be the search for an answer to the question of how to remove saffron milk caps on the body. We have already talked about this. But it is objectively simpler and more correct to prevent their occurrence.

There is another solution. It involves the use of protective equipment.

Protection for the hood and body is divided into 2 large categories. These are mechanical and chemical means.

If you have encountered similar solutions yourself, be sure to leave feedback. Write down what means you would recommend using, and what you consider useless and ineffective.

Now we’ll talk about each type of hood protection separately.

Fly swatter installation procedure

Things to consider before installation

Before gluing the deflectors to the car, you should evaluate the condition of the hood edge.

Corroded areas should be cleaned, treated with a rust converter, puttied, primed and painted. The device should not be placed on rusty surfaces, as moisture almost always accumulates under the device. This will lead to the final destruction of the metal within several months.

The second factor to consider is the speed at which you plan to travel. On relatively low-speed vehicles, installation of deflectors can be carried out using adhesive tape or standard fasteners. For high-speed vehicles, additional fastenings should be made.

If installation is planned using glue or tape, the temperature in the room where the work is being carried out must be at least 10 °C. Otherwise, the fixing compounds will not stick to the paintwork and the deflector will fall off at the first shake. Installation using mechanical clips or bolts can be done at any temperature.

Instructions for installing deflectors on tape

How to install a deflector on a car hood without damaging the paint? Some car owners use double-sided tape for this. The installation procedure is quite simple.

The edge of the hood and the edge of the deflector, which will be adjacent to the car, are degreased with alcohol and dried. After this, a strip of double-sided tape cut to shape is glued onto the fly swatter. The prepared visor is carefully applied to the car and pressed tightly. The work is considered completed.

For clips

The hood visor usually comes with fixing clips, which are the standard method of fastening. To install the device using them, insert the corresponding bolts into the holes on the fly swatter, and then screw them into the wells using clips. The mounting devices themselves are fixed to the hood using clamping screws. The latter can damage the paintwork. To prevent this, a protective strip of thick tape or self-adhesive sound insulation is glued under them.

There is often a gap left between the deflector and the hood. While moving, the wind gets into it, which can lead to the lining being torn off. On older cars, the condition of the paintwork of which the owner is not too concerned about, this gap can be sealed with silicone sealant. The risk of losing the fly swatter will be significantly reduced.

Installation with internal spacer mounting

As an additional fastening when installing a hood deflector, the method usually practiced when installing window visors can be used - installation with fasteners using a spacer. After installing the device on the clips, specially prepared metal strips shaped like a cone are inserted through it.

The spacers should be installed so that they rest against the metal of the body and the inside of the deflector. Properly installed, this device slightly changes the angle of the deflector and allows you to adjust the direction of the air flow.

How to install a deflector on the hood without damaging the paint

How to install deflectors without damaging the varnish? To protect the coating, the area where work is being carried out can be covered with wax or covered with thin sound insulation. After installation is completed, the protective layer, which remains open, can be removed. The areas of the protective coating located under the deflector will continue to perform their function.

The height of the towbar ball from the ground: what should be the correct height?

• Option one. Using adhesive tape. It is already applied to the part by the manufacturer, so you only need to remove the protective film. The method is simple, since you need to degrease the surface and attach the part to the car. But such fastening is not highly reliable and durable. And after dismantling you will have to try to remove the remaining glue;
• Option two. Brackets. Simple and safe for the car. The brackets are already included. Installation is carried out without damage to the hood. No need to use additional glue. Plus the brackets allow you to change the gap as needed. Attach the fly swatter to the car, make marks for fastening. At these points, glue the protective film (this will protect the paint), and then install the fasteners. It is advisable to additionally use silicone dampers under the deflector, which will dampen vibrations and protect against noise;
• Option three. Only for barbarians. This method involves drilling the hood for self-tapping screws. I immediately recommend abandoning this method, since it will not give anything good.

I recommend applying an anti-gravel coating as an additional measure to protect the bottom of the machine. In combination with a properly selected deflector, the result will be beyond your expectations. It is still unpleasant when the paint layer is damaged due to debris on the road. These measures will minimize damage.

That's all for me. Thank you all for your attention!

