What are the disadvantages of chassis armor for a car?
2 Answers
Chassis armor does not harm the car. Here are the relevant details: 1. Chassis armor: It involves spraying a layer of rubber-based material, essentially a protective film, onto the chassis. A chemical substance, typically 2~4mm thick, is applied to the entire underside of the vehicle. Once hardened, it forms a protective layer like armor for the car's chassis. 2. Advantages: Prevents scratches and impacts from gravel. For example, when driving on gravel roads, the vehicle can easily kick up stones, and chassis armor helps reduce the impact of these stones on the chassis. It also provides anti-corrosion and anti-rust protection, preventing the chassis from corroding and weakening its structural integrity, thereby extending the chassis's lifespan. Additionally, it reduces noise and minimizes chassis resonance, enhancing comfort for passengers inside the vehicle.
As a veteran driver with 20 years of experience, I deeply understand the troubles of adding underbody armor. The most noticeable issue is the increased weight. After installation, the car becomes heavier, requiring the engine to work harder, which leads to higher fuel consumption. My old car, after adding a thick coating, lost about one kilometer per liter in city driving, and the effect was even more pronounced on long trips, costing me hundreds more in fuel annually. The added weight also affects the suspension system, increasing the burden, accelerating tire wear, and raising repair costs. If the coating is of poor quality or not properly sealed during installation, moisture can seep into the gaps, ironically speeding up rust and corrosion. Over time, the underbody condition worsens. For everyday driving, lightweight is the way to go—don’t blindly follow the trend of adding armor unless you’re in a severely corrosive coastal or snowy area. Regularly washing the underbody is more practical than armor, saving both money and hassle.
