Can the car still be driven if the mudguard falls off?
3 Answers
Yes, the car can still be driven if the mudguard falls off. You just need to go to an auto repair shop to replace it. The mudguard can effectively protect the car body and prevent scratches. As the name suggests, the car mudguard is used to block mud. It is installed behind the four tires of the car. The front two are fixed on the left and right lower sills, and the rear two are fixed on the rear bumper (this is the case for most models). Below is a detailed introduction to car mudguards: 1. Function: The function of the car mudguard is to block mud. Generally, in rainy weather, especially on muddy roads, there will be a lot of mud on the car tires, which sometimes gets on the car body. When the car is equipped with mudguards, it can help the car block mud and sand. 2. Material: The mudguard is a plate structure installed behind the outer frame of the wheel, usually made of high-quality rubber, and some are made of engineering plastic. 3. Installation effect: The mudguard is usually installed behind the car wheels as a metal shield, leather shield, plastic shield, or rubber shield. After installation, the mudguard protrudes about 5cm from the car body, effectively preventing flying stones and gravel from damaging the car's paint surface.
As a frequent driver, I think the car is still drivable, but you need to be careful. The missing fender won't affect the engine or tire operation, and it's fine for short trips in the short term, such as going to a nearby supermarket or repair shop. However, there are several risks: The fender's function is to prevent rainwater and mud from splashing into the car's interior. Without it, water spray during rainy days may directly splash into the wheel arch area, causing brake disc rust or electrical short circuits, and potentially damaging the suspension system over time. Especially on slippery roads at high speeds, the rearview mirror can become blurred, reducing visibility and increasing the risk of rear-end collisions. Some places have traffic regulations requiring fenders to be installed, and fines may apply otherwise, so it's best to drive to a professional auto repair shop for a replacement as soon as possible. Don't delay, as accumulated dirt can make repairs more troublesome later. Regular maintenance checks on the fender's mounting screws can prevent sudden detachment.
I've only been driving for two or three years, and this situation really worries me. The fender fell off, but the car can still start, and there are no issues with acceleration or braking—it should be fine for short trips around the neighborhood. However, there are significant safety risks: without the fender, road dust and water can directly spray onto the undercarriage, potentially causing corrosion or dirtying the brakes. Driving short distances on sunny days might be okay, but once it rains, mud and water could splash everywhere, obstructing the view of drivers behind you and possibly leading to disputes. Personally, I wouldn’t recommend driving for long periods, especially on highways—the risks are too high. It’s best to visit a trusted mechanic to get a new fender installed; it’s neither expensive nor time-consuming. Also, try to avoid parking on gravel roads to minimize damage in the future.