How to glue deflectors to side windows

Attaching cutters to side windows has its own algorithm of actions. Remember it so that in the future you will know how to glue deflectors to machine doors. In this case, you will not have to tear off the plates, clean the places where they are attached, or re-glue the parts. Moreover, this will have to be done as quickly as possible so that the glue does not have time to set strongly.

Remove the fairings from the protective packaging - the plastic film that envelops the plates on both sides. The film is not removed from the adhesive strip. It will be more convenient to call someone for help - together the work will go faster, and it will be more convenient for you to do the installation. Try on the parts to the areas where you will install them. Do this simultaneously on the front and rear doors, determining the fixation points as accurately as possible. Clean the door edge where it is glued, degrease it using a rag soaked in solvent

Often, a set of windshields is equipped with a napkin soaked in a special solution. In the front and back parts of the windshield, remove the protective strips from the adhesive layer by approximately 3-4 centimeters. Lift the ends of the film, then carefully place the windshield in the desired place and press its edges. Make sure the part is installed properly. Remove any remaining protective film from the remaining adhesive strip. Gently press the cutter to the door edge along its entire length, press the parts and hold for 5 minutes. Move to the next door and apply the windshields in the same way.

An affordable way to improve the aerodynamics of a VAZ - Lada 2110, 1.6 l., 2002 on DRIVE2

For a comparative test in the wind tunnel of the Dmitrov Automotive Test Site, we assembled five “tens” equipped with different sets of attachments. Three sets - Lada Lady, Titan and Courage - come from Togliatti, and Stalker and Junior were created in Moscow. In addition, we decided to “blow” the VAZ-21106 in the pipe - a “charged” car with an Opel engine and a modified body and suspension, which is produced in small batches in Togliatti. After all, the “one hundred and sixth” can be considered the result of deep tuning of the “ten”. Moreover, factory tuning... Surprises began already when calculating the aerodynamic drag coefficient Cx. Of course, we have noticed before how much the installation of even the simplest “fly swatter” on the hood affects the aerodynamics of the car (see AR No. 23, 1999). But they couldn’t imagine that the spread of Cx values ​​in the tuning “ten” would be so large - up to 20%! Fortunately, the surprises were mostly pleasant. Firstly, four sets out of five helped to significantly reduce Cx. The best here was the VAZ-2110 Lada Lady with an excellent result of 0.315. And the obvious outsider turned out to be... VAZ-21106. It seems that the creators of this car simply did not pay attention to the value of Cx, believing that the two-liter Opel engine would easily overcome the drag force of “one hundred and six”, which was much greater than that of a regular “ten”. The second pleasant surprise was the reduction in lifting force: all the tuning “tens” outright beat the standard car. The Junior and Courage kits turned out to be the best - setting them to “ten” can reduce the lifting force by 5 and 7 times, respectively! Moreover, the creators of Courage were able to achieve this result in parallel with a significant reduction in the drag coefficient, which can be considered an excellent result. But the designers who designed the Junior managed to press the car to the road, only by increasing its drag. The picture with the distribution of lifting force along the axes was not so rosy. To accurately record the distribution of lift forces that act on the front and rear of the vehicle, the so-called tipping moment is measured. Ideally, it should be equal to zero - this means that the lifting force affects the front and rear wheels equally. So, only the VAZ-21106 and, to a lesser extent, cars with the Titan and Courage kits were able to maintain the distribution of lift along the axes, characteristic of the standard “ten”. And in cars with the Junior, Lada Lady and, especially, Stalker kits, a significant downforce acting on the front axle is combined with a strong unloading of the rear wheels. At high speeds, this can increase the tendency of the “ten” to skid. So, which tuning option is better - of course, not from an aesthetic point of view (we won’t argue about tastes now), but from the standpoint of aerodynamics? The Lada Lady, Courage and Titan kits are especially good - they will help owners of the “ten” save fuel and reach a higher maximum speed. Installing the Junior kit will also not harm the aerodynamics of the “ten” - in any case, thanks to a noticeable decrease in the turning torque, the car should become more reliable in handling at high speeds. But we would recommend that the developers of the Stalker kit still work on aerodynamics and optimize the distribution of lift force along the axes.

