sunroof wind deflector

[bmwstephen]

So I noticed my car has the retaining clips for the factory pop up sunroof wind deflector but I guess the PO removed the deflector at one point.

In any event, I might be able to get a replacement some day but was wondering if it's worth it?

Obviously these things are supposed to reduce noise but is it truly noticable? does it serve any other purpose? I just find it odd that something that sticks up 2 inches at a 70 degree angle would be useful.

[Simon S]

In my experience on previous car (’88 Integra) – they are nice in that they reduce wind noise a great deal. I would take it off during winters.

The down side is that particulates get trapped under the rubber seal and slowly grind your paint away.
Here’s a picture someone posted years ago when they took theirs off:



and fwiw, while the one on my Integra looked great - they don’t look good on e30s at all.

I remember thinking that like if I did a whole f’ing lot of highway driving – I’d want one again – but then I’d put some tape under the deflector gasket in effort to protect the paint. I confess to miss having one when I take long Sunday drives in the summer. I LOVE to have the roof open most of the time - but it was like I would have to take breaks from the noise by shutting the roof every now and again..

[bmwstephen]

Thanks simon but I was referring to the internal pop up one that hides underneath your sunroof panel and pops up when retracted. Does your 318is not have one? I thought all IS do

Sent from the heavens

[glnr13]

the one that simon is talking about really does work but it's hideous and destroys the "lines" of the car. my MINI had an internal one like the one you're describing stephen but it didn't work that well.

[bmwstephen]

So in other words I shouldn't waste my time acquiring one?

Sent from the heavens

[Simon S]

ah – now understood.. thought you were referring to one/type I posted a pic of.

as far as the mini pop-up panel you specify – if my car was missing one – I would be all over replacing it. True that it doesn't do much - but more that I dislike "missing parts" in general..