Windshield sun shades are a product that too many car owners ignore. Most people don’t think it’s worth the effort of installing sun shades onto their windshield every time that they get out of the car. However, doing so could seriously prolong the life of the upholstery and equipment within the vehicle. It could also keep the inside temperature of your car within a reasonable range that’s still fairly comfortable.
This isn’t a product that you just want to grab off the shelves. It’s not as easy as buying a charger for your phone. There are several considerations before choosing the best sun shade to buy for your car or truck. Keep reading to learn more about keeping your car cool and shielding it from damaging sun. You’ll also find our list of our favorite sun shades for 2024.
- How to Choose the Best Windshield Sun Shades
- Top 10 Best Windshield Sun Shades 2024
- 1. Best Overall Pick: Magnelex Windshield Sun Shade
- 2. Best Premium Pick: EcoNour Windshield Sun Shade
- 3. Best Budget Pick: EzyShade Windshield Sun Shade
- 4. Best ASE-Certified: A1 210T Windshield Sun Shade
- 5. Best 2-Piece: Autoamerics Windshield Sun Shade
- 6. Best Designs: BDT Auto Front Windshield Sun Shade
- 7. Best Reflective: Fortem Windshield Sun Shade
- 8. Best for Winter: Motor Trend Windshield Sun Shade
- 9. Most Portable: X-Shade Windshield Sun Shade
- 10. Best for SUVs: Shinematix 2-Piece Windshield Sun Shade
- A Complete Guide to Windshield Sun Shades
- Protect the Inside of Your Car
How to Choose the Best Windshield Sun Shades
Most windshield sun shades look oddly similar to one another. It can be hard to differentiate between two different types of windshield sun shades and narrow down your options if you don’t know what you’re looking for. The thing that sets each windshield sun shade apart from one another is the material that it’s made of, its size and fit and its ease of use. We’ll look at these factors in more detail below.
Material
This is where most windshield sun shades will vary. Although many products may look alike, they’ll actually be made from different materials. Consider the type of material that the shades are made of, how thick the material is and how well it can reflect the sun’s powerful rays away from your car. You should also ideally look for a product that has some insulating properties as well, as this will keep the inside of your vehicle cool even when it’s steaming hot outside!
There are many materials to choose from, but the best sun shades will be made out of polyester and have a thin coating of silver on top. The silver is the reflective material that prevents the sun’s rays from getting into the car.
Some other manufacturers may use other reflective materials. Another common material is nylon. Nylon windshield sun shades tend to be a bit cheaper; however, they’re not as effective at protecting the inside of your car from UV damage. It’s also not very good at keeping your car cool.
Another thing to consider about the material is its thread count (T). A higher thread count represents a higher density and tighter weave and will do a better job at blocking UV radiation.
Size/Fit
Every make and model out there will have a slightly different windshield size and shape. Make sure that you are buying a windshield sun shade that is the right size for your car. You want something that will be able to cover your entire windshield with ease to prevent any heat or UV rays from getting inside the car. Most windshield sun shades come in sizes XXS to XXL.
Some windshield sun shades are adjustable. Most of the time, you’re going to need to measure the size of the windshield and try to find a product that can offer as close of a fit as possible. Most products will have some type of flexible wiring inside that will allow you to alter the shape of the shades, so they wrap around the windshield perfectly.
Ease of Use
Last but not least, look for something that’s easy to install. You really don’t have that much room to move inside your car, so you want a product that is easy to fold and store. Ideally, the windshield sun shade shouldn’t take more than a couple of minutes to install and disassemble. Anything longer than that and the product isn’t really that convenient at all. When the sun shade is folded up, it should be small enough to store in the trunk or in the glove box. It should not take up too much space.
Now that you know what to look for, here are our top 10 selections. Looking for maximum sun protection? Be sure to also check out our list of the best side window sun shades.
Top 10 Best Windshield Sun Shades 2024
1. Best Overall Pick: Magnelex Windshield Sun Shade
Editor’s Rating:
Overview
The Magnelex Windshield Sun Shade is a high quality product made from good materials that are capable of blocking out most of the sun’s rays. It’s easy to install and easy to store, making it one of our favorite products on our list.
This windshield sun shade comes with a pouch and a steering wheel cover! The steering wheel cover will protect the steering wheel from fading or cracking. The pouch also makes it easy to store this product in your glove box or in your trunk.
