A molded plastic, fiberglass, or carbon fiber component attached to the exterior of a vehicle to alter airflow. Unlike a wing, which is shaped like an inverted airplane foil to generate active downforce, a spoiler simply spoils existing aerodynamic drag or lift by breaking up the boundary layer of air. They are commonly mounted on the rear decklid or front bumper to improve high-speed stability and fuel efficiency.
The customer wants us to bolt a massive rear spoiler onto his front-wheel-drive hatchback.
Adding a massive rear spoiler to a street car often decreases fuel economy and top speed due to added drag, without providing any noticeable handling benefit at highway speeds.
Also heard as
- air dam
Do not mix it up with
- Front wing: A wing actively generates downforce by routing air over and under an airfoil, while a spoiler merely disrupts drag and lift along the vehicle body.
Related terms
Whale tail
A massive, flat rear spoiler with raised rubber edges designed to generate aerodynamic downforce.
Diffuser
An aerodynamic body panel at the rear of a car that increases downforce.
Windsplit
A raised crease or styling line stamped into body panels to enhance a vehicle's visual stance or aerodynamics.