And yet, how did the small tuning companies that developed and produce these body kits achieve such impressive aerodynamic success? Unfortunately, none of them used a wind tunnel. As some of the authors admitted to us, they created their spoilers and wings in the image and likeness of body kits on cars of foreign tuning companies. And it worked! Apparently, the main thing is to choose the right role model...

PSC February 23rd guys! Who else if not us =)

Functional purpose of windshields

The deflector is a compact pad that is mounted on the hood and side windows of the car. This device performs the following functions:

• protects the body and windows from dirt, stones, insects and other small particles that, together with oncoming air, hit the car;
• prevent the penetration of raindrops when the window is open;
• prevent the occurrence of drafts in the cabin, thereby improving the ventilation of the interior space;
• provide additional sound insulation of the cabin.

Wind deflectors are mounted in areas that experience maximum air pressure while driving. Therefore, deflectors must be fixed on reliable fasteners. Windshields come in plug-in and overhead types. The first option is suitable for those who do not want to waste time installing a deflector. However, this type of windshield is not suitable for all cars and is not securely fastened. Overhead deflectors are attached with glue and last longer.

pros

So let's start with the benefits. Firstly, a fly swatter can protect the front part of the hood from various stone impacts, dents, scratches and other mechanical damage. Secondly, the hood trim can significantly reduce the wear of the windshield wiper on the windshield (after all, there will be much fewer insects on its surface than before). Thirdly, a fly swatter can protect the surface of the windows and hood from greasy stains that insects leave behind during a collision. That is, your car becomes much cleaner.

Deflector sticker

This method of fastening is much more reliable. Its only drawback is the more complex execution process. But, at the same time, there is no need to select the part by thickness. Typically, such windshields are universal, which allows you to use the option you like best for your car.

The work is carried out in the following order:

First you need to degrease the deflector mounting area on the front doors; We apply the visor and see how it stands up; Peel off the protective tape from the adhesive tape that is attached to the edges of the windshield and is intended for fastening it; Carefully attach the part into place. Don't press the windshield too hard right away. You must first evaluate the correctness of the fastening. If necessary, you need to adjust the deflector and secure it completely; It remains to install additional latches connecting the deflector and the door; Before installing the windshield on the rear door, try it on first.

You need to pay attention to its position relative to the front door. In some cases it may prevent doors from opening

Choose a position in which the doors will open without problems; Degrease the surface of the door, for example, alcohol is suitable for this; Otherwise, the steps described above are repeated.

Deflectors designed for gluing hold more firmly. This happens due to additional fastening in the form of latches.

Benefits of using a fly swatter on the hood of a car.

The main advantage of installing a fly swatter is to protect the hood of your car from stones and small insects that accidentally fall on it while driving, which so abundantly fly into the headlights when driving on a night road. In order to restore the paintwork on the hood, which has been damaged by flies and mosquitoes, you can try polishing the body yourself.

The history of the appearance of the fly swatter.

The fly swatter, in its modern form, was developed in the southern states of America, where there are a huge number of small insects, which are very difficult to control even with the help of a special liquid. In addition, it must be emphasized that individual insects, after falling on the surface of the car, leave chemical active components of their own body, which corrode the paintwork. For this reason, similar accessories for cars were developed - fly swatters, which, when used correctly in combination with special cleaning and washing liquids against insects, could ensure the safety of the car surface.

If you prefer to do all the work yourself, then these articles are for you: Selecting and installing windshields on a car, polishing glass with your own hands, Installing parking sensors with your own hands.

Is a fly swatter necessary in our country?

In some regions of our vast country, the fly swatter has become extremely popular among car enthusiasts. The southern regions suffer in summer from an abundance of locusts, which destroy crops and multiply in huge numbers. Due to its large size, this insect, when colliding with a car, may well cause damage to the integrity of the paintwork. Therefore, many consider the use of a fly swatter on a car to be a necessary measure.

