Although today most cars come with an air conditioning system to maintain a proper temperature inside your vehicle, sometimes you just need to breathe in some fresh air. And this is where the problem begins. In order to create air balance that maximizes crosswind and minimizes the unpleasant ear-popping buffeting inside the cabin, you start guessing just how much you should open each window. But no matter how hard you try, sometimes, this can easily put an end to your good hair day. And if there is rain, opening the windows for fresh air may fill your car with water and make the rest of your drive rather uncomfortable. The solution to this problem? A vent visor!
Also called ‘car weathershield’, a vent visor is an aftermarket car part designed to enhance air circulation. It allows you to get a little fresh air in your car no matter whether it’s raining outside or you’re driving really fast on the highway. Nowadays, you can come across two styles of car weather shields to choose from – tape-on and in-channel models. But how do you know which style is better? Here’s a bit of help on the matter.
Tape-On Window Vent Visors
This style of car weathershield is designed to lay over the frame of the vehicle’s windows. It is fixed with strips of pre-applied, automotive-grade tape and it is custom-designed to fit right in place, without any need for cutting or drilling. The easy installation is one of the biggest benefits of this vent visor. The tape liner makes for relatively quick and pain-free installation – just clean the window frame, peel off the tape backing, and stick the vent visor on. As there isn’t any contact with the glass or window mechanics, there is no risk of scratching the glass or interfering with window operation. Because the vent visor is placed outside the window, it also provides additional shelter around the whole window, something that in-channel vent visors do not.
One disadvantage of this style is that it is difficult to remove. The removal of the old tape can become a lengthy process, compared to in-channels, which pop up pretty quickly. And as tape-on visors stay completely outside the window, they also protrude a bit more than in-channels. So if you are looking for a low-profile style, a set of in-channels might be a better choice.
In-Channel Vent Visors
With an in-channel vent visor, there is no adhesive, no drilling, and generally, no tools involved – it is simply mounted on your vehicle’s window channels. This mounting system gives the visor a more low-profile look as its mounting flanges are hidden from sight. And as there is no adhesive, if you decide it’s time to change up your style again, all you have to do is simply pop it right out of the channels with a little bit of force.
Because in-channel vent visors are made for a super snug fit, this means you may have to use some extra force to get them in the channel properly. Sometimes a little bending and flexing are required to install them and some people have broken their visor while trying to force it too hard. So, be careful when installing yours. Due to their location, there is the possibility of light scratching the glass. However, with proper installation and cleaning, this shouldn’t be a concern.