What is the board on the car tire called?

[DeKatherine]

The protective board above the tire is called a mudguard, primarily serving to block mud and dust. It is usually installed behind the four tires of the car, with the front two fixed on the left and right lower sills, and the rear two fixed on the rear bumper. The entire mudguard consists of two parts: the outer hard ring is the wheel arch, commonly black in color, and the inner soft layer is the liner board. The mudguard is composed of the wheel arch and the liner board. Functions of the mudguard: 1. Prevent mud from splashing onto the car body or people, which could make them look unattractive. 2. While driving, it can block gravel and mud splashed up by the wheels. 3. Enhance the overall aesthetics of the car body. 4. Reduce the drag coefficient, making driving more stable.

[OCarlos]

That small round plate on the tire is called a wheel hub cover, also known as a wheel cap or center cap. It snaps onto the central part of the wheel, mainly covering the hub center and bolts to make the entire wheel look neater and more aesthetically pleasing. I find this thing quite practical—without it, the wheel looks bare when driving, and sand or rainwater can get in, potentially corroding the hub components and shortening their lifespan. Last time, one fell off my old car, and I bought a plastic replacement online for 20 bucks. Installation was super easy—just snap it into place. I recommend car owners check for looseness during regular car washes and tighten it to avoid losing it, which can also save some repair costs. Different car models have different cover designs: ordinary family sedans usually use durable and affordable plastic ones, while sportier cars might have alloy covers for a shinier look. If you lose one, don’t panic—just make sure to measure the size accurately when buying a new one.

[JustinDella]

That piece on the tire you mentioned, we veteran drivers call it the hubcap. It covers the center of the wheel, hiding those ugly bolts to prevent rust and debris from getting into the axle. After decades of driving, I've seen plenty - it's a small part but quite crucial. When I drove beaters in my youth, hubcaps often went missing. Now during every maintenance, I ask the mechanic to tighten them up. They come in plastic and metal - plastic ones are lightweight but fragile, while metal ones are sturdier but pricier. Losing one isn't catastrophic, but prolonged exposure can cause wheel oxidation, leading to costly repairs later. I recommend learning to replace them yourself - just search online for your car model to buy matching ones for about ten bucks, no need to overspend. When driving, avoid hitting curbs, and during maintenance, simply wipe them clean with a damp cloth.

[StevenRose]

The wheel hub cap, that small round plate at the center of the tire, car enthusiasts all understand its charm. It enhances the overall appearance of the vehicle, covering the core details of the hub for a smoother look. When I modify cars, I love customizing personalized caps, from ordinary plastic to cool alloy materials—choosing the right style can completely change the wheel's vibe. Installation is super easy, just snap it on, but remember to check the tightness regularly to avoid losing it. Without it, the wheel looks rough and can affect safety. It's recommended to reinforce the clips during quarterly cleanings to ensure durability. Replacement isn't expensive; just visit an auto parts store to find the right model and size.