Different Types of Car Spoilers and Their Functions

For every vehicle enthusiast, the car’s outward aesthetics matter as much as its inner functionality. And what’s a better addition to aesthetics than one that further enhances the car’s overall performance? That’s exactly what car spoilers bring to the table. If you’re wondering what they are, then worry not. In this article, we’ll explore the types of spoilers in cars, their functions, etc.

For a newbie, you may recall them as the wing-like shapes installed on sports motors. Because that’s how they originated, too. But they’re more than just decor for speedsters. They have a huge benefit based entirely on physics.

What are Spoilers in Cars?

They are aerodynamic devices designed to improve the flow of air around a car to make it efficient for driving. They’re mostly installed on trunks but can be equally essential mounted on the front to direct air to the sides of a vehicle instead of underneath.

By doing this, they contribute to stability, traction, and overall performance when driving. They were originally invented for sports cars. But now, all kinds, including SUVs and sedans, have it as a feature.

Benefits

  1. Enhance aerodynamics by increasing downforce, and stabilizing the automobile at high speeds.
  2. Reduce drag, allowing the car to cut through the air easily.
  3. Enhances fuel efficiency by reducing air pressure on the car.
  4. Provide a sporty, aggressive, and aesthetic look.

Different Types of Spoilers in Car

These feature different styles, with each possessing a different characteristic and benefits. Let’s go through each type below…

Lip Spoiler

Also known as a deck lid, this type of spoiler in cars is a subtly effective addition to the vehicle. Usually installed on the edge of the trunk, they improve stability by slightly increasing downforce, without impacting fuel efficiency. Furthermore, they’re ideal for hatchbacks and sedans, their sporty appearance enhances a vehicle’s overall design.

Pedestal

These are installed on raised pillars above the trunk lid, turning into a prominent aerodynamic feature. They generate downforce on rear wheels, i.e. vertical force on tires. Hence, increasing their grip, and improving stability. These are common in sports and other high-performing vehicles, adding to their style and functionality.

Ducktail

The Ducktail type of spoilers in cars features a distinct shape, popular among car enthusiasts who want to refine their vehicle’s performance and style. It increases efficiency and reduces drag by managing airflow at the rear of the automobile. However, a ducktail requires modifications to the trunk, so keep in mind this is more or less a permanent purchase.

Roof

Mounted on the rear roof, above the rear window, these are common on sports hatchbacks and SUVs. Made for vehicles that travel off-road, they improve stability and grip at high speeds. These types of spoilers in cars come in various styles, including pedestal, lip, and ducktail, offering different performance levels and appeal.

Race Car Rear Wing

These are large and adjustable rear spoiler types, hence, playing an essential role in optimising on-track aerodynamics. They enhance traction and handling by creating downforce during high-speed cornering. Race car rear wings are installed on high-performing sports automobiles. Their functionality plays as important a role as their aggressive appearance.

Whale Tail

Popular in the 80s and 90s, the whale tails are a large rear wing type of spoilers in cars, resembling the tail of a whale. Its iconic design isn’t the only memorable part of it, though. A whale tail generates significant downforce, reduces lift, and improves high-speed grip. It’s a well-known choice for classic enthusiasts.

Bi-Plane

These types of spoilers in cars feature two wings or flaps, designed for high-performance racing. Moreover, the Bi-plane provides stability and improves handling, allowing for precision at high speeds. They’re adjustable, so the car can easily be fine-tuned for the track. However, one issue faced with bi-planes is they create drag, making them unsuitable for everyday vehicles.

Gurney Flap

A small, right-angled flap attached to the edge of a car spoiler. This creates a pressure difference between the top and bottom surface of the accessory, hence resulting in downforce. The Gurney flap, named after Dan Gurney, is found on race vehicles and high-performing automobiles.

Active Spoiler

They possess electronic sensors that adjust their angle of attack based on driving conditions. Moreover, these are types of spoilers in cars mounted on high-performance automobiles to enhance performance at high speeds. They optimise driving and improve handling, stability, and fuel efficiency.

Chassis-Mounted Wing

Attached to the rear chassis or subframe of the vehicle, these types of spoilers in cars improve handling and stability. They increase downforce on rear wheels. These wings are found on race and sports automobiles, with their fine-tuning features essential in optimising performance.

Materials Used for the Best Spoilers for Cars

Materials used to manufacture different types of spoilers in cars differ in weight, cost, and durability.

ABS Plastic

Lightweight and affordable, ABS is used in creating different types of spoilers in cars. It’s easy to mould and durable, making it popular for factory-installed, after-market accessories. They’re easy to install and maintain, making them practical for everyday use.

Fibreglass

They’ve lightweight and customizable properties. Fibreglass can be moulded into various shapes, sizes, and designs, making them an aesthetically flexible choice. While they’re durable and strong, they require careful maintenance and can be susceptible to damage.

Carbon Fibre

This material is premium and used in high-performance vehicle accessories. Carbon Fiber has an excellent strength-to-weight ratio. This makes them lightweight and durable, hence, perfect for racing. However, being premium, they require proper handling and care to avoid damage.

Aluminium

These are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and durable, making them popular for after-market and factory-installed applications. They offer a good balance of performance and cost, making them suitable for a variety of automobiles.

Purpose of Spoiler in Cars

Installing different types of spoilers in cars serves different benefits. Here’s what you should know…

Improved Stability and Traction

Automotive spoilers increase downforce, which helps keep the vehicle grounded on the road, especially during high-speed driving and cornering.

Enhanced Aerodynamics

These improve a vehicle’s overall efficiency in airflow resistance, leading to better fuel economy and performance.

Aesthetic Appearance

There are many different types of spoilers in cars, and all a different style, creating a sporty and aggressive look for any automobile. Hence, they’re a very popular choice among enthusiasts.

Enhanced Brake Performance

These accessories improve brake performance by enhancing drag when needed and helping slow down efficiently.

There you have it. Different types of spoilers in cars have different applications and benefits and serve as more than just a stylish accessory to enhance your car’s look and feel. They help stabilise your driving and make it a lot safer, while also increasing efficiency.