There is a certain pride that comes with taking care of your own vehicle. But beyond the satisfaction of a job well done, getting hands-on with your car is one of the most effective ways to keep more money in your pocket.
Every time you take your vehicle to a professional garage for a simple accessory upgrade, you are paying a premium for labor—sometimes more than the cost of the part itself! At GIT24, our mission is to provide you with the tools, products, and knowledge you need to avoid those unnecessary fees. By sharing our top smart savings tips and budget friendly vehicle hacks, we want to empower you to upgrade your ride with confidence.
Today, we are breaking down everything you need to know about outfitting your vehicle at home, featuring a complete DIY installation guide for one of our most popular upgrades, followed by essential maintenance advice to ensure your gear lasts for the long haul.
The Prep: Getting Ready for Installation
The secret to a flawless installation isn’t professional tools; it is proper preparation. Before you apply any exterior accessories, the surface of your vehicle must be pristine.
- Verify the Fit: Before removing any adhesive backing, hold the accessory up to your vehicle. If you utilized our intuitive fitment systems to select your parts, they should align perfectly with the natural contours of your specific make and model.
- Wash and Dry: Thoroughly clean the application area with automotive soap and water to remove dirt, road grime, and old wax. Dry it completely with a clean microfiber towel.
- Alcohol Wipe Down: This is the most crucial step. Use a 70% isopropyl alcohol wipe on the exact surface where the adhesive will make contact. This strips away invisible oils and guarantees a permanent bond.
Step-by-Step: Window Deflector Installation
Adding deflectors to your vehicle drastically improves airflow and comfort, and putting them on is easier than you might think. Follow this simple window deflector installation process:
- Test Fit (Again): Roll down your windows. Hold the deflector in place to visualize exactly where it needs to sit.
- Peel the Corners: Do not peel off the entire adhesive backing strip at once. Instead, peel back about two inches of the tape from each end, folding the backing so it sticks out over the top of the deflector.
- Position and Stick: Carefully align the deflector into position. Press the exposed, sticky corners firmly against the prepped window frame to lock the piece into place.
- Pull and Press: While holding the deflector steady with one hand, slowly pull the exposed backing tails to remove the rest of the tape. As the tape is exposed, firmly press the deflector into the frame from one end to the other.
- Set the Bond: Apply firm, even pressure along the entire length of the deflector for about 60 seconds. Keep your windows closed and avoid washing the car for at least 72 hours to allow the adhesive to fully cure.
Making It Last: Car Accessory Maintenance
Installing your gear is only half the battle; keeping it looking brand new is how you truly maximize your investment. Proper car accessory maintenance prevents premature wear and tear, ensuring your upgrades stand the test of time.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: When washing your vehicle, stick to dedicated, pH-balanced car shampoos. Harsh dish soaps or industrial degreasers can dry out acrylic accessories and break down adhesive edges over time.
- Inspect the Seals: Make it a habit to check the edges of your deflectors, visors, and trim pieces during your regular car washes. If you notice a corner beginning to lift, gently clean the gap with alcohol and apply a small amount of automotive-grade double-sided tape to re-secure it before dirt gets trapped underneath.
- UV Protection: Exterior accessories are constantly exposed to the sun. To prevent fading or cracking, apply a light coat of a UV-protectant spray or synthetic wax to your acrylic parts every few months.
Taking matters into your own hands doesn’t just save you a trip to the mechanic; it transforms the way you interact with your vehicle. By combining premium, direct-to-consumer parts with a little bit of DIY spirit, you are taking full control of your budget and your journey on the road ahead.