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2001 BMW X5 Bug Deflectors & Shields

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How Do Bug Deflectors Work?

While it’s common knowledge that bug deflectors prevent insects, rocks, and small debris from slapping against your ride’s hood or windshield, the science behind them isn’t as well-known. Contrary to popular belief, bug deflectors don’t just take the brunt of impact but physically alter the front end’s aerodynamics.

Bug deflectors create an updraft of air in front of your vehicle. As you drive, the powerful airflow sweeps incoming debris upwards and over the top of your truck, Jeep®, or SUV—pretty neat, right?

Benefits of Bug Deflectors & Shields

Bug deflectors and shields protect your windshield and paint from constant bug splatters, micro-dings, and chips, protecting your ride’s aesthetics and resale value. Bug shields are also aesthetically pleasing, giving your vehicle a rugged front-end profile. You can’t beat a bug deflector for a quick and inexpensive modification.

Considerations When Shopping for a Bug Deflector

When shopping for a new bug deflector, consider the following factors to ensure a quality fit, finish, and functionality:

  • Fitment: Is the deflector molded to your vehicle’s contours? Is it flexible? A quality bug deflector should require little to no massaging or modifications for a quality fit.  

  • Aerodynamics: You should consider the aerodynamics of your prospective bug deflectors for several reasons. While a less aerodynamic bug deflector is unlikely to harm mileage, it may be less effective at deflecting debris. Also, an ill-fitting deflector may contact the hood at high speeds, abrading the paint. 

  • Car Wash-Safe: Do you routinely hit self-service or automated car washes? If so, make sure your deflector can handle the abuse of automatic roller brushes. Regardless, we’ll always recommend a touchless or hand wash to prevent swirls and paint damage. 

  • No-Drill Installation: No one wants to drill holes into their vehicle’s body panels. Not only does this leave lasting damage, but it also drastically lengthens the installation process. 

  • UV/Scratch-Proof: While most bug deflectors are manufactured from UV and scratch-resistant compounds, some lesser-quality products are far less resistant to scuffs and fading. Before purchasing, verify that the deflector is manufactured from quality materials like ABS, acrylic, or polycarbonate.

  • Warranty: How’s the warranty? Does it cover finish defects? Like most products, the best bug deflectors typically include the longest and most comprehensive warranties.

Bug Deflector Styles

Aside from fitment, there are several styles of bug deflectors–namely constructions and finishes. 

Most bug deflectors are manufactured from quality plastics, including: 

  • ABS plastic: A tough, abrasion, impact, and UV-resistant plastic with a rugged black finish. 

  • Polycarbonate: A stiff, durable, and semi-transparent thermoplastic.

  • Acrylic: A tough, transparent plastic with exceptional clarity and abrasion, impact, and UV resistance. 

Finishes vary; however, most bug deflectors are available in a sleek, semi-transparent smoke finish. Other less-popular finishes include chrome, matte black, painted, and even American flag print.  

Besides colors, we also offer an assortment of illuminated bug deflectors featuring embedded LED lights, such as theAVS Aeroskin® LightShield.

RealTruck Expert Picks

Check out some of our staff’s top bug deflectors.

Top Jeep® Pick: Bushwacker Trail Armor Hood Guard Kit

Why we love it: 

  • Durable thermoplastic construction

  • Protects your hood from dents, dings, and scratches

  • Stands up to the wear and tear of off-roading

  • OEM matte black finish

  • UV treated to protect against fading, cracking, and warping

  • Quick and easy install

  • Made in the USA

  • Limited lifetime warranty

Low Cost, High-Quality Protection: Stampede VP Bug Shield

Why we love it: 

  • Impact-resistant acrylic construction

  • Semi-transparent smoke finish

  • Vehicle-specific contours and fitment

  • UV and scratch-resistant

  • No-drill installation

  • Quick cleaning with stand-away design

  • Car-wash safe

  • Made in the USA

  • Limited lifetime warranty

Why we love it: 

  • UV-resistant Dura-Flex® 2000 TPO construction

  • Contoured, low-profile design

  • Available in OEM paint code Color-Match finishes

  • Built-in light strip with five amber LED marker lights

  • Multiple light output sequences add flash and function

  • Sequential display for turn signals, hazard lights, and more

  • Installs in minutes with 3M automotive-grade adhesive and wiring kit

  • Car-wash safe

  • Made in the USA

  • 3-year limited warranty