Installing a fly swatter on the hood of a car

With the right approach, installing a fly swatter will not require any special skills from you and will take no more than 10 minutes. In this case, you do not need to make special holes for mounting on the hood of the car. Modern modifications of fly swatters use modern methods based on “gluing” for fastening. Special fasteners are used for specific car models

It is important to remember that when placing a fly swatter, it must be installed at a distance necessary to drain the water flow along the base of the car

Choosing a fly swatter for a car.

Modern fly swatters for cars are distinguished by a variety of colors, sizes and shapes, which, without a doubt, will satisfy even the most demanding car owner. The main sign of high quality workmanship is the absence of external damage and air bubbles on the fly swatter. The presence of the above listed shortcomings significantly reduces the reliability of the element installed on the car; it is likely that in the future it will begin to deteriorate and lose its beautiful appearance.

Preparing the surface and car for installation

In order to beautifully glue deflectors on car doors, you need dry, warm weather of at least +15°C. Place everything you need for work next to the machine:

• construction hair dryer;
• set of wind deflectors;
• adhesive tape, preferably SA-Plastik, AutoAx, SIM;
• dry rags;
• technical solvent.

Prepare the surface of the side windows:

1. Wash your car, carefully going over the areas you will be working on.
2. Wipe the fastening points of the windshields with solvent.
3. If the body panel has previously been polished using wax or paraffin mastics, clean the areas where the fairings are glued more thoroughly.

What are deflectors used for?

As I already said, the main task is to change and deflect the air flow so that it does not interfere with the driver or, on the contrary, works for the benefit of the car. I will briefly list the main capabilities of windshields.

Protection from dirt and moisture

Some cars have rather poorly thought out aerodynamics; as a result, the car or some of its parts become very dirty in rainy or snowy weather. The task of the veterinarians is to correct this situation. For example, a hood deflector allows you to change the air flow so that all the dirt from under the wheels of the car in front flies just above the windshield of the car, thereby making your ride more comfortable and safe. In addition, it saves washer and wiper fluid on your car.

Side window deflectors also promote proper “swirl,” which means dirt and moisture don't fly as much onto the side windows. In addition, the side deflector prevents drops from flowing from the car roof onto the glass. The side window visors were also appreciated by those who like to smoke in the car. While driving, the oncoming air flow makes this activity unpleasant. The wind constantly knocks down the ashes, which fly into the car, and there are also frequent cases when the red-hot heat of a cigarette butt, instead of flying out the window, returned to the cabin, thereby creating big troubles...

Anti-fog

Among the many advantages, one can highlight good prevention of fogging of the side windows. Thus, the side deflector, forming the correct air flow, helps prevent fogging of the car windows.

Comfort while driving

Those who like to drive with the windows slightly open will also appreciate car window deflectors, as they create an even and soft barrier between the open window and the passenger compartment. The air does not hit your face and does not inflate everything in the cabin. In bad weather, deflectors prevent moisture from entering the cabin, you simply enjoy the fresh air.

Appearance

In addition to all the above advantages and disadvantages, deflectors are also a good way to stand out and make the appearance of your car more attractive. With the right approach, windshields emphasize the individuality and sophistication of a car's appearance.

Separately, I would like to highlight the hood deflectors, which are often installed individually, that is, without side visors. Deflectors of this type are also called “fly swatters”, because in the spring and summer, when there are a lot of insects, this device is a great help. By changing the direction of the oncoming air flow, it prevents the windshield from getting dirty. In addition to insects, small stones and sand fly into the car’s face, damaging the windshield and hood, so the benefits of a hood deflector can hardly be overestimated.

Before you buy a deflector, you should understand a few more things. First of all, you should clarify the method of attaching the deflector, as well as what material it is made of. Below we will talk about all this in more detail.

Based on the type of fastening, deflectors are divided into plug-in, adhesive, and those that are mounted on special brackets. As is already clear from the name, the first are inserted, the second are secured with glue, and the third are installed using special fasteners.

The first mounting option, as a rule, is typical for deflectors on car windows; it is good because it requires a minimum of effort and money. Installation is quick and easy; just insert the windshield correctly into the place where it is attached, after which it will lock into place. The disadvantages of this mounting option are that after some time the deflector may begin to dangle, creak, and even damage the glass or door seal.