You can also try this product risk-free. If you don’t like it at all, the manufacturer offers a money back or a free replacement guarantee!
Material
This windshield sun shade is made from 210T polyester. It’s very reflective and can block up to 99% of the sun’s rays. Polyester is also water resistant and coated to resist both rot and mildew, so this is a product that will last a long time. At the very least, this sun shade can maintain its color and strength for 5 years. The polyester does a great job at protecting your car from sunlight and keeping it cool.
Size/Fit
This is a universal sun shade, and one size will fit most sedans and mid-sized SUVs perfectly. It comes in three different sizes: medium, large and extra-large. A medium can fit a sedan the same size as a BMW 6 series or a mid-size SUV like a BMW X6. A large can fit a Chevrolet Malibu or Tahoe and an XL can fit a Chrysler Voyager.
This sun shade comes in one piece, so you need to take careful measurements of the windshield. If you’re looking for something with more adjustability and leeway for measurement errors, consider the EzyShade Windshield Sun Shade.
Ease of Use
This is a very easy product to install. It will pop open and unfold the minute that you take it out of its storage pouch. Simply place the sun shade against the windshield, and you’ll be good to go.
It’s also easy to store this product as well. All you have to do is fold the product in half and make sure that the frames are even and in place. Next, grab the top left and bottom right corners and twist in the opposite direction to make an ‘8’ shape. You can then push your hands together and the windshield sun shade will automatically fold together to make an even smaller circle. Wrap the sun shade with an elastic band (optional) and store it in the storage bag.
Pros
- Fits perfectly to most sedans
- Easy to install
- Made from polyester
- Comes with free pouch and steering wheel cover
- 100% money-back Guarantee
Cons
- Material is thinner than other
Editor’s Rating:
Overview
Protect your vehicles from the sun’s ray using the EcoNour Windshield Sun Shade. This is a premium sun shade that can keep your car cool and will prevent harmful UV rays from entering the car. The products are designed in New Jersey, USA by a family-owned business that was founded in 2015.
This sun shade is a tad pricier than other alternatives, but it’s definitely well worth the price! EcoNour offers a 100% money-back guarantee. If you don’t love their sun shades, they’ll refund you your money! If you’re looking for something that’s a better deal price-wise, consider the EzyShade Windshield Sun Shade. It can reduce the heat inside the cabin by up to 82%!
Material
This sun shade is made from high density 230T polyester. It’s a bit thicker than the Magnelex Windshield Sun Shade, so it’s a bit better at preventing UV rays from entering the car. It can reduce the inside cabin temperature by up to 40℉.
It has 8 inches of overlapping circle in the middle and steel rings that hold the frames together. These steel rings are significantly stronger than the metal wirings used by other brands. All in all, EcoNour Windshield Sun Shades are high quality and will last for years.
Size/Fit
In comparison to other companies, EcoNour also has more size variations. They have the classic, the standard, the large, the XS and the X-Large. Most sedans and SUVs will fit a standard although a larger sedan like the Audi S5 will fit a large.
These windshield sun shades will cover the entire windshield and offer a great fit regardless of the make and model of your car.
Ease of Use
This sun shade is known for its quick installation and folding design. It is easy to store and most users usually keep them in their glove compartment or door pocket. When you take the sun shade out of its pouch, it will pop open. All you have to do is place the sun shade against the windshield and pull the visors down to hold it in place.
To fold the sun shade, fold the shade in half and twist both sides in opposite directions. Push your hands together and it’ll all collapse into a small circle. You can store this small circle in a pouch.
Pros
- Made from high quality 230T polyester
- Capable of reducing the cabin temperature by up to 40℉
- Offers UV and sun ray protection
- Durable steel ring frames
- 100% money back guarantee
Cons
- Pricier than other alternatives
3. Best Budget Pick: EzyShade Windshield Sun Shade
Editor’s Rating:
Overview
Every purchase comes with a storage pouch and an extra non-slip sticky dashboard mat. This mat is super convenient. You place it on your dashboard, and you can put your cell phone, change and other small items on top without worrying about them slipping.
Material
EzyShade Windshield Sun Shades are made from polyester and can block up to 99% of the sun’s rays and reduce heat in your vehicle by over 82%. It has a Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) of 0.18. Most other sun shades don’t even come close!
