Spoilers: not just for show
When someone mentions a spoiler, most people picture that big "wing" on the back of a car driven by teenagers with too much confidence. But spoilers are actually a lot more than that. They are functional aerodynamic elements that affect how a car behaves at higher speeds, reduce air drag, improve grip and, yes, also look good along the way.
Modern cars, especially sports models and GT versions, come with factory spoilers and aero packages that are carefully designed in wind tunnels. These parts are not cheap. An original rear spoiler for a BMW M Sport pack can cost EUR 200 to 500. A front splitter for an Audi S-line? EUR 300 to 600. A complete aero kit for a Mercedes AMG? You really do not want to know.
Used spoilers and aerodynamic add-ons are an excellent alternative. Original parts at prices from EUR 30 to 200, in good condition, ready to fit. You just have to know what to watch for.
Types of spoilers and aero add-ons
Before you go shopping, let us get familiar with the different types of aerodynamic parts:
Rear spoiler (wing)
The most familiar type. It is mounted on the rear edge of the boot lid or on the roof (on hatchbacks). Its function is to direct the airflow and create downforce that improves grip on the rear wheels. On road cars the effect is minimal up to about 100 km/h, but above that it becomes noticeable.
There are various variants: small lip spoilers that are discreet and elegant, medium spoilers that are visible but not over the top, and big GT wings made for race cars that on a road car look, let us say, distinctive.
Front splitter (front spoiler)
It is mounted on the lower edge of the front bumper. Its function is to direct air under the car and create downforce on the front axle. On sports models the front splitter is often an integrated part of the front bumper, while aftermarket splitters are fitted as an additional element.
Side skirts
They are fitted along the lower edges of the body, between the front and rear wheels. Their function is to direct the airflow around the sides of the car and reduce turbulence under the vehicle. Visually, side skirts give the car a lower and more aggressive look.
Rear diffuser
It is mounted on the lower part of the rear bumper. Its function is to speed up the airflow under the car, which creates a low-pressure zone that "sucks" the car down. On road cars the effect is minimal, but the visual impact is significant.
Roof spoiler
It is mounted on the rear edge of the roof, usually on hatchback and estate models. Its function is to direct the airflow over the rear window and reduce turbulence behind the vehicle, which improves visibility in wet conditions (less spray on the rear glass).
Spoiler materials
Spoilers are made from various materials, and the material affects price, weight, durability and the ability to repair:
- ABS plastic - the most common material for factory spoilers. Cheap, light, and relatively durable. Can be painted and repaired.
- Polyurethane (PU) - more flexible than ABS, more impact-resistant. Used for front splitters and side skirts because those parts are prone to contact with obstacles.
- Fibreglass (GFK) - a popular aftermarket material. Light and can be shaped into complex forms. The downside is that it is brittle and prone to cracking on impact.
- Carbon fibre - a premium material. Extremely light and strong. Used for sports and luxury spoilers. The price is high, even for used parts.
Original vs. aftermarket spoilers
On the used-spoiler market you will run into two types: original (OEM) and aftermarket. The difference matters.
Original (OEM) spoilers
These are spoilers designed and produced by the car manufacturer. They fit perfectly, the material quality is high, and they usually come already painted in the vehicle's colour. Used OEM spoilers are an excellent choice because you get factory quality for a fraction of the price.
Aftermarket spoilers
They are made by independent manufacturers. Quality varies enormously. Some aftermarket spoilers are almost equal to OEM quality, while others are poorly made with imprecise dimensions, poor materials and visible flaws. With used aftermarket spoilers, be especially careful because it is harder to judge quality.
My advice: whenever possible, choose original spoilers. The price difference between a used OEM and a used aftermarket is not large, but the quality difference can be huge.
What to look out for when buying a used spoiler
- Cracks and breaks - spoilers are prone to cracking, especially fibreglass ones. Inspect the entire surface, especially the edges and mounting points.
- Bends and deformations - the spoiler must be flat and symmetrical. A deformed spoiler will not fit properly against the body.
- Mounting points - check the holes for bolts and clips. If they are broken or enlarged, fitting will be problematic.
- Paint condition - spoilers are exposed to sun and weather, so the paint may be faded, cracked or peeling.
- Originality - check whether the spoiler has OEM markings or a part number. If not, it is probably aftermarket.
Compatibility
Spoilers are specific to model, year and often to equipment package. For example:
- VW Golf GTI has a different rear spoiler from a standard Golf
- BMW M Performance spoiler does not fit a standard bumper
- Facelift and pre-facelift versions can have different spoilers
Before buying, check the OEM part number or send an enquiry to PoDi with your vehicle's full details.
Fitting a spoiler
Spoiler fitting ranges from simple to complex, depending on the type:
- Lip spoiler on the boot - usually stuck on with double-sided tape or fitted with small screws. Simple job, 30 minutes.
- Large rear wing - requires drilling holes in the boot lid to mount it. More complex job, part of a workshop shift.
- Front splitter - mounted on the lower edge of the bumper with bolts or clips. Medium-complexity job.
- Side skirts - fitted with bolts and clips on the lower edge of the body. Requires a lift for access.
Used spoiler prices
- Lip spoiler (rear) - EUR 20 to 60
- Rear spoiler (medium/large) - EUR 40 to 150
- Front splitter - EUR 30 to 120
- Side skirts (pair) - EUR 50 to 200
- Rear diffuser - EUR 40 to 150
- Roof spoiler - EUR 30 to 100
- Carbon-fibre spoilers - EUR 100 to 400
Compared with new parts that start at EUR 100 for simple lip spoilers and run up to EUR 1,000+ for carbon or complete aero kits, the saving is significant.
Conclusion: spoilers are an affordable way to upgrade the look
Used spoilers and aerodynamic add-ons are an excellent way to give your car a sportier look without spending big. The key is choosing original parts whenever possible, checking condition (especially cracks and mounting points), and confirming compatibility with your model.
And remember: a spoiler will not turn your car into a race car, but it will give it character and visual appeal that is appreciated. Send an enquiry to PoDi and compare supplier offers for the right spoiler for your car.