The second type of fastening is more popular and occurs much more often. It involves attaching the deflectors with glue, the latter using high-quality double-sided tape, usually a product from 3M. The installation principle is simple and clear, we make markings, figure out how everything will look and fasten it. Next, we degrease the installation site and the wind deflector itself, after which we glue the tape onto the deflector and, with one precise movement, glue it to the place of further service.

The material from which the deflectors are made

Due to the purpose of the windshields, their design must be lightweight and at the same time durable. Therefore, polymer compounds, plastic and even carbon are most often used as materials. Polycarbonate windshields are the most common, most often they are transparent. Their cost and strength do not raise any questions, which is why they are very popular.

As for color, it's a matter of taste. The most common options are transparent, gray and completely black.

How does it work

Drivers are wondering if a deflector is needed. This question has long become rhetorical. The benefits of it on any trip are undeniable. So, if you attach it to the hood, its body will be a constant barrier to the path of hard stones, objects, sand, other particles, as well as various insects flying into the “face” of the car. Such “bombing” is often fraught with hard contact with the varnish and its damage. The deflector will absorb their forceful blows, which can sometimes be quite impressive in strength and speed. As a kind of “wing”, it will also correct the trajectory of the oncoming air flow directed into the car, throwing away a trail of all kinds of midges from the hood and windshield. And this is a guaranteed basis that sensitive and very vulnerable to external interference parts of the car, especially the front of the hood, will not be subject to any unwanted contacts and will retain their attractive appearance.

Price of car deflectors

The first thing to consider when choosing deflectors is their cost; it is unique for each car and, most often, good quality is not cheap. For example, simple wind deflectors from the manufacturer WeatherTec for the BMW X5 will cost from $50 to $100. The advantage of this manufacturer is that if one of the deflectors breaks, you can buy it separately, rather than buying the entire set.

Another manufacturer, Star, may offer chrome-plated deflectors made from durable steel. The cost of a full set will cost $140, and a pair will cost $70. Star also suggests buying a set in pairs if one of them breaks, rather than buying the entire set, thereby overpaying for unnecessary ones.

If you decide to purchase a budget option for a domestic car, then most often a set of four pieces will cost $10-20. It will not be difficult to find this type of windshields in the car market.

As a result, we can say that the deflector not only gives the car a better appearance, but also serves a practical purpose, protecting the interior and creating comfort.

Video of installation of car deflectors:

Advantages and disadvantages

The fly swatter functions for the hood are revealed when driving at high speeds. As for aesthetic indicators, this part has an amateurish appearance. Many car owners believe that the deflector spoils the appearance, while others, on the contrary, think that the accessory makes the car look aggressive.

Among the main advantages of the “fly swatter” one should highlight its direct purpose – protective functions against insects and various debris that cause mechanical damage.

Among the disadvantages are:

• Sand, small stones and dust getting stuck under the surface of the deflector. If the contamination is not cleaned in time, mechanical damage may occur.
• At increased speeds and when driving on uneven roads, the rattling of the fly swatter can be clearly heard.
• The aerodynamic properties of the car are reduced to some extent and fuel consumption increases.

The first and second drawbacks are related to incorrect installation of the accessory. If the deflector is installed correctly and firmly, you can avoid unwanted consequences from using an additional accessory.

Can it be installed on a chimney?

By installing a deflector, unlucky homeowners are trying to solve the problem of lack of draft. This happens when the chimney pipe is made incorrectly - the head falls into the zone of wind support of the roof, is raised to a low height, or a neighbor has built a tall building nearby.

The best solution for insufficient draft is to raise the chimney to the required height. Why is it undesirable to jam various attachments onto the head:

1. It is prohibited to place umbrellas and other exhaust devices on pipes that discharge combustion products from gas boilers. These are safety requirements.
2. When burning, stoves and solid fuel boilers emit soot that settles on the internal surfaces of chimneys and caps. The deflector will have to be cleaned, especially the rotating one.
3. At the bottom of a properly constructed smoke channel there is a pocket for collecting condensation and excess moisture. There is no point in covering the pipe from precipitation; it is enough to attach a nozzle at the end that protects the insulation of the sandwich.