The only other sun shade that can probably do a better job is the EcoNour Windshield Sun Shade. This sun shade, however, will still keep your car nice and cool even during the sweltering summer months. The material is very lightweight, strong and durable.
Size/Fit
When it comes to size and fit, you’ll find these sun shades in three different sizes: sports, standard and max. The sports size can fit a sedan like the BMW 3 series or a Buick Reatta. The standard size can fit a Chevrolet Astro or a Cadillac ATS and the max size can fit a Ford Escape or a Benz R-Class.
These sun shades come in 2 identical rectangular shades. You can install them vertically or horizontally, as a portion of each sun shade will overlap with the other. They’ll stay put even if you don’t use the visors to hold them in place.
Ease of Use
This is one of the easiest sun shades to install. All you have to do is pop them out of their storage bag and place them onto the back of the windshield. The product is also relatively easy to fold as well. All you have to do is layer the two sun shades together, twitch them into an ‘8’ shape and fold it into a circle before storing it in its pouch.
Pros
- Strong and durable polyester material
- Capable of blocking up to 99% of the sun’s rays
- Can reduce heat by over 82%
- Easy to install and adjustable
- Comes with a non-slip dashboard mat
Cons
- Not a perfect fit
4. Best ASE-Certified: A1 210T Windshield Sun Shade
Editor’s Rating:
Overview
This windshield sun shade was designed by an ASE-Certified Master Technician, so you can rest assured that it’s high in quality. Its price point is very similar to the Magnelex Windshield Sun Shade. This sun shade blocks UV rays and heat well although not as efficiently as the Magnelex Windshield Sun Shade.
Material
This product is made from a mix of polyester and nylon. Polyester is the superior material and does an excellent job at blocking almost all of the sun’s rays and heat. If you’re looking for something that’s made completely out of polyester, you’re better off with EcoNour Windshield Sun Shade. The nylon in this product does make it a bit more flexible and bendable.
Although it’s made from a mix of different fabrics, the A1 210T Windshield Sun Shade is still a fairly efficient and durable sun shade, as the thread count is 210. It has a twin-support conjoined design that makes the sun shield even sturdier.
Size/Fit
This is where this sun shade really shines! Unlike many other competitors, like the Magnelex Windshield Sun Shade, these sun shades come in 7 different sizes. It’s really easy to find a size that will fit your windshield perfectly. It offers a perfect fit on vertically short windshields. A small will fit a BMW X2 or Z4 and a XL will fit a truck like the Ford F150.
The product is made with high ductile materials. This gives it overlapping features that allow for a perfect fit that you can easily adjust.
Ease of Use
This windshield sun shade is just as easy to install and remove as most other products. Simply pop the sun shades out of their bag and they’ll unfold. You can slide your sun shade right above the dashboard on the car’s interior.
To fold the sun shade, fold the two sides together and twist it an ‘8’ shape before collapsing both sides together. You can store this product in the storage pouch that it comes with.
Pros
- 210 Thread Count
- Blocks sun’s rays and heat efficiently
- Quick installation and convenient storage
- Comes in 7 different sizes
- Designed by ASE-Certified Master Technician
Cons
- Made from a mix of nylon and polyester
5. Best 2-Piece: Autoamerics Windshield Sun Shade
Editor’s Rating:
Overview
The Automerics Windshield Sun Shade is another popular choice thanks to its innovative 2-piece design, which is similar to the EzyShade Windshield Sun Shade.
If aesthetics is a huge component of your purchase, this sun shade isn’t going to measure up to the BDT Auto Front Windshield Sun Shade, which comes in 12 different designs.
This sun shade comes with a storage pouch and two anti-slip pads for the dashboard. You can use these pads to hold small items like your keys or change.
Last but not least, this product is designed in the USA!
Material
It’s made from high density UV reflective material that’s reinforced with high strength ductile wire. This makes this product incredibly sturdy and durable. With that said, the manufacturer never specifies the thread count of the material or the exact fabric.
The EzyShade Windshield Sun Shade has the same design but is made from 100% polyester. You can rest assured that it’s high in quality, sturdy and durable.
That said, the manufacturer claims that this sun shade can offer over 99% UV protection and sun reflection. It will keep the inside of your car cool even in the scorching summer heat, and will protect the dashboard and upholstery from fading or cracking.
