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How to Install a Vent Visor. Posted on June 15, 2016 March 26, 2015 by Justin Brunner. Vent visors can allow you to have your windows partially open without letting rain and snow into your vehicle. Let us help you find and install the right ones for your vehicle.
It turns out you can let some fresh air into your vehicle, even if it's raining cats and dogs outside. With a set of vent visors (aka window deflectors), you'll be able to crack the windows no matter the weather or how fast you're driving. The best part is, installing some vent visors is a quick and relatively easy process.
Finding The Best Vent Visors
There are plenty of window deflector manufacturers out there, and they're all quite good at what they do. So how do you choose the best window deflectors for your vehicle? First and foremost, check out the different finishes and visual styles and find one that appeals to you, whether you want the bling of EGR Chrome Vent Visors or the more subtle and aerodynamic look of AVS Seamless Window Deflectors. Second, check out the mounting styles and decide if you want in-channel or tape-on ventvisors (more on that in a bit). At AutoAccessoriesGarage.com we make it really easy to find custom ventvisors for your particular vehicle - just give us your year, make, and model with our vehicle selector widget and we'll only show you the deflectors that fit it perfectly.
Installing Your Window Deflectors
It only takes a few minutes to install your new vent visors. The way you install them depends on whether you've purchased in-channel or tape-on window deflectors.
In-Channel Deflector Installation
In-Channel Vent Visors generally don't require any adhesive or extra hardware to install. They insert up and into the window channel, and they're held in place by the friction in the channel. This video shows the process in detail, with WeatherTech Vent Visors:
Installing Tape-On Window Deflectors
As implied by their name, tape-on vent visors are simply taped to the exterior of your vehicle. Most models from brands like AVS Vent Visors and EGR Deflectors are equipped with automotive-grade 3M double sided tape, which will stand up to years of driving.
The key to installing tape-on window deflectors is thoroughly cleaning the surface of your window frames. Wax, dirt, and dust all compromise the adhesive qualities of the tape, so make sure every mounting surface is completely free of debris. Many deflector kits come with alcohol wipes for the window frames, but if not a paper towel and some rubbing alcohol will work just fine.
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Home >Deflectors >How To Install Window Deflectors
Window Deflectors do a wonderful job of keeping wind and weather out of your vehicle's cab while still letting in fresh air. They hang out far enough to allow you to lower your windows an inch or two without disturbing your passengers with howling, whistling wind or splashing precipitation. Never underestimate the rejuvenative power of fresh air. It feels good, sure, but it can also keep you awake and alert on a long drive.
To look at your average Window Deflector, you would think installation were a breeze. That's not exactly true. While a WeatherTech deflector isn't the most difficult thing in the world to install, and neither are those by Stampede or Putco, installing a deflector properly is also not the easiest. There are two specific processes by which Window Deflectors are installed: either via adhesive backing tape, or by bending and snapping the device into the window channel.
To look at your average Window Deflector, you would think installation were a breeze. That's not exactly true. While a WeatherTech deflector isn't the most difficult thing in the world to install, and neither are those by Stampede or Putco, installing a deflector properly is also not the easiest. There are two specific processes by which Window Deflectors are installed: either via adhesive backing tape, or by bending and snapping the device into the window channel.
Adhesive Window Deflector Installation
- Remove your deflectors from the box. Check that all deflectors and other necessary materials are present.
Helpful Tip:To avoid smudging your window deflectors before attaching them, it's a good idea to use latex or cloth gloves when installing them, remembering only to handle them by the outside edges, never the clear plastic itself.
- Use Automotive Surface Cleaner (which should be included...if it is not, any multipurpose surface cleaner will do) to wipe down the area to which tape will be applied. Dirt or dust left disregarded can weaken adhesive and shorten your deflectors' life span.
- When surface dries (which shouldn't take long), take out deflectors, turn over, and remove the non-adhesive strip to expose adhesive. Be very careful not to touch the adhesive before applying it.
- Carefully following the instructions, place the deflectors atop your windows exactly as the instructions say. These will be cut specifically to your vehicle, so they should follow your window's contours perfectly.
- Depress the corners first and work your way up the length of each deflector, depressing as you go, to glue them into place above your window.
- Stand back and marvel at the job you've done so well.
In-Channel Window Deflector Installation
- Carefully remove your deflectors from the box in which they were shipped and lay them out.
- Roll down every window into which you intend to place a deflector.
- One by one, remove each individual reflector from its protective plastic bag.
- You will notice a lip on one side of your deflector. This is intended to fit inside your window channel. Delicately bend your deflector so that you can fit it inside your open window. Ease the deflector in-line with the upper portion of the window channel.
- Being careful not to apply too much force but strong enough to make it fit, wedge the upper lip of your deflector into the window channel. When the entire length of the deflector is within the channel, let go. These deflectors are designed to expand into the channel when you do so, locking into place by virtue of attempting to regain their prior shape.
- Stand back and marvel at the job you've done so well.
Conclusion
Window Deflectors provide drivers with the opportunity to breathe some fresh air even on the worst days without letting in a howling breeze or rain and snow. Installing these accessories is relatively simple, but don't take the process for granted. If you have any further questions regarding Window Deflector installation, please feel free to contact our dedicated and helpful Customer Service staff by calling 800-663-1570. Also, if you are in the market for new window deflectors, be sure to review our Top 10 Best Window Deflectors article.