The 2003 models come with a built-in wind deflector -- speed sensitive, really good idea. However, I found it to be noisier than the sunroof and external wind deflector on our 1997 Camry. It also whistled at highway speeds.

So I buy the Toyota external wind deflector for the 4Runner. At highway speeds, it seems to be quieter than before, but between 20-30 mph it causes the sliding cover in the headliner to vibrate and make a terrible noise. When you do a lot of in-town driving, you spend a surprising amount of time between 20-30 mph.

I like the look of the external deflector, but hate the noise.

Took it to the dealer on Friday and all they did for the noise was tighten the screws on the deflector, which did nothing to help. However, they technically didn't have to do anything because I installed the Toyota part, not them.

Now, I'd like to compare the built-in deflector and the external deflector to see which really makes the most noise and choose the better of the two. The problem is that the gasket on the extrnal deflector seems to have a gooey sealant on it, so if I take it off I basically ruin the gasket and have a black mess on the roof.

Questions for the smart people out there (I'm obviously not one of them ):

1. Do any of you have the same noise with your external wind deflector?

2. If you don't have the external deflector, does the built-in one whistle at highway speed?

3. Any idea how to get the gasket and sealant off without ruining it? Or is there a way to replace the gasket? And how can I clean this sealant off without damaging the clear coat?

Any other advice/ideas welcome!!

Thanks in advance.

 

i can only answer number 2

i have no noise what so every that ive heard. i think its really quiet for a sunroof, atleast compared to my past vehicles.

Chris

 

I'm with Chris on this one. I've had 3 vehicles w/ sunroofs and all I have to say it's the best sunroof I've had The sound is like "what sound!". Also when I have the sunroof open, I usually have the back windows open (1 inch or so) so I still get some incabin wind sound so I'm not sure if I will ever hear the whistling sound you're experiencing. I've tried just the sunroof open and I don't remember hearing any whistling sound.

Lance

 

Thanks -- sounds like I need to figure out how to get the exterior deflector off without tearing up the gasket.

After thinking about it for a while, I hope Gunk Bug and Tar remover will take care of the sealant residue.

 

I sometimes have the same problem with the felt cardboard sunroof visor. At about 45-60 the visor tip sticking out vibrates. I think the external and automatic deflector make for a quiet sounding sunroof....no hummmmm at 25mph. No advice on the others.

 

Same as everyone else.. No real complaints about the moonroof.