Size/Fit
This windshield sun shade comes in 3 different sizes: sports, standard and max.
Each sports piece measures 23.5 by 29 inches, and will fit most compact and sports cars, like an Audi R8 or a BMW 3 series, with ease. Each piece of a standard sun shade measures 28 by 31 inches and will fit most standard cars, sedans and mid-size SUVs and trucks with ease. It’ll fit a Chevrolet Astro or a Buick Cascada. A large piece measures 32.5 by 36 inches and will fit large SUVs and trucks, like a Hyundai Entourage.
The innovative 2-piece design is quite popular amongst many car owners because it can be installed vertically or horizontally. It’s easy to get the perfect fit! You can also overlap the pieces in the middle in order to accommodate different windshield sizes.
Ease of Use
This sun shade is easy to store and install. If you take the sun shades out of their storage pouch, they’ll pop open. You can place the sun shades against the dashboard and use the rearview mirror or the sun visors to hold them in place.
To store the shades, align them together and twist them into an ‘8’ shape before collapsing both sides together to create a small circle. Slide the shades into the storage bag and you’re done!
Unlike the Shinematix 2-Piece Windshield Sun Shade, it doesn’t come with an elastic that holds the small circles in place. With that said, it is quite a bit cheaper than the Shinematix 2-Piece Windshield Sun Shade, so if you can master putting the shades back into their bag without an elastic, you’re golden!
Pros
- Blocks 99% of UV rays
- Comes in 3 different sizes
- Can be installed vertically or horizontally thanks to its 2-piece design
- Easy to install and remove
- Designed in USA
Cons
- Doesn’t have elastic to hold it in place
6. Best Designs: BDT Auto Front Windshield Sun Shade
Editor’s Rating:
Overview
If the design of the sun shade will be a major part of your purchasing decision, this is the best brand out there because the sun shades come in many printed designs rather than just one solid color. You’ll find some cute designs like a dog wearing sunglasses, some pretty designs like butterflies, and some patriotic designs with the American flag on it. There’s really something for everyone.
You can even flip the sun shade over and use the other side. The other side doesn’t have any prints on it and is just silver in color.
Material
It’s made with a double bubble construction, and much more durable and rigid than sun shades made from polyester or nylon, like the Autoamerics Windshield Sun Shade.
The two layers of air bubbles inside make this product more rigid, so it’ll hold its form even after many years. There’s more girth to the structure, and this makes it tougher.
The double-sided layer also does an excellent job at insulating your car and preventing any UV rays or heat from entering. In fact, this sun shade can reduce the interior car temperature by 30℉ to 50℉. That’s the difference between scorching heat and tolerable warmth.
Size/Fit
Unfortunately, this product only comes in one size, so there’s not a lot of room for adjustability there. Also, the accordion style does give you some leeway and will help make this sun shade suitable for almost all personal vehicles. You’ll need to use the rearview mirror as support.
This sun shade also has tapered edges that allow for a snugger fit. There are also deep cutouts that will fit the rearview mirror.
Ease of Use
Like with all accordion style sun shades, this sun shade is incredibly easy to fold up and store away. It is, however, a bit chunky. If you’re looking for something more compact, take a look at the X-Shade Windshield Sun Shade because it can be folded up to 1/10th of its original size. This sun shade does have a Velcro strap that you can wrap around it before you put it away.
Accordion style sun shades are, however, very easy to install. All you have to do is pop it open and place it on your dashboard. The whole set-up process will only take seconds.
Pros
- Comes in 12 different designs
- Accordion style for easy folding
- Reduces the interior car temperature by 30℉ to 50℉
- Provides 100% UV protection
- Dual usage on both sides
Cons
- Comes in one size and not as fitted as a 2-piece design
- Can be a bit chunky when folded up
7. Best Reflective: Fortem Windshield Sun Shade
Editor’s Rating:
Overview
What makes the Fortem Windshield Sun Shade stand out is that it comes with a one year warranty and a 100% satisfaction guarantee! You can rest assured that you’ll get a full refund if you’re not in love with the product after you’ve received it!
Material
Made from reflective polyester, this sun shade is fairly durable and will do a great job at reflecting the sun’s rays and heat away from your car. This will keep the inside of your car as cool as possible, so you won’t have to spend as much money on AC.
