Do you consider your car a reflection of your personality? If not, customizing it with modifications can be a great way to make your car stand out.
After all, there’s a reason nearly 8 million people modify their cars every year.
One popular modification is adding a car spoiler to your vehicle. But, what do car spoilers do and how do you go about choosing the right option to enhance your vehicle?
Continue reading this guide for an overview of cool car spoilers and how to choose the best one for your car.
What Is the Purpose of a Car Spoiler?
If you thought a car spoiler is all about enhancing the look of a car, think again. They actually play an important part in the aerodynamics and efficiency of a car’s performance.
If you’ve ever driven on even a mildly windy day, you might notice the car starts to sway a bit while you drive. That’s because of the airflow going over your car.
When you get your car up to cruising speeds, your engine has to work hard to combat that wind resistance. Therefore, if you can reduce the impact of wind resistance, you can increase your engine’s efficiency, making it so your car doesn’t have to work so hard.
This is where a spoiler comes into play. As its name suggests, a car spoiler “spoils” the airflow (also known as drag) over your vehicle, improving the aerodynamics. As a result, your car doesn’t have to work as hard to counteract the drag.
Types of Spoilers
The most common type of car spoiler is usually seen on the back of the vehicle, on the edge of the trunk. But, there are several different types of spoiler options that have specific purposes.
Let’s take a closer look at all of them.
Pedestal Spoiler
A pedestal spoiler is most likely what you picture when you imagine a “typical spoiler.” It attaches to the top of a car’s trunk and can help improve the stability of a car when traveling at high speeds.
People also tend to like this option because it can add an element of style to a vehicle.
Front Spoiler
Front spoilers—which are also known as air dams or chin spoilers—help reduce airflow underneath a car. Originally designed for racing cars, a front spoiler attaches beneath the front bumper and can help reduce fuel consumption.
It can also help give your car a unique look, especially if a sporty look appeals to you.
Lighted Spoiler
If you’re looking for a way to enhance the look of your car and increase its safety, a lighted spoiler may be just what you need. Like a pedestal spoiler, this option is mounted to the top of the trunk, but it includes a brake light.
This gives your car more visibility during the day and at night and adds a nice stylish accent to your vehicle.
Roof Spoiler
A roof spoiler has the same function as a pedestal one, in that it helps improve vehicle handling. However, instead of attaching to the trunk, it’s mounted right above the glass of the back windshield.
Roof spoilers tend to have a subtler look, but they can still give your car an aggressive edge. They’re often seen on hatchbacks, SUVs, and sports cars.
Lip Spoiler
If you like the idea of a pedestal spoiler, but you want a more subtle option, look no further than a rear lip spoiler. This option is typically a smaller spoiler, that doesn’t sit up very high off the trunk.
While some lip spoilers can still help with aerodynamics, they serve more of an aesthetic purpose than other spoiler options.
Whale Tail Spoiler
On the complete opposite spectrum of a lip spoiler, you have the whale tail spoiler. These sit up much higher than a traditional pedestal spoiler and help to reduce lift on the back of the car, for optimal performance at max speeds.
These spoilers are found primarily on high-end sports cars, like Porches.
Truck Spoiler
If you love your pickup truck, you don’t have to feel left out when it comes to choosing a spoiler. Truck spoilers can be added to the rear of your truck, to help break up air streams while you drive.
They can also give your truck a unique look, as they come in a variety of styles, shapes, and dimensions.
Types of Spoiler Materials
Now that you know more about the different types of spoilers available for your car, you’ll need to decide what material your spoiler should be made from. Choosing the right material can make all the difference in your car’s performance.
ABS Plastic
The most common type of material used to make spoilers is ABS plastic. It’s an inexpensive option, however, it’s also not as durable, so it may need to be replaced more frequently than spoilers made from other materials.
Carbon Fiber
Spoilers made from forged carbon fiber tend to be more expensive than other options. However, it’s with good reason, as they are more lightweight and can be one of the best choices for enhancing aerodynamic performance.
Steel
Spoilers made from steel are heavy, but as a result, they are also more durable. The look of them may also appeal to you. And, while it’s a more expensive option than a plastic spoiler, it’s cheaper than a carbon fiber alternative.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass spoilers are a great mid-range option. They are cost-effective, but they are also more durable than ABS plastic ones. And, they are easy to repair, so if your fiberglass spoiler becomes damaged, you likely won’t need a full replacement.
Make Your Car Uniquely Yours
Adding a car spoiler to your vehicle is a great way to make it stand out as your own. And, now you know all the most important factors to consider before choosing a spoiler for your car.
Check out our other articles for more helpful information about cars and life in general.
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