Is it necessary to install mud flaps on the chassis?
3 Answers
It is necessary to install mud flaps on the chassis, as they can protect the car's paint. Mud Flaps: Mud flaps are plate-like structures installed behind the outer frame of the wheels, usually made of high-quality rubber or engineering plastic. They are typically mounted behind the wheels of bicycles or motor vehicles and can be made of metal, leather, plastic, or rubber. Function: As the name suggests, mud flaps are designed to block mud. They are installed behind the four tires of a car. The front two are fixed on the lower sills, while the rear two are fixed on the rear bumper. In fact, if purchased from a 4S store, installation is usually included. Those bought from the market or online come with installation instructions. After installation, the mud flaps extend about 5cm beyond the body of the car. This 5cm plays a crucial role in effectively preventing flying stones and gravel from damaging the car's paint.
I believe that installing mud flaps is absolutely necessary, especially for experienced drivers like myself. The primary function of mud flaps is to protect the undercarriage from damage caused by mud, water, stones, and debris. When driving in rainy conditions or on rural roads, they can reduce splashing, which helps prevent rust and corrosion on the undercarriage, thereby extending the overall lifespan of the vehicle. Mud flaps are typically made of plastic or rubber, are affordable (costing just a few dozen yuan), and are easy to install without requiring professional assistance. After installing mud flaps on my own car, I’ve noticed a significant reduction in the frequency of car washes, as the undercarriage stays cleaner. They also provide a slight improvement in safety on wet or slippery roads by minimizing water spray that could affect pedestrians or the side of the vehicle. If you often drive on unpaved, gravelly, or muddy roads rather than smooth urban roads, mud flaps are a small investment with substantial returns, saving you considerable maintenance costs in the long run.
I often commute by car and find installing mud flaps quite worthwhile. They prevent mud and water from splashing onto the chassis, avoiding rust and corrosion, and protecting the car's components from damage. From daily use, I've noticed significantly fewer stains on both sides of the car after installing mud flaps, cutting my car washes in half—saving both money and time. The cost isn't high; plastic mud flaps are affordable and can even be installed DIY. In the long run, they help avoid unexpected repairs, like electrical faults caused by rainwater or rusted-through chassis. They prove even more useful during wet seasons or on poor road conditions, keeping the car clean and giving peace of mind while driving. I consider this a basic yet highly effective modification for maintaining car health—effortless but with noticeable benefits.
