Is it necessary to install mud flaps on a sedan?

[OSimon]

Its main function is to prevent mud from splashing onto the car body or people, which can make the car or people look unattractive. If the tie rod or ball joint rusts prematurely, it can significantly shorten the lifespan of the tie rod. Installing mud flaps requires drilling holes in the car body, and over time, the body may start to rust from these holes. After installing mud flaps, the car's minimum ground clearance will decrease, making the car's passability worse, and it can easily get damaged if not careful. If mud flaps are not installed, regular chassis maintenance is necessary, or you can opt for chassis armor or chassis sealing.

[LaHayden]

I believe installing mud flaps is absolutely necessary. Having driven for so many years, especially in areas with frequent rain and snow, mud flaps effectively prevent mud and gravel from splashing onto the car body. Without them, the sides and undercarriage of the car would be covered in mud stains, which not only look unsightly but also corrode the paint and increase the risk of rust, leading to more expensive repairs later on. I once drove a car without mud flaps up a mountain, and after a rainy day, the car was so dirty that it took twice as long to wash. Moreover, mud flaps reduce the danger of mud splashing onto vehicles behind when driving at high speeds, making it safer for other road users. The installation cost is very low, ranging from a few dozen to a little over a hundred yuan, and in the long run, it saves on car washing expenses. I think it's worth it.

[DiAnderson]

From a cost-saving perspective, mud flaps are also a worthwhile investment. When I was on a tight budget, I researched and found that mud flaps are inexpensive and easy to install yourself. However, if you save this small amount of money and don't install them, mud and water splashing onto the car body can easily damage the paint, requiring more frequent waxing or touch-ups, which adds up to higher costs in the long run. For example, stones flying up and scratching the car door can cost hundreds of yuan to repair once, while mud flaps prevent this. When driving on highways in the rain, they reduce dirt splashing onto the windows, improving visibility and saving on car wash expenses. Of course, in cities where roads are cleaner, the impact of installing them is smaller, but overall, they offer high cost-effectiveness—protecting your car means saving money.

[DeEmmett]

I believe mud flaps are crucial for safety. When driving, tires can kick up mud and water, and without mud flaps, these can hit vehicles or pedestrians behind, potentially causing accidents. On highways during rain, splashed mud can obscure rearview mirrors, impairing visibility. As a driver, it's our responsibility to prevent this. A simple device like mud flaps can significantly reduce such risks, making roads safer for everyone. From the perspective of not speeding, I support their installation. They also prevent our own windows from getting dirty and enhance the sense of driving stability.