Side window deflectors, or windbreakers, are an integral part of a modern car, protecting the interior from rain, snow and incoming airflow when opening windows. However, their location in the aerodynamic drag zone leads to the fact that they are the first to take the blow of road dust, insects and reagents. Over time, a dense coating forms on the surface, which not only spoils the appearance of the car, but also worsens visibility, especially in sunny weather or in headlights.
Many car owners make the mistake of rubbing contaminated items with aggressive chemicals or hard brushes, which leads to micro scratches and clouding of the plastic. Quality cleaning requires a delicate approach and an understanding of the structure of the material from which your deflectors. In this article, we will look at proven ways to remove persistent contaminants that will return accessories to factory shine and transparency without the risk of damage.
It should be understood that the usual washing of the body often leaves on the side elements of the stains and film, as standard autochemistry does not always cope with oxidized dirt on the plastic. You will need to prepare special tools and tools to make the process as efficient as possible. Proper care extends the life of these accessories, maintaining their elasticity and optical properties for many years.
Features of pollution of windmills and the choice of chemistry
The main problem when cleaning deflectors is that not just dust settles on their surface, but a mixture of oils, bitumen particles and tire wear products, which are polymerized under the influence of the sun. Conventional shampoo for the body is often powerless against such a plaque, since its formula is designed to remove fresh dirt from the paint coating, and not to split the ingrained organic compounds on the plastic. The use of inappropriate solvents can lead to chemical burns of the material, the appearance of whitish plaque or microcracks.
For safe cleaning, it is necessary to use specialized means designed specifically for polymeric materials and plastics. The best choice will be water-based cleaners or special sprays for salon care, which do not contain aggressive alcohols and acetone. It is important to avoid products with abrasive particles, as they will inevitably leave on a smooth surface. deflector visible net of scratches, which later will be impossible to remove polishing.
⚠️ Warning: Never use gasoline, kerosene or 646/647 solvents to clean your deflectors. These substances instantly destroy the structure of the plastic, making it cloudy and brittle, which will require a complete replacement of accessories.
When choosing chemistry, you should also consider the color and type of plastic. For dark tinted windbreakers, some compositions are suitable, for light ones - others. The universal solution is neutralwhich do not react with the dyes. Before applying any product to the entire surface, it is recommended to conduct a test on an inconspicuous area to make sure that there is no negative reaction of the material.
Necessary tools for delicate washing
The success of the cleaning operation depends on the right tools for 50% of the cleaning. Even the most expensive remedy will not give a result if you use it with a coarse rag or an old sponge that has already accumulated abrasive dust. To work with delicate surfaces, such as wind-breakerWe need an arsenal of soft materials that can carefully remove dirt without leaving traces.
First of all, you will need a high-quality microfiber. It is not just a cloth, but a complex material, the fibers of which work like hooks, pulling dirt from the pores of plastic. Microfiber It should be clean, without pile and pre-washed without the use of conditioners for linen, which reduce the absorbency. You will also need a soft sponge with a finely porous structure designed for applying waxes and polishes.
- 🧽 Soft sponge - for application of detergent composition and easy emulsification of contaminants without pressure.
- 🧴 Pulverizer - for a uniform distribution of cleaning agent and water, which minimizes friction.
- 🧻 Lilac-free wipes - for final polishing and removal of moisture residues from the ends.
Additionally, a soft brush can be useful for cleaning hard-to-reach places, for example, grooves of the attachment or corners, where the bulk of the dust accumulates. Use of the brush allows you to sweep dirt from the joints without scratching the plastic with bristles. All tools should be customized and not used to wash wheels or the bottom of sills where contact with an abrasive is inevitable.
Step by step: how to wash deflectors without divorces
The cleaning process should begin only after the car has cooled and direct sunlight does not fall on it. Heating the surface leads to rapid drying of detergent, which is guaranteed to leave the divorces, which are then extremely difficult to remove. The first step is always to wet the ground with water to soften the main layer of dirt.
Apply the selected cleaning product to the sponge or spray it directly on the surface. deflector. Let the chemistry work for 1-2 minutes, but do not allow it to dry completely. Light circular movements walk through the entire area, paying special attention to the lower edge and the places adjacent to the body, where dirt accumulates most intensively. Mechanical impact It should be minimal; the main work is on the chemical composition.
☑️ Checklist of the correct wash
Once the dirt has been emulsified, wash it thoroughly with plenty of water. If you use a high-pressure wash, keep the gun at least 30-40 cm away from the plastic and use a fan stream to avoid damaging the edge or fasteners. The final step is drying: use a dry, clean microfiber, gently dipping the surface, rather than driving a cloth back and forth to avoid smearing moisture residue.
⚠️ Note: If there are stains after the first wash, do not rub them hard. Repeat the application procedure, giving it more time to react with pollution.
