Rain guards, window rain guards, or wind deflectors are accessories that you can easily install on any vehicle. Rain guards prevent rain from entering your vehicle’s cabin when the windows are cracked open. Are rain guards effective? How do you install a set of rain guards? We’ll discuss this in this article.
What Do Rain Guards or Wind Deflectors Do?
Prevent Rain from Entering the Cabin
Rain guards are meant to prevent wind and rain from entering the cabin when the window is opened. Are they effective? Based on online reviews, they’re usually effective. However, this can vary depending on the vehicle and the rain guards used and the vehicle model.
Rain guards are positioned right above your vehicle’s windows. As long as rain falls vertically, rain won’t enter the cabin since the rain guard provides a small roof. The rain guards can also come in handy when you need ventilation during rainy weather. This can happen if you and your passengers are soaked from the rain and you need to crack open the windows to let off some humidity.
Reduce Wind Noise
Rain guards can also deflect wind away from the front windows, minimizing wind noise when the front windows are opened. If you like to crack your vehicle’s windows open to enjoy the fresh air, rain guards can make the cabin feel calmer and serene.
Hide an Open Window
Rain guards can also be handy during the summer when you need to crack open windows to keep the vehicle’s interior cool. The rain guards can hide the opening, making the windows appear closed.
Improve Your Vehicle’s Look
Many aftermarket wind deflectors come in a gloss-black color. When installed, these visors can add lines and curves that can complement your vehicle’s shape.
What Are the Two Types of Rain Guards?
In-Channel Rain Guards
Wondering how to install in-channel rain guards? They’re installed in the channel where your vehicle’s windows sit at their highest position. Compared to stick-on wind deflectors, the base of in-channel rain guards is hidden, giving your vehicle a sleeker and cleaner look.
In-channel wind deflectors might be more stylish, but some owners encounter issues, such as windows refusing to close. Sometimes, the rain guards can even shatter because of the force from the window motor. The deflectors can also rattle during travel when traveling at high speeds. They can also come loose and slip down when the windows are opened.
Stick-On Rain Guards
Need to learn how to install stick-on rain guards? They’re installed using adhesive and placed on top of the window glass or the roof above the door. These wind deflectors won’t look as clean, but they can be easier to live with since they’ll be less likely to interfere with the window’s functionality.
Tips on How To Install In-Channel Wind Deflectors
Clean the Window Channels
In-channel wind deflectors rely on adhesives to remain seated on top of the windows. To clean the channel properly, you’ll need to push a wet rug into the channel to wipe off all the dust and debris.
Leave the Window Up for 24 Hours
Once you’ve installed the wind deflectors using the adhesive, you’ll need to put pressure on the wind deflectors using the power windows. Keep the windows closed for at least 24 hours so that the adhesive will cure. Many in-channel wind deflectors tend to fall out of place because people forget to leave the windows up for the recommended amount of time.
Tips on How To Install Stick-on Wind Deflectors
Clean the Area Properly
The adhesive tape requires a clean area so that the adhesive can properly stick. Use mild soap and water, then use an alcohol pad to further remove wax and other contaminants.
Test the Fit
Test the fit. This means try placing the deflector on the location and marking it with a non-permanent marker. This ensures you’ll put the deflectors in the correct location on the first try.
Don’t Wash the Vehicle After Installation
The adhesive will require some time to cure. During this time, it would be best not to wash the vehicle so that the adhesive dries properly. You should check the manufacturer’s instructions for information regarding curing time, but this should only last a few hours.
Keep Reading: Related Posts
Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.
