Rain Guards: Three Years Later
Rain guards were the first addition I made to my 4Runner, and three years later, they remain a favorite. They’re versatile, whether you need fresh air while it’s raining, want to reduce wind noise, or keep your parked car cooler in the sun.
Originally, I loved them on my old 3rd Gen 4Runner, and they’re just as handy now. Whether for practical use or just adding some functionality to your vehicle, rain guards are a solid upgrade.
Where To Buy? – Several Options From AVS
- Hood Deflectors
- Bugflector II: Check Price
- Aeroskin: Check Price
- Rain Guards
- Low Profile Ventvisor: Check Price
- In-Channel Ventvisor: Check Price
- Tape On Ventvisor: Check Price
Table Of Contents
The rain guards and window deflectors are kind of a staple for every 4Runner, in my opinion. They definitely add to the overall look.
Benefits
There are many benefits to these, but I will jot my favorites below.
- Keeping rain out while window is cracked
- Great for Smokers/ Vapers
- Letting cool air in while heater is on
- Reducing wind noise while window is slightly cracked (this is huge)
- Instantly removing fogged up windshield when cracked
- Circulate fresh air
- Solid low profile design
- Can block sun in certain situations
- Made of tinted high-grade acrylic (UV and scratch resistant)
- Installs in minutes using pre-applied 3M automotive-grade tape
- Car wash safe and made in the USA
- Lifetime warranty
Low Profile Rain Guards and Window Deflectors
The AVS Low Profile Ventvisor, also known as a rain guard, is a simple yet effective mod. Its sleek design fits perfectly with the low-profile aesthetic of many 4Runners. Made in the USA and backed by a lifetime warranty, these vent visors are built to last.
I’ve had mine on the 5th Gen Trail 4Runner for over three years with zero issues. They remain securely in place and haven’t shifted at all. Installation is effortless—just peel off the 3M backing and stick them on. They’re a reliable, durable addition that continues to receive top-notch reviews from the community.
There are many rain guard brands available, but AVS (Auto Ventshade) stands out as the most popular choice. With the highest number of reviews and consistently high ratings, AVS has become the go-to option for most 4Runner owners. Other brands like Auto Dynasty, Cuztom Tuning, DNA Motoring, AUTEX, and TuningPros offer alternatives, but AVS remains the top pick for its reliability and widespread use in the community.
Are they for you?
Rain guards are perfect for keeping rain or snow out while still allowing fresh air into the cabin. Fresh air not only prevents stuffiness but also helps keep windows clear. They’re especially useful for those who like fresh air during bad weather, smokers or vapers, or anyone looking to reduce wind noise while driving. Whether on the road or trail, they offer practical benefits for many situations, but ultimately, the choice is yours!
Any original Toyota one from Japan?
Did you get the in channel ones or the outside mounted?
Outside mounted – 3m tape sticks on the outside window trim.
I just installed the Auto Ventshade 25053 Bugflector on my ’17 SR5. Easy install and looks great. Thanks for another great recommendation.
which window visor fits flush together where it the colum meets
I bought a set of the AVS original. They seemed short when dry fitting them to the front window. Did you line up the front first then had to bring the top down so the back can properly stick? Looks a little odd having the vent so far down on the 4Runners black window trim. Any close up pictures of your set up?
Hi Brenan, in the pictures do you have the AVS bugflector 23071 or the AVS bugflector 25053 on yours? Thanks!
I have the Auto Ventshade 25053 Bugflector.
Thank you! You just solved a lot of headache and wasted time for me. Love your posts btw. Most helpful on the internet. I bought a 2014 4Runner a couple of months ago so this is all new to me. You’re a huge help.
Brenan, can you confirm the model of the window deflectors that are in the pictures? I just bought the low profile from AVS and they are too low profile for my liking.
Just for the sake of clarity to potential buyers, the model shown on your truck above is:
“Auto Ventshade 94242 Original Ventvisor Side Window Deflector Dark Smoke, 4-Piece Set for 2010-2018 Toyota 4Runner.”
However, when you mention below “The AVS low profile Ventvisor is the go-to in our community…” This is misleading as the ones you show on your truck are not actually the “Low Profile” model.
That is: “Auto Ventshade 894027 Low Profile Dark Smoke Ventvisor Side Window Deflector, 4-Piece Set for 2010-2018 Toyota 4Runner.”
They serve the same purpose but actually look quite a bit different to each other when installed.
It’s a small difference, but it IS noticeable.
Cheers!
Which one is better?
Bryce, good looking man. Thanks, that was my bad.
William,
Yeah, the 5th Gen 4Runner rain guards are awesome. I love them. They serve a ton of purposes that you don’t really notice sometimes. They are definitely a must-buy for the 4Runner in my opinion.
Hey Brenan,
Thank you for the great article. I just bought a new 5th Gen TRD Off Road Premium and have been slowly modifying the exterior. I really like the look of the 4R in the photos shown in this article. I am specifically interested in the wheel / tire specs and the type of lift / leveling kit or both that is installed. Do you mind sharing the specs for both if applicable? I am new to all of this and just trying to gather as much information as possible before I pull the trigger.
Thanks in advance for any information you are able to provide. Hopefully the 4R in the pics is yours!
— Judd
At that time, just the Icon Stage 2 at 3″ in the front and the Toyo 34″ tires (lots of rubbing).
I got the Weathertech deflectors and rain guards installed on my 5th gen. Took like 10 minutes to get it on, super easy mod. My feelings for it is (aside from looks) that it is a relatively cheap mod you can get with usable functions. For highway driving, rain, or just ventilation the rain guards are great. With the rain guards on, I can also leave my windows with a slight crack during hot weathers for heat venting.
As for the front deflector, to me that is just a nice cosmetic touch especially if you have a white or silver 4runner. With all the chips and dings from rocks, a little bug deflector doesn’t really matter at that point, haha.