Bug deflectors are accessories for trucks and SUVs that prevent bugs and debris from hitting the windshield. They are aerodynamically designed and protect the hood from road debris. Most cars are not designed for bug deflectors due to their aerodynamic design. Bug deflectors come in various shades and heights and can be easily installed without drilling. They are available at automotive accessory stores and prices start at less than $40 USD.
A bug deflector, or bug shield, is an automotive accessory used on trucks and sport utility vehicles (SUVs) to prevent bugs and debris from hitting the windshield. With a wing design, it slopes towards the leading edge of the hood and is aerodynamically designed with a rising ridge that creates a skid effect, carrying insects and dust over the top of the vehicle. In addition to protecting the windshield, a bug deflector also protects the hood from being bitten by flying stones, tar and other road debris.
You may be wondering why error deflectors aren’t made for all vehicles. The answer is that most cars are aerodynamically designed with raked windshields and convex hoods that turn downward to minimize wind resistance and increase fuel economy. These design features allow the wind to flow up and over the car.
The design of trucks and SUVs is not primarily geared towards being stylish, but towards utility. The body design lends itself to priorities like visibility and cabin room. Windshields tend to be closer to the high-profile, upright hoods, less convex. The sharper angle between the windshield and hood, combined with the higher profile of the SUV and truck, makes them ideal for catching windshield bugs, flying rocks, and dirt. The bug deflector helps mitigate this by creating a wind current that directs debris onto the vehicle.
Most bug guards are made of durable acrylic and come in various shades from opaque black to semi-transparent grey, light smoke or pink. If you have a chrome grill or other chrome trim on your kit, you may prefer a stainless steel chrome bug guard to accent your hood. The designs available for your model truck or SUV depend on the manufacturer of the error guard. If you can’t find what you’re looking for from one manufacturer, check out other brands for more options.
The height of the crest on the error shield determines the degree of wind deflection, so choosing a model with a crest that is too shallow might not produce satisfactory results. A ridge that is too high, on the other hand, can make the bug deflector stand out visually on the hood. Generic type guards made to fit a variety of models may not be ideal for a particular truck or SUV, even if it does physically fit the vehicle. The crest may be too high or low to be ideal. Buying models made specifically for your vehicle can take the guesswork out of finding a good fit while getting the correct ridge height.
Bug deflectors come with hardware and installation instructions, and most do not require drilling or special tools. Installing a bug deflector can take as little as 15 minutes using the provided clips or screws that attach to the bottom of the hood. The guards or pads should prevent the shield from rubbing directly against the hood paint.
Bug deflectors are available everywhere automotive accessories are sold. Prices start at less than $40 US Dollars (USD) for a smaller acrylic shield, while large chrome or stainless steel models made for full-size trucks can cost $100 USD or more. If you’re not comfortable installing a bug deflector yourself, a local auto service center will probably do it for a small fee.
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