Deflectors, Shades & Visors

Want to be able to drive with the side window slightly open in the rain, or does your bonnet need protection from stone chips and insects? In this category we bring together wind deflectors, window visors, bug deflectors and sunshades. These are accessories for you if you want to make your car more comfortable to use and protect both the paintwork and the cabin.

What the different deflectors and shades do

Wind deflectors and window visors sit above the side windows and let you air out the car with the window slightly lowered, even in light rain. They can typically also reduce draught and wind noise, but the effect depends on the car and the product. Bug deflectors are fitted at the front of the bonnet and are designed to direct air, insects and small stones away from the paintwork and windscreen. Sunshades for the windscreen, e.g. UVS100 Premier Sunscreen, keep sunlight out while the car is parked and can limit the heat in the cabin.

How to choose the right type

• Mounting: Exterior-mount visors are attached to the outside of the door frame with tape, while in-channel visors are pressed into the window channel. Both versions are available, for example, in the Ventvisor series from AVS.
• Finish: Smoked or chrome. Choose based on your car's other details and how much light you want to let in.
• Number of pieces: Many sets consist of four pieces for the front and rear windows, and the fit depends on the body style, e.g. Crew Cab.
• Fitment: The visors are made for specific models and model years, e.g. Honda Accord 13-17 or RAM 1500 2019. Check the part number against your car.

For the bonnet there is, for example, Aeroskin Lightshield from Husky Liners. Other brands in the category include Covercraft, Putco and Westin.

Installation, care and roadworthiness inspection

If you fit in-channel visors, the window may move a little stiffly at first. Windows with anti-pinch protection can react to the extra resistance, so follow the manufacturer's instructions. With tape mounting, the surface must be clean and dry, and the temperature must not be too low. Wash the visors with mild soapy water and a soft cloth, and avoid strong solvents, which can damage the surface. Whether a visor is road legal and passes inspection depends on the product and the car. So check this for the specific part number.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between exterior mounting and in-channel mounting?

Exterior-mount visors sit on the door frame with double-sided tape and require no modification to the window channel. In-channel visors are pressed into the channel and give a more integrated look, but the window may move a little stiffly at first.

Can I take my car through a car wash with wind deflectors fitted?

It depends on the product and the installation. Tape-mounted visors should typically be given time to cure before being exposed to brushes and high-pressure washing. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific set.

Does a bug deflector protect the bonnet against stone chips?

It can direct part of the airflow, insects and small stones up over the windscreen and itself covers the leading edge of the bonnet. However, it does not provide full protection, and the effect depends on the product, the car and the speed.

Can wind deflectors and bug deflectors cause problems at inspection?

It depends on the product and the car. Typically, inspectors look at whether the deflector is securely attached, has sharp edges or obstructs visibility. Check any approval for the specific part number before you fit the deflector.