Because of the material, this sun shade only comes in one color: silver. If you’re looking for more customizability, take a look at the Motor Trend Windshield Sun Shade, which comes in 7 different colors!
Size/Fit
In terms of sizing, this sun shade comes in 3 different sizes: standard, large and extra large. A standard will fit a compact like the Mercedes-Benz GLC. A large will fit a Honda Accord and an extra large will fit a Volkswagen Touareg.
Although the different sizes will give you a good fit that’s customized to the windshield size of your car, the fit isn’t as great as with a 2-piece windshield sun shade, like the Autoamerics Windshield Sun Shade. The fact that you can install the pieces vertically or horizontally allows for more adjustability.
Ease of Use
It’s easy to set this sun shade up. Simply unfold it and place it on your dashboard. When you’re done with it, fold it back up and put it in the storage pouch that it comes with. The entire process takes only seconds.
Pros
- Made from reflective material
- Comes in 3 different sizes
- 1 year warranty
- 100% Satisfaction Guarantee
Cons
- Only one design
- Not as fitted as 2-piece sun shades
8. Best for Winter: Motor Trend Windshield Sun Shade
Editor’s Rating:
Overview
The Motor Trend Windshield Sun Shade is unique because it’s double-sided and made from reflective bubble foil. It does a great job at blocking the sun’s rays and heat, and will protect the inside of your car from discoloration and deterioration. It’ll protect LCD screens, GPS devices and upholstery. It also prevents the dashboard from fading or cracking.
This sun shade also comes in 7 different colors, so you can choose a product that fits the aesthetics of your car.
Material
This sun shade is double-sided to give you extra insulation from heat. It’s made with reflective bubble foil that offers excellent insulation against the heat emitted by the sun. The two layers of air bubbles in the middle will also strengthen the overall durability and toughness of this windshield sun shade by adding girth. It’s able to better hold its form in comparison to some other products, like the Fortem Windshield Sun Shade.
The bubble insulation foil does a good job at blocking the sun’s rays and heat. This sun shade offers 100% UV protection and can reduce the interior car temperature by 30℉ to 50℉.
Size/Fit
This windshield sun shade only comes in one size. If you’re looking for more sizes, take a look at the A1 210T Windshield Sun Shades, as they come in 7 different sizes!
With that said, this one size can fit most personal vehicles, as this sun shade is an accordion. You can easily adjust how you want to position the accordion creases to get the perfect fit. You’ll need to use the rearview mirror to support this sun shade and keep it in place. Also, the edges are tapered for a snugger fit.
Ease of Use
The accordion-style design of this sun shade makes it extremely easy to store. You can easily close it by folding it up. The Velcro strap will ensure that everything is in place. Even when you fold it together, this sun shade will still take up some room. If you’re looking for something that’s really compact when folded, take a look at the X-Shade Windshield Sun Shade.
Pros
- Double-sided for convenience and enhanced heat insulation
- Accordion style for easy storage and installation
- Tapered edges for a snug fit
- Can reduce the inside car temperature by 30℉ to 50℉
Cons
- Only available in one size
- Not very small even when folded
9. Most Portable: X-Shade Windshield Sun Shade
Editor’s Rating:
Overview
With over 13 years of experience and over 100,000 happy customers, the X-Shade WIndshield Sun Shade is also another great choice for protecting your car from the sun’s rays and heat. You won’t have to worry about the scorching heat anymore if you have this handy sun shade with you.
You don’t have anything to worry about when you purchase the X-Shade Windshield Sun Shade, as it comes with a 100% satisfaction guaranteed. All of the products carried by X-Shade come with a 30-day guarantee. If you’re unhappy with what you received, you can get a full refund, no questions asked!
Last but not least, this sun shade comes with its own storage pouch and a non-slip pad. You can use the non-slip pad to hold your cell phone, keys or other small objects.
Material
It’s coated with silver nylon that’s capable of blocking 99% of the sun’s UV rays. Although this nylon coating is quite efficient, it is not as durable and sturdy as sun shades made out of polyester, like the EcoNour Windshield Sun Shade, which is made of high-quality 230T polyester.
The exterior is made from cotton lined fabric and it has a weatherproof housing aluminum foil lamination inside.
Size/Fit
This windshield comes in 5 different sizes. Although this is not as impressive as the A1 210T Windshield Sun Shades, it still offers more sizes than some other brands, like the Motor Trend Windshield Sun Shade.
