What is the name of the guard plate above the wheel?
3 Answers
The guard plate above the wheel is called a mudguard. Here is a related introduction to mudguards: 1. Types: Rubber mudguards, which have good aging resistance, are commonly used on the rear of various vehicle wheels; Plastic mudguards, made of plastic, are inexpensive but hard and brittle; Painted mudguards, which are plastic mudguards painted to perfectly match the body color. 2. Function: The main purpose is to prevent mud from splashing onto the body or people, which can make them look unattractive. It also prevents mud from splashing onto the tie rods and ball joints, causing premature rust.
The protective panel above the wheel is called a wheel arch cover or fender liner, and I think its role is quite important. Last time I drove to the outskirts, muddy sections splattered dirt all over the doors, and it was only when a friend pointed it out that I noticed the wheel arch cover was cracked. This hard plastic panel prevents gravel kicked up by the tires from damaging the undercarriage wiring and also reduces driving noise. Enthusiasts who modify their cars often replace it with carbon fiber to reduce weight, though the original factory parts are more resistant to scratches. If you find the panel is loose, it's best to reinforce it promptly, as water leakage during rainy days could cause short circuits in the headlight wiring. City driving makes it easy to scrape against curbs, so it's advisable to check the panel's condition frequently when parking.
That part is called the wheel arch liner. From my experience, it directly affects the quietness inside the car. Previously, when a clip on my car's liner came loose, there was a loud howling noise at high speeds. These liners come in two materials: plastic and felt. Japanese cars commonly use plastic liners which are easy to remove and clean, while German cars often use felt liners for better sound insulation. The mechanic said replacing the liner isn't too complicated and can be done yourself in about half an hour. It's important to note that winter road salt can corrode plastic parts, so it's best to rinse the inside of the wheel arch after snowy days. Nowadays, newer models even have added drainage channels on the inner side of the liner to reduce water mist affecting rearview mirror visibility during rainy weather.
