What Are the Pros and Cons of Active Grille Shutters?
2 Answers
Active grille shutters are generally more beneficial than detrimental. The grille shutter resembles common window blinds, and active grille shutters can automatically adjust their opening degree based on actual conditions. The ability to control the opening and closing of the grille means regulating air intake and heat dissipation. For example, when starting the vehicle in cold winter, the grille shutter remains closed, allowing the engine temperature to rise faster, which enhances the car's performance in winter. When the engine temperature is high, the front grille automatically opens for cooling. This means active grille shutters resolve the conflict between summer cooling and winter insulation. Overall, active grille shutters offer more advantages than disadvantages. The main benefit is their ability to automatically regulate the engine temperature, keeping it in the optimal working condition at all times. Additionally, during high-speed driving, closing the grille reduces air resistance, improving the vehicle's fuel efficiency. The downside is their relatively high cost, currently only available in high-end models, while mid-range and entry-level vehicles lack this feature.
I usually commute by car, and the active grille shutter has quite a few benefits—it closes during cold starts in winter, helping the engine warm up faster, saving fuel and quickly heating up the cabin. On highways in summer, it automatically adjusts the opening to reduce drag, slightly lowering fuel consumption and improving stability. The downside is that the components are more complex; if the motor or sensors fail, repairs can be costly, unlike the durability of a standard grille. I think it depends on personal driving habits—it’s quite practical for adjusting airflow in city traffic jams, but long-term maintenance needs to be diligent to avoid frequent breakdowns and increased expenses.