A small will easily fit a Chrysler Crossfire and a medium will easily fit a Dodge Avenger. A large will fit a Honda Odyssey.
It offers a decent, snug fit with almost all car makes and models.
Ease of Use
One of the best features of the X-Shade Windshield Sun Shade is its compactness and portability. This sun shade is easy to fold, and will fold down to 1/10th of its original size, so you can store it easily in the middle console or the glove box.
This sun shade also comes in a cool and stylish pouch.
It’s equally as easy to install this product. Pop it out of its bag, and it will unfold by itself. You can then install it on your windshield and use a sun visor or the rearview mirror to keep it in place.
In short, you can install and fold this product up within seconds.
Pros
- Retractable and folds down to 1/10th of its size
- Comes in 5 different sizes
- Installs in seconds
- Comes with a pouch and a non-slip pad
- 100% money-back guarantee
Cons
- Not as durable as some other sun shades
10. Best for SUVs: Shinematix 2-Piece Windshield Sun Shade
Editor’s Rating:
Overview
The Shinematix 2-piece Windshield Sun Shade is another 2-piece sun shade like the EzyShade Windshield Sun Shade. This makes this product very easy to install and remove. It’s also adjustable, so you get a perfect fit every time. This sun shade can block up 99% of the sun’s rays and also reflect heat. It will protect the interior of your car from damages.
You’ll get a free microfiber cleaning cloth as well as a storage pouch with your purchase. The microfiber towel can be used in both wet or dry conditions, and will remove dust and other particles without scratching your car. The towel can also be used to clean the windshield. Last but not least, this product also comes with a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty. You’ll need to enable the warranty online.
This product is designed in the USA.
Material
This sun shade is advertised as premium 210T, but that only describes the thread count and not the actual material. It’s said to be made from a UV, high-density reflective material that is reinforced with wires and uses high heat reduction technology, but, once again, the material is not specified. This material can block 99% of the sun’s rays and can block heat from entering the car.
Size/Fit
This sun shade comes in three different sizes: small, medium and large. It relies on a 2-piece innovative technology that can be used vertically or horizontally, so you get the best fit possible. A large will fit most big-size SUVs, sedans and trucks.
Ease of Use
This windshield sun shade is incredibly easy to install. The innovative 2-piece system makes this a piece of cake. All you have to do is slide each piece in place above the dashboard. To store the sun shades, layer the shades over one another, twist into the shape of an ‘8’ and fold the pieces together. Attach the pieces together with the elastic strap on the side, and place the folded pieces into the included travel bag. You can install or remove this sun shade within seconds!
Pros
- Protects the interior of the vehicle from UV rays and heat
- Adjustable for a better fit
- Easy to install and store, simply layer and fold
- Comes with a storage bag and a microfiber towel
- Designed in the USA
Cons
- Not clear on what the material is although it is advertised as premium 210T
A Complete Guide to Windshield Sun Shades
Windshield sun shades work! They’re super effective and definitely worth buying if you want to keep your car in tip-top shape. These shades were first patented in 1911 by Frank H. Ilse of Chicago, but they have only become really popular since the mid-1970s.
These products will block visible light from entering the sun and getting absorbed by the objects in the car. You need to remember that most windshields are already tinted and will block a good chunk of the UV light coming from the sun. Finding a good windshield sunshade isn’t easy. Many of the products on the market look pretty similar to one another, which is why it’s important to always read the product information to get more insight into the technologies that are incorporated into each design.
Other Factors to Consider
Although windshield sun shades are simple tools, there are many things that you need to consider when narrowing down your options. Some other factors that may come into play are listed below.
Looks
Not all windshield sun shades look the same. Many of the newer products on the market now look quite stylish. Some have interesting designs on them, and can even be used as a type of decoration. Look for a color and design that you love and is somewhat reflective of the things that you like or your personality. You’ll feel like you got a better deal if you’re able to find a product that speaks to you.
Warranty
You’d be absolutely gobsmacked at how many manufacturers offer some type of warranty on windshield sun shades. Some of these products may come with no warranty, but others may come with a lifetime replacement warranty or even a 1-year warranty like the Shinematix 2-Piece Windshield Sun Shade.
Make sure that you check the warranty that’s offered first before you buy it. A good warranty will give you peace of mind knowing that you can easily get a replacement should anything happen to the product.