Removing complex contaminants: insects and bitumen
Sometimes a standard wash is not enough, especially after long trips along the highway, when insect shells or drops of road bitumen remain on the deflectors. These contaminants have high adhesion and require the use of specialized removers. To combat organics (insects), alkaline compounds are excellent, which break down protein compounds, making them soft and easy to wash off.
To remove bitumen stains and traces of rubber must be used bitumen-removers on a citrus or hydrocarbon basis. It is important to apply such products locally, avoiding getting on the paint coating of the body and rubber seals, as aggressive components can damage these materials. After applying the remover, you must wait the time specified in the instructions, usually 3-5 minutes, until the stain begins to dissolve.
The table below shows the types of pollution and recommended remedies:
| Type of pollution | Recommended remedy | Exposition time | Tool. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Road dust | Plastic shampoo | 1-2 minutes | Soft sponge |
| Insects | Insect remover | 3-5 minutes | Microfiber |
| Bitumen stains | Antisilicone / Bitumen remover | 2-4 minutes | Napkin. |
| Fat film | Degreaser (soft) | 1 minute | Vetosh |
After removing persistent stains, be sure to thoroughly rinse the treated area with water and shampoo to neutralize the remnants of aggressive chemistry. Left on the surface, the bitumen remover can cause the plastic to cloud over time or change its color. Safety of material Always take priority over the speed of removal of the stain.
Can polymer be used for plastic?
The use of polishes with abrasives is strictly prohibited, as they will remove the protective layer and make the plastic matte. Only silicone or Teflon-based protective formulations are allowed after complete purification.
Restoring transparency and protecting the surface
After deep cleaning and removal of all contaminants, the protection stage begins. Plastic deflectors are subject to ultraviolet radiation, which over time leads to fading and the appearance of microcracks. To prevent this process and maintain optical transparency, it is necessary to apply a protective composition. This can be a special spray-antistatic, which will repel dust, or a polymer sealant.
Protective coating creates an invisible film that facilitates subsequent washing: the dirt will not stick as much, and it will be enough just to rinse the deflectors with water. For application, use an applicator or a pure microfiber, distributing the composition with a thin uniform layer. Avoid getting the product on the glass, as this can cause glare and impair visibility at night.
- 🛡️ Antistatic effect Prevents dust from sticking immediately after washing.
- ☔ Hydrophobic properties Water rolls off the surface, leaving no stains when drying.
- ☀️ UV filters Protect the material from destruction under the influence of sunlight.
Regular use of protective compounds prolongs the life of deflectors, maintaining their elasticity. If the plastic began to lose its appearance, there were scuffs, the use of high-quality polyroly It can temporarily return to its presentable appearance, hiding small defects. However, remember that this is a cosmetic measure and it will not eliminate deep damage.
Typical mistakes when caring for windbreakers
Despite the simplicity of the procedure, many car owners make mistakes that negate all efforts and can lead to property damage. The most common of these is the use of scrapers, knives or hard brushes to remove ice or dried dirt. Plastic deflectors are much softer than glass or metal, and any solid object will leave deep furrows on it.
Another mistake is to ignore the instructions for the chemical. Some concentrates require dilution, and their use in its pure form causes a chemical burn of the surface, manifesting itself in the form of whitish spots that cannot be washed. Also, do not wash the deflectors "dry" or with a minimum amount of water, as this turns the process into skinning the surface with sand particles.
⚠️ Warning: Never use melamine sponges to clean deflectors! Despite their popularity in everyday life, they work as a small abrasive (sandpaper) and irrevocably spoil the glossy surface.
Also avoid washing in frosty weather if you are not sure about the frost resistance of plastic. A sharp temperature drop from warm chemistry to icy air can cause the material to deform or crack. The optimal temperature for washing and caring for plastic elements of the car is from +5 to +25 degrees Celsius.
Wipe the deflectors after each rainy ride while they are still wet to prevent lime plaque from dried rainwater.
Regular preventive cleaning takes less time and preserves the material better than rare general sinks with aggressive chemistry.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wash my deflectors on an automatic wash?
You can, but with caution. A contactless wash is safe if high-quality chemistry is used. On contact washes, brushes can leave micro scratches and stains, so it is better to wipe them manually after passing the machine.
How to remove white plaque on old deflectors?
White plaque is often a sign of oxidation of plastic or residues of dried chemicals. Try using special cleaners-reducing agents for black plastic or light polishing milk. If the plastic has faded due to UV radiation, only painting or replacing it will help.
How often should the windbreakers be cleaned?
It is recommended to pay attention to them at every second or third car wash. If you drive frequently on the highway or in dusty conditions, cleaning is required after each such trip to prevent insects and dust from getting into the structure.
Is it safe to use WD-40 for cleaning?
The classic WD-40 is not recommended, as it contains oils that can soften some types of plastic and leave a greasy film collecting dust. There are specialty WD-40 plastic products that can be used.