Does Severe Rusting of Side Skirts Have a Significant Impact on the Car?

[SimonLynn]

The impact is considerable. Rust on the car's side skirts affects the vehicle's aesthetics and its resale value. Once sturdy steel corrodes, its strength significantly diminishes, reducing defensive performance in the event of a traffic accident. Below is relevant information about car side skirts: 1. Function: Car side skirts are part of the body's aerodynamic kit, enhancing not only appearance but also, when properly installed, reducing reverse airflow generated during driving. At high speeds, it creates a ground effect, greatly improving handling stability. 2. Prevention of Side Skirt Rust: To prevent rust on car side skirts, park the vehicle indoors as much as possible, ensuring it is kept in a dry environment, especially during long-term parking. After rain, snow, or driving through muddy or waterlogged roads, sludge can accumulate in gaps under the body and on the floor inside the car, so timely cleaning is essential. After washing the car, drive a bit longer to allow wind to dry the moisture in the gaps before parking. Regularly inspect the car body, and promptly address any small rust spots at a professional auto detailing shop.

[StRicardo]

This is really not something to take lightly! Last time I helped my old neighbor inspect his decade-old used car, my finger poked right through a hole when I touched the corner of the side skirt. The side skirt may seem insignificant, but it connects to the chassis rails and rocker panels. Rust holes are like termites hollowing out a house's load-bearing walls. Not only does it drastically reduce the chassis rigidity, but the energy absorption zone becomes completely useless in a side collision. The critical issue is that rust holes allow dirt and debris to seep into the sandwich layer. Repairing it requires cutting out the rusted sections and re-welding steel plates, which costs at least 5,000 RMB. I suggest addressing any bulges immediately—once holes appear, it's too late.

[JohnAnn]

Last time driving through a puddle on a rainy day, my co-pilot girlfriend suddenly screamed that her ankles felt cold. Looking down, we found the carpet completely soaked. Towed to the repair shop, after dismantling, we saw a rusted hole in the side skirt directly facing the air conditioning intake. The mechanic said this rust hole acted like a funnel, splashing muddy water all over the electrical components under the chassis during rain. Even scarier, the water-soaked wiring harness caused the power steering module to burn out, costing over 3,000 more for replacement parts. Now, every time I wash the car, I lift the floor mats to check the side skirt lining. If it feels soft, I apply anti-rust wax. These hidden body issues are more troublesome than engine failures, as they concern the safety of the whole family.

[VanKiara]

Just got my hands on a modified car, only to be defeated by rusted side skirts. Initially, I was too focused on checking the headlights and suspension. But once it was up on the lift, I found the side skirts so rusted and cracked that you could slide a credit card through. The tuning shop owner shook his head: installing widebody kits requires drilling holes here for mounting, but the rust-eaten side skirts can't handle the stress. To fix it, we had to cut out a 30cm steel plate and re-weld it, costing 4,700 for panel beating and rustproofing. The widebody kit also needed custom brackets. A word to fellow modders: when buying an old car, bring a magnet to check the side skirts. If the magnet sticks but the metal feels soft, walk away without looking back.