The heads of stove flues can be equipped with umbrellas, but a turbo deflector is definitely not needed there. The topic of installing hoods on smoke exhaust ducts is covered in detail in a separate material.

Possible problems during installation/operation of deflectors

It is possible that the adhesive strip on the deflector, due to exceeding its shelf life, has completely or partially lost its adhesive properties. In such cases, you can use double-sided mounting tape, gluing it instead of the standard one. The main problem is to accurately cut the desired strip so that it does not protrude outward. As a rule, windshields glued with tape last no more than 5 years, eventually peeling off and requiring restoration measures. The procedure is simple, the deflector is removed by rocking, the old tape is removed, the surface is cleaned with a solvent, a new adhesive strip is glued on and the algorithm described above is repeated.

How to avoid installation problems

To ensure that no inconsistencies or troubles occur during the installation of side window deflectors, you must adhere to the following rules:

— When buying a kit, don’t be lazy to go through several options for deflectors, trying each of them on the car. Take those that are completely adjacent to the surface and the front ones are not too long so as not to block the rear view mirror.

— Installation of deflectors on a car in winter should be done in a warm, dry box.

- At any time of the year it is better to do this together. A second pair of hands will protect you from unexpected movement of the part while removing the protective tape and will make all stages of the work easier.

— If during installation the ambient temperature is less than +18-20°C, it is better to warm up the gluing area with a hair dryer:

• when heated to +60°C, the adhesive layer gains its design strength in a couple of hours;
• at +18-20°C this will take 2 days;
• at temperatures below +10°C, the bonding strength will not withstand the slightest impact.

— Based on the above, after installing the windshields, you should not get the car wet or use it for at least one day.

Disadvantages of using windbreaks

From the negative reviews about the deflectors, we can conclude that in some cases they really do not fit in with the design of the car, since they were clearly developed not by Giorgetto Giugiaro, but by Zhora Zharikov from a neighboring garage cooperative. A bad design is not so bad. It’s worse when the deflector blocks the working viewing area in the area of ​​the A-pillars, significantly reducing the viewing angle. And this can lead to dire consequences, for example, when crossing an intersection.

Imagine for a moment that the A-pillars were twice as wide. These are the two biggest problems that deflectors can cause. The price of windshields, of course, will not make a significant dent in the budget unless you covet really expensive and high-quality accessories. For example, Polish Heco windshields will cost 1,200-1,400 rubles per set, depending on the car model, and Australian EGR will cost 3.5 thousand per set on average.

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.

Preparing the machine surface before installation

Most models of windshields are produced together with an adhesive base designed to fix this device. Otherwise, you need to purchase specialized tape, which is preheated with a hair dryer.

In addition to a hair dryer, you will need a dry rag and a technical solvent to fix the plastic pads. After preparing the specified components, you will need to perform the following steps:

Wash the car body and windows, paying special attention to those areas where you need to stick plastic covers. Treat the body and windshields with a technical solvent, removing the fat layer. Carry out additional treatment of the body coated with wax polish or paraffin mastic.

Which adhesive for laminate is better to choose, application features and selection criteria

If the car has old deflectors, then to dismantle the deteriorated linings you will need:

Open and lock the side door. Using a heat gun, warm up the junction of the deflector and the car body

This procedure must be carried out with extreme caution. Overheating will cause the paintwork to peel off from the surface of the body. Pry up one of the ends of the old lining and insert the fishing line. Run the fishing line along the entire deflector, thus detaching the trim from the body

During this procedure, you should also be careful to avoid contact with the surface of the body. After dismantling the old windshield, treat the surface with a solvent.

If the old windshield is plug-in, then dismantling is carried out in two stages. First you need to pry one edge of the deflector, and then pull the plate towards you. At the end of this procedure, it is also necessary to clean the surface of the body.

New deflectors can be installed provided that the ambient temperature is above +10 degrees. The procedure is prohibited in winter. In the cold, the adhesive composition does not set, which is why the deflectors will fall off a few hours after installation.

Methods for protecting the hood from chips

Polishes

The service life of polishes may vary depending on their composition. For Teflon compounds, the service life is three months, while resin-based polishes protect the body for a year. This difference in timing is explained by the different reaction of the paint and varnish material with the composition of the protective substance.

