So my son hit the factory spoiler on my QX4 with a basketball over the weekend and shattered it. its not repairable. i've found an OEM replacements but its $385!! I'm wondering if the damn thing is even functional, or more to the point worth replacing. Picture of said spoiler below (mounted at the top of the rear hatch near the roof line)



[Edited on February 21, 2011 at 1:29 PM. Reason : resize]

2/21/2011 1:14:00 PM

NMSJ

2/21/2011 1:22:30 PM

Don't waste your money.

2/21/2011 1:32:24 PM

its gonna look stupid with holes sticking out in the open and no spoiler.

call around to junk yards

2/21/2011 1:38:20 PM

From what I have been told, its purpose is to help keep the back window clean.
That may be a function, but it sure isn't needed.

2/21/2011 1:39:07 PM

www.car-part.com

2/21/2011 1:39:15 PM

that is the function, to keep the dust from building up on the rear window, and they do work somewhat.

2/21/2011 1:54:02 PM

I imagine as a byproduct of keeping the window clean, it creates lift in the rear... not that you'd go fast enough for it to matter, just pointing out that it's not a spoiler in the traditional sense.

2/21/2011 2:09:57 PM

I hope it didnt damage that sweet 311 sticker

2/21/2011 2:46:52 PM

We're not in Kansas anymore.

2/21/2011 3:18:34 PM

Quote :

"From what I have been told, its purpose is to help keep the back window clean. That may be a function, but it sure isn't needed."

Yes but the qx4 also has a butt wiper with wiper fluid right? so its not really needed
if you can stand the look of the 2 stubs hanging out or have just found a way to plug the holes go for it.

Quote :

"I imagine as a byproduct of keeping the window clean, it creates lift in the rear... not that you'd go fast enough for it to matter, just pointing out that it's not a spoiler in the traditional sense."

yes it creates a minimal amount of lift but also aids in making an air cushion behind the vehicle.
(see truck bed circular airflow)

2/21/2011 3:27:01 PM

Quote :

"I hope it didnt damage that sweet 311 sticker"

that's not a picture of my actual truck. i don't have any stickers on my truck, i just needed a picture for representation.

yes there is a rear window wiper and fluid so I can keep the back clean like that. my major concern was if i was going to experience reduced fuel economy. i didn't think i would, as Ahmet said it probably creates a little lift. regardless, it would have to make a significant impact on the fuel economy to break even on a $350 part. even the salvage yards are charging $150 which isn't worth it to me. I may replace it if i decide to sell it one day but for now its going to stay as it is.

concerning the appearance, it doesn't look too bad. the mounting studs/brackets are exposed but its not big deal.

2/22/2011 8:52:17 AM

Functional for yuppies

2/22/2011 1:07:48 PM

Go to the junkyard, pull one off a pathfinder.

2/22/2011 1:16:34 PM

all the ones i have seen (car-part.com only) have been from pathfinders. i may just have to call around to a few of the local boys to see if they have one.

2/22/2011 1:21:28 PM

i dont have one on the explorer, and that damn back window STAYS dirty

2/22/2011 2:12:03 PM

The more important issue: did the kid get a good whalopping?

2/22/2011 3:41:49 PM

hey got a stern talkin to but i didn't whoop him b/c he was honest. he was crying when he came to me about it so i figured that was enough.

2/23/2011 8:20:15 AM

just make sure you get his shot right. we could use a shooter other than Wood

2/23/2011 6:56:13 PM

it probaly helps keep the back window clean like other people said but other than that any spoiler on a passenger vehicle doesn't do anything under speeds of 120mph

2/23/2011 9:26:29 PM