Durability
Consider how long the windshield sun shade will last you and how often you’ll need to replace it. Most windshield sun shades are fairly reasonably priced and within the same price range, so you’re not really going to find a great bargain on them. The biggest difference is the quality of the sun shades and how long they’ll last. A good windshield sun shade can easily last you decades. The only time that you’ll need to replace the sun shade is when you switch to a different car.
Type
Although most sun shades look almost identical, there are different types. They include:
- A custom-fit, collapsible sun shade, which will fit perfectly to your car’s windshield. These sun shades are designed with the exact same dimensions as your windshield, so it can offer full coverage. These products tend to be a bit more expensive, as they can only fit one car model. With that said, you’ll get a much better fit. You won’t have to worry about gaps or excess material spilling out from the edges.
- A universal-fit, collapsible sun shade, which is designed to be used on a variety of cars. This may not be an exact fit. There may be some gaps on the edges or some material may spill out from the sides. However, these sun shades tend to be much cheaper than custom options and will do the trick as well.
- An accordion sun shade, which folds in an accordion-like manner. These sun shades are less likely to slip off the windshields and usually offer a universal fit. However, due to the accordion-like nature of these products, they tend to be a bit bulkier.
Knowing which type is best for your car can be difficult, so you’ll need to take into consideration all of the factors as well listed here as well. Any type would fit your car. Although a custom may fit perfectly, a universal-fit sun shade may still cover everything that needs to be covered.
Adhesive
Some sun shades come with adhesives that will either stick to the side of the car or to the windshield. These adhesives prevent the sun shades from slipping, especially if you’ll be away from your car for long periods of time.
How to Install Windshield Sun Shades
Accurately measure the size of your windshield before purchasing a sun shade. Get a custom fitted one or a universal one that fits as close as possible. Place the top of the sun shade between the rearview mirror and the top of your windshield and push the bottom of the sun shade against the bottom of the windshield. Push the sides in at the side as well. Keep the sun shade in place by folding down the visors. Watch the video below for a walkthrough!
PRO TIP: If the sun shades are slipping, consider taping it to the sides using Velcro tape. A 1.5-inch tape will usually do the trick just fine!
Reasons to Use Windshield Sun Shades on Your Car
Is it really worth the time and effort to place a windshield sun shade to your car every time you get out? While it is a personal choice, most experts do recommend putting in the effort for the reasons below.
#1. It’ll Cool Down Your Car During the Summer and Warm It Up During the Winter
That’s right. You should install windshield sun shades not only during the summer, but during the winter as well. Contrary to belief, it’s useful to install windshield sun shades on your car throughout the entire year.
During the summer, these shades will protect the inside of your car from becoming sweltering hot. In fact, good shades can reduce the internal temperature by up to 40 degrees! This is extremely important as the inside of your car can get a lot hotter than the outside temperature.
During the winter, these shades can also increase the temperature inside your vehicle, so you won’t freeze to death while you wait for your engine to heat up. Most windshield sun shades have heat-absorbing materials in them that won’t make the inside of your car feel toasty, but will make it bearable.
#2. It Can Block UV Rays
If you’re sitting inside your car, installing a windshield sun shade can protect you and your passengers from UV rays that can lead to skin cancer. The shades can also protect the interior from fading, so your dashboard, upholstery and console look new even as they age. UV rays can actually crack and fade your steering wheel. Last but not least, these shades can also protect electronics inside the car, like GPS devices, DVD players, phones or computer tablets that may be left inside. polyester sun shades can block up to 99% of the sun’s rays!
#3. They’re Really Affordable
For all of the things that windshield sun shades can do, they’re surprisingly affordable. You can easily buy one without breaking the bank. By installing this product, you can prevent costly repairs in the future. Replacing a cracked steering wheel can cost several hundred, if not thousands, of dollars depending on the make and model of your vehicle.
Protect the Inside of Your Car
Get a windshield sun shade to protect the inside of your car. They deflect heat, prevent UV rays from damaging the consoles and upholstery inside and are super affordable. They’re also easy to install and small enough that you can store them in a glove box or in the middle console. Best of all, you don’t need to be a rocket scientist to install them or put them away.
When looking for a windshield sun shade, take the time to research each product and consider some of our recommendations above. We’ve listed some of the best products on the market based on the materials they’re made of and other factors.