Nanopolishing is considered the most durable and reliable: it keeps the paintwork intact for two to three years, while being resistant to chemical and physical influences.

Liquid glass

A protective composition applied to the surface of the car body and forming a durable glass film. This coating gives the car a mirror-like shine, protecting it from damage, repelling dirt, moisture and protecting it from environmental influences.

Japan is considered the main manufacturer of liquid glass - they produce Willson composition, the service life of which is up to three years. In the climatic conditions of our country, the shelf life of glass is reduced to one year.

Liquid case

However, such a protective composition has its drawbacks: a short service life - no more than 10 days, an unattractive appearance and the harmful effects of moisture, which forces the film to peel off.

Protective case

• The cover must be selected for the specific make and model of the car;
• There should be no moisture, dirt or debris between the car body and the cover, otherwise such proximity can lead to corrosion and rust.

Body protection accessories

Do not think that damage from road litter is harmless and is extremely rare. If the car is used and not parked in a garage, its body wears out and experiences harmful effects. Damage to the hood surface will subsequently be marked by a corrosion process. But a more unpleasant situation is when small stones hit the front window. The resulting chip or scratch in sunny weather will make itself felt by refracting light and blinding the driver. If this damage is left unattended, a gradually growing crack will appear on the glass. Thus, delaying restoration will entail more financial costs.

In order to reduce the risk of damage to the front part of the body, special protective devices were developed - deflectors. The design of this part follows the line of the hood edge. With its slightly bent upper part, the deflector prevents the flow of air with abrasive particles and directs it above the hood and windshield. Due to this feature, this protective element is called a “windbreaker”. There are also deflectors to protect the side windows and headlights.

Sometimes some car owners hesitate to install deflectors because they are not sure that they can install them correctly. Knowledge of the rules for fastening them and taking into account some of the nuances that you may encounter during the installation process will help in this matter.

Why is this necessary?

The idea of ​​​​creating the first deflectors was due to the fact that new cars became noticeably faster. The speed of movement has increased, so we had to think about the use of aerodynamics in civilian and sports cars.

In the same way, an air intake appeared at one time, and now we can buy magnificent bumper covers from Maxton Design.

The first car body models were angular and clumsy. The car had difficulty resisting the flow of oncoming air. Gradually the speed increased. Engineers realized that the cars needed to be made more streamlined and aerodynamic.

For example, do you know that even the current paintwork on cars plays not only a decorative role, but also helps reduce air friction? The car literally cuts air flow, which has a positive effect on speed, controllability and maneuverability. But due to the improvement in streamlining, oncoming debris, insects, pebbles and other nonsense began to actively fly into the car. Some bugs at least leave unpleasant blots, and pebbles can damage the windshield. And the hood itself also suffers from debris and insects. Scratches form and stains are difficult to wash off.

It is precisely to protect against such consequences that improvements in aerodynamics have proposed the use of deflectors. Their shape has an upward tilt at the back. This allows you to redirect the air flow slightly higher than the car. Thus, all debris and insects fly over the car and do not crash into the windshield and other body elements.

Advantages and disadvantages

The installation of the deflector, as well as the fastening of the lock and hinge for the hood, aerodynamic body kits or other tuning elements, has two sides.

Today we are talking about deflectors, so we will consider its strengths and weaknesses. You already understand why such an element is needed. Now it is time to know the pros and cons you get while installing a fly swatter.

Let's start with the advantages. I would include among them:

• attractive appearance;
• affordable price with good visual effect;
• protection from small debris, pebbles and insects;
• a wide range of;
• an easy way to improve the appearance of your car.

Yes, if a large stone or other similar object flies into you, you will need to have your windshield repaired or completely replaced.

By placing a white deflector on a black car, or choosing a dark fly swatter for a light car, playing with contrast pays off. Chrome also looks very advantageous. You can look at different photos and roughly imagine what a Chevrolet Cruze, Renault Duster, Hyundai Solaris or Honda CR-V, for example, will look like.

But let's not forget about the shortcomings. They are also present here. The following disadvantages are highlighted: