Let’s be realistic, sometimes needing to open the windows doesn’t always line up with the driving conditions. On rainy days, they can fog up. Or, you and your passengers could be coming from a questionable food truck, and opening the windows could be a matter of life or death. On sunny days, perhaps you want to let some of that sweet summer air through but don’t want that streak of direct sunlight to make you look like a zebra.
Whatever your reason is, these deflectors allow you to partially open the windows for fresh airflow regardless of the weather conditions. The AVS Low Profile Ventvisors especially, accomplish this in a very discreet way.
Find It Online:
- AVS Low Profile Ventvisor (pictured): Check Price
- AVS In-Channel Ventvisor: Check Price
- AVS Tape On Ventvisor (original): Check Price
Table Of Contents
Low Profile Vs. In-Channel Vs. Tape On
Low Profile
The Low Profile version installs via automotive-grade 3M tape on the exterior of the window frame. Depending on your vehicle, it will install on the exterior of the frame or inside the window channel. For the 5th Gen 4Runner, they install on the exterior of the window frame. They have a larger, flatter surface area that maintains an OEM+ look.
In-Channel
The In-Channel version installs with the same 3M tape but on the inside of the window channel. They’re not as quite low profile and have a slightly rounded shape. These probably have the most secure installation of the three variants. However, they could cause issues with your windows rolling all the way up, so you’ll want to test this before driving through a monsoon. Usually it just takes careful closing.
Tape-On (original)
The Tape-On (original) installs again, with the same 3M tape but on your door frame rather than the window frame. The reason we labeled it as the original is because it has the original design elements – which are a little more bulky. I would argue this looks the most like what your parents used on the vehicles when you were a kid. They’re not my first choice, but to each their own.
Durability
All AVS Window Deflectors are made from UV and impact-resistant acrylic and come with a lifetime warranty against warping, cracking, or other workmanship defects.
On a final note, some might argue that in-channel versions may create excess stress on the window or it’s motor. While this isn’t a common issue – something that you may read about if you’re doing your research. For that reason, you could say that the best choice (if you’re concerned) would be the two options that attach with tape.
1. Easy & Secure Installation
Assuming they’re installed correctly (on a clean surface and warm enough so that the adhesive is malleable), the 3M automotive adhesive should keep these in place for years to come. AVS claims that their window deflectors are car wash safe. I would imagine that the low-profile version, with its reduced wind resistance, stays put really well. The in-channel version may be the only “better” one.
Full disclosure, I do have my reservations about these only being held on by 3M tape. However, they don’t call this stuff “automotive-grade” for nothing, and it wouldn’t be so widely used if it didn’t hold up (for example, all of the TRD-Pro replica grilles out there). I haven’t really heard many negative stories. Of course, improper install could contribute to a poor seal. Time will tell, though, and I’ll be sure to report back if ever lose a deflector on the road.
2. Air Flow Without Exposure To Elements
Window deflectors serve one main purpose; to allow for fresh airflow without letting the elements into your cabin. If your interior has ever fogged up on a rainy day, partially opening the window helps immensely with this issue. Without deflectors, however, that’s not usually an option without soaking your door panels.
Conversely, trying to let in the air on hot, sunny days presents its own challenges. No matter how dark or effective your window tint is, that’s irrelevant once you roll your window down. Deflectors can help here as well by blocking the sun for partially opened windows. That’s great not only for fresh air but for blocking that direct sunlight from your eyes.
3. Secure Air Flow During Hot Months
On hot days, I like to leave the windows slightly rolled down when parked outside. This usually reduces heat from building up as much and general mugginess. The AVS Low Profile deflectors allow me to do this while minimizing prying eyes and that sliver of direct sunlight that will inevitably hit the steering wheel.
The Low Profile version comes down about 1.5″ from the top of the window frame, which should allow for adequate ventilation without making it obvious.
4. Decreased Wind Noise
I think quite a few of us enjoy opening the window(s) while we drive. But the faster you go, even if you only crack your windows, the noise can be unbearable for some.
While I might not be that sensitive to it, a good set of deflectors will help to reduce the noise from wind rushing past the window via better aerodynamics. It’s certainly a nice effect and some argue it’s one of the most important.
Final Thoughts
I was never a fan of the bulging window deflectors of the ’90s. While I’m sure that aesthetic was all the rage back then, I don’t believe the same holds true today. The AVS Low Profile Ventvisors (and even the non-low profile variants) are much sleeker and help you maintain a cleaner and more pleasing overall aesthetic.
While the low-profile version doesn’t provide as good protection from the elements as its original counterpart, it’s a welcome trade-off for the OEM+ look. For most people, if I didn’t point out that they’re there, they probably wouldn’t notice them. For that reason, I think I made the right choice.
Despite best attempts to mount in-channel deflectors, seems that the small surface area with adhesive simply cannot withstand the forces exerted by remaining part of the deflector. After about a year in a dusty environment it appears that the adhesive eventually gets infiltrated and separates from the window channel molding. Ultimately, only the ends of the deflector kept the entire piece in place. With the window closed, the deflector was secure, but once the window was lowered, the deflector wobbled.
Have now installed a low-profile external wind deflector and the automotive adhesive tape used by the manufacturer is at least twice the contact surface. Time will tell whether dust/sand compromises the adhesive tape. The front and back external wind deflectors both have a small coverage gap when the window is slightly lowered, whereas the previous in-channel deflector fully covered the window opening.
Certainly helpful to have the deflectors, but each common brand may require some work to perfect the fit.
That’s excellent feedback, thanks for sharing your experience!