If you want to add strength and protection, as well as appearance, to your vehicle, bull bars are among the best-selling off-the-shelf products. If you’re an off-road driver, an urban commuter who wants added protection, or just enjoy the tough look they provide for a car, there are many benefits in bull bars. In this guide we are going to explain everything you need to know about bull bars, from their use and types, to the law and how to keep them clean.
What Are Bull Bars?
Bull bars are heavy metal frames installed at the front of a vehicle, typically made of steel, aluminum, or plastic composite. Bull bars were originally designed to safeguard vehicles against animal impacts in the countryside. Nowadays, they have become a three-in-one product that provides protection, appearance, and functionality.
Major Functions of Bull Bars
- Safety Guard against Collisions: Bull bars provide lesser impact in the case of animal collision, which is mostly wild in outback and rural areas.
- Increased Off-Road Capability: Off-road drivers use bull bars because they provide protection from branches, rocks, and other dangers.
- Increased Aesthetics: Most owners of 4×4 and SUV mount bull bars in order to give their cars a rugged, aggressive look.
- Additional Mounting Points: Bull bars offer room for mounting additional accessories such as auxiliary lights, winches, antennas, etc.
Types of Bull Bars
1. Single-Loop Bull Bars
It is equipped with just one loop covering the grille, offering medium protection without sacrificing appearance.
2. Triple-Loop Bull Bars
Triple-loop bull bars offer three loops over front headlights and grille, offering ultimate protection and best suited for off-road and country driving.
3. Nudge Bars
Thin plastic or metal ones, nudge bars provide minimal protection but add to appearance and provide mounts for accessory equipment.
4. Full Bumper Replacement Bull Bars
These substitute the entire front bumper and are most protective. They are generally mounted in extreme off-road use.
Materials Used in Bull Bars
1. Steel Bull Bars
- Most durable and provides the highest degree of protection
- Heavy, which can influence fuel economy and vehicle driving behavior
- Best for serious off-road drivers and for driving in areas infested with wildlife
2. Aluminum Bull Bars
- Lightweight but strong
- Less likely to rust and corrode
- Best for city driving and light off-road driving
3. Plastic & Composite Bull Bars
- Impact-absorbing and light
- Less protective but more flexible than metal counterparts
- Best for city driving where high impacts are not expected
Are Bull Bars Legal?
Regulations about bull bars also differ across nations and states. Bull bars, for example, in Australia are needed to adhere to Australian Design Rules (ADR) so they won’t risk pedestrian safety. Among the most important things considered legally are:
- Bull bars shouldn’t conceal headlights, indicators, or number plates.
- Bull bars should neither be projecting nor pointed and harmful to pedestrians.
- Airbag deployment system compliance should be ensured so the bull bar won’t interfere with the safety mechanisms of the car.
Local legislation should be consulted beforehand while buying and installing a bull bar.
The Right Bull Bar for Your Vehicle
Things to Consider
- Vehicle Compatibility: Select a bull bar suitable for your model and make.
- Purpose: If you do a lot of off-road traveling, a steel or full bumper to replace bull bar would be ideal. For urban driving, a nudge bar or aluminum bull bar would suffice.
- Mounting Options: If you require room for winches, LED lights, or antennas, use a bull bar with pre-drilled mounting holes.
- Weight Considerations: Heavy-duty steel bull bars are very heavy and can impact fuel efficiency and handling.
Installing a Bull Bar
Though some experienced automobile owners install bull bars themselves, it is safer and legally advised to have them fitted professionally. Installation includes:
- Removal of the front bumper when required
- Brackets made strong and attached to the chassis by welding
- Alignment with care in relation to airbag sensors
- Re-assembly of the components and tested for stability
Maintenance Tips for Bull Bars
To keep your bull bar in top condition:
- Regular Cleaning: Wash with mild soap and water to avoid clogging with dirt, particularly after off-road usage.
- Prevention from Rust: Use anti-rust paints or wax on steel bull bars to avoid rusting.
- Check Mountings: Regularly inspect bolts and brackets for looseness.
- Touch-Up Scratches: Touch up minor scratches with suitable paint or polish to maintain appearance.
Are Bull Bars Worth It?
Bull bars do have undeniable advantages, but their value is subject to personal driving requirements. If you drive regularly in wildlife-infested zones, off-road frequently, or merely wish to have a strong front-end protection system, bull bars are an investment worthy of consideration.
Conclusion
Bull bars are a useful and fashionable accessory to a vehicle, providing protection, increased off-road ability, and extra mounting points for accessories. Selecting the right bull bar is your want to drive, car fit, and the law. Whether you are an off-road explorer with rough terrain to traverse or a city commuter requiring increased protection, purchasing a good quality bull bar can provide you with the functionality while providing the style for your car. AutoCraze is where you look for lots of tough as well as stylish bull bars.
