Are Fender and Engine Guard the Same?
3 Answers
Fender and engine guard are not the same. Introduction to Engine Guard: The engine guard is a customized protective device designed for various vehicle models, primarily aimed at preventing mud from encasing the engine. Additionally, it serves to protect the engine from damage caused by impacts from uneven road surfaces during driving. Through a series of designs, it extends the engine's service life and avoids vehicle breakdowns due to external factors that could damage the engine. Functions of Engine Guard: Maintains cleanliness in the engine compartment by preventing road water and dust from entering; protects the engine from being struck by gravel and hard objects kicked up by tires during driving, as such impacts can damage the engine; also prevents scratches and collisions from uneven road surfaces and hard objects.
Fender and engine skid plate are completely different things. The fender is installed above or beside the wheels, mainly to prevent mud, water, and gravel from splashing onto the car body and doors, keeping the paint clean and tidy. It's especially useful during rainy days or on muddy roads. The engine skid plate, on the other hand, is mounted underneath the engine area at the bottom of the car, protecting core components like the engine, transmission, and oil pan from impacts with road obstacles such as stones, potholes, or branches, thereby avoiding serious damage. In terms of location, the fender is visible at the edge of the car body, while the skid plate is hidden underneath the chassis. Functionally, the former is for aesthetics and dirt prevention, while the latter is for impact protection and safety. As an off-road enthusiast, my car is equipped with a steel skid plate and plastic fenders for their lightweight and easy replacement. I recommend new car owners consider installing these, especially if they frequently drive on rough terrains. Regularly check for loose screws and don't wait for problems to arise before fixing them—this way, you can save both trouble and money.
Oh, after driving for 20 years, I can clearly distinguish between fenders and engine skid plates. The fenders are located near the tires, preventing mud and water from dirtying the car body, making cleaning much easier. The engine skid plate is underneath the car, protecting the engine from being damaged by road debris like small stones or trash. Their positions are quite different—one is on the surface to prevent dirt, while the other is underneath for safety. In my experience, cars without skid plates often suffer from scratched undercarriages, leading to high repair costs, while fenders can reduce car washing frequency by half. If you frequently drive in urban or suburban areas, both are worth installing—plastic fenders are economical, while aluminum skid plates are sturdy. Remember to check them regularly to ensure screws aren’t loose, and align them properly during installation.
