Bull bars are a popular accessory for off-road vehicles, but they can also be a safety hazard if not installed properly or tested thoroughly.
Bull bars, push bars or bumper bars are metal bars attached to the front of a vehicle to protect it from damage in a collision. Off-road vehicles often use them to protect them from collisions with animals, trees, and other obstacles.
Online retailers for bull bars offer a wide variety of options, so it is important to research before making a purchase.
What to Consider When Choosing a Bull Bar
When choosing a bull bar, there are a few factors to consider:
- Compatibility: Make sure the bull bar is compatible with your vehicle’s make and model.
- Construction: Bullbars are typically made of steel or aluminium. Steel bull bars are stronger and more durable but also heavier. Aluminium bull bars are lighter, but they are not as strong.
- Weight: Bullbars can add significant weight to the front of your vehicle, affecting its handling and performance.
- Features: Some bull bars come with additional features, such as winches, spotlights, and fog lights. Consider which features are important to you, and choose a bull bar with them.
Bull Bar Installation
A qualified professional should install Bullbars. Improper installation can compromise the safety of your vehicle and its occupants.
Here is a general overview of the bull bar installation process:
- The mechanic will remove the front bumper of your vehicle.
- The mechanic will install the bull bar using the provided mounting hardware.
- The mechanic will reinstall the front bumper.
- The mechanic will test the bull bar to ensure it is properly installed and secure.
Bull Bar Crash Testing
Not all bull bars are created equal. Some bull bars protect your vehicle in a collision, while others are designed for aesthetic purposes only.
Choosing a bull bar that has been crash-tested and certified to meet Australian safety standards is important.
How to Find a Crash-Tested Bull Bar
When choosing a bull bar, look for the following:
- Australian Standards (AS) certification: The bull bar should be certified to meet the requirements of AS 4870:2010.
- Crash test results: The bull bar should have been crash tested by a reputable organization, such as the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP).
Conclusion
Bull bars can protect your off-road vehicle, but choosing the right one and installing it properly is important.
When choosing a bull bar, consider the following factors:
- Compatibility
- Construction
- Weight
- Features
Make sure the bull bar is certified to meet Australian safety standards.
Additional Information
Here are some additional things to consider when choosing and installing a bull bar:
- Recovery points: Some bull bars come with integrated recovery points. Recovery points are strong points on the vehicle that can be used to attach a winch or other recovery gear. Choose a bull bar with integrated recovery points if you plan on serious off-roading.
- Airbag compatibility: Some bull bars can interfere with the deployment of airbags. Make sure the bull bar you choose is compatible with the airbags in your vehicle.
- Vehicle warranty: Installing a bull bar may void your vehicle’s warranty. Check with your vehicle manufacturer before installing a bull bar.
Where to Buy a Bull Bar
Bull bars can be purchased from a variety of retailers, including:
- Online retailers
- Off-road accessory stores
- 4WD dealerships
Bottom Line
Bull bars can be a valuable addition to your off-road vehicle, but it is important to choose the right one and install it properly. Consider the factors listed above when choosing a bull bar, and make sure it is compatible with your vehicle and its safety features.
Salman is a prolific environmental writer, and has authored more than 500 articles in reputed journals, magazines and websites. He is proactively engaged in creating mass awareness on renewable energy, waste management, sustainability and conservation all over the world.
Salman can be reached on salman@cleantechloops.com
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