How would you make the subject of wind deflectors interesting? By beginning with an analogy about eighties hairstyles and the subsequent need for wind deflectors, perhaps. Or maybe I ought to go into detail about how the aerodynamic principles at work whisk water and snow away from windows with wind deflectors fitted.
We need to start with something interesting to grab attention because like windscreen wipers (an article in which I had to resort to Lord Byron for help), wind deflectors are not very sexy. No one has ever been made to quiver in the presence of a new design of wind deflector, at least I hope not.
After much consideration, I have decided to do away with some analogical introduction and ease us into the subject of wind deflectors with a calming photo of some cows that I took when road testing the new Suzuki Jimny back in New Zealand.
Now we may proceed.
How to find the right wind deflectors
Predictably, wind deflectors are model-specific and therefore you need to hunt down the ones that will fit your car only.
Amazon Garage is a good way of doing this. We have a ‘how to’ guide for Amazon Garage, but essentially you just need to either enter your car’s details or registration number and the appropriate wind deflectors will be filtered for you.
Below are a couple of examples from popular models.
For Peugeot 308 (2013-2021).
For Ford Fiesta 5-Door (2008-2016).
You can achieve the same on Ebay too. Similarly, put in car details or registration number and like Amazon, the correct wind deflectors will emerge.
www.ebay.co.uk
For Volkswagen Golf Mk8 5-door hatchback 2020-onwards.
www.ebay.co.uk
For Volvo XC90 2015-onwards.
If you are struggling with this, you can resort to a simple Google search. Or get in touch with your dealer. Wind deflectors are a common optional accessory and it is likely you can acquire factory wind deflectors, as long as you’re prepared to pay a little extra for them.
How to install wind deflectors
Wind deflectors usually require no tools. They simply clip into place. Reputable brands provide clear instructions or YouTube videos – Team Heko have some excellent musical accompaniment in its YouTube videos.
Taking care of wind deflectors
Most wind deflectors are plastic and therefore benefit from UV protection to keep them from degradation. A good product to use is the 303 Automotive Protectant. It can be used on exterior plastics and rubbers – 303 produces some excellent UV protective sprays for other uses too, such as spa pool covers. It knows what it’s doing.