An air deflector is a device that alters the flow of air over a vehicle to prevent bugs from hitting the windshield. However, it can hinder wiper function in rainy situations. Proper placement can solve the problem, and when mounted on the rear, it should be positioned squarely in the center to remove dirt from the rear window.
An air deflector is a device mounted on a vehicle to alter the flow of air. Usually attached to the hood, the air deflector changes the airflow that travels over the nose of the vehicle so that it flows over the windshield and does not come into contact with the glass. This prevents bugs from hitting the windshield and creating a hard-to-remove mess. Some air deflector installations mount the deflector above the rear window of the vehicle. Often used on minivans, pickup trucks, and SUVs, the spoiler alters airflow over the rear of the vehicle and keeps dirt and debris off the rear glass.
Occasionally known as a bug deflector due to the results of its actions, an air deflector does not always produce positive results. In rainy situations, the deflector often alters the flow of wind over the front of the vehicle so effectively that it prevents the wipers from working as intended. As the disturbed airflow travels up and over the nose of the vehicle, it often sucks the wipers up and off the windshield. This creates a hazardous vision situation that can hinder the operator’s ability to clearly see the road ahead of the vehicle.
A solution to this problem is often seen in large tractor trailer rigs. When possible, positioning the air deflector away from the front edge of the vehicle’s hood and slightly closer to the windshield often fixes the problem. It may take several tries to figure out the proper location where the air deflector will prevent wiper interruption. When trying to find the correct mounting position for the air deflector, using double-sided tape to temporarily mount the deflector brackets will avoid drilling multiple mounting holes in the hood of the vehicle.
When mounting an air deflector to the rear of a vehicle, it is important to position the deflector squarely in the center. Careful measurement of each side of the deflector will allow it to sit evenly on the rear window of the vehicle. By altering the airflow over the rear of the vehicle, the turbulent airbag behind the vehicle is moved further away from the rear window glass. This removes most of the dirt that is kicked up by the vehicle as it travels down the road and prevents it from sticking to the rear window.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
