What is the name of the semi-circular black plastic above the tire?
2 Answers
The semi-circular black plastic above the tire is called the car wheel arch. It refers to the chrome-plated bright strip along the upper edge of the tire, which is a semi-circular component protruding from the fender above the car tire. It is composed of 1/2 steel plate and 1/2 plastic, and this applies to both front and rear wheels. Below are the functions of the wheel arch: 1. Protect the car paint: It prevents rainwater and gravel from being splashed onto the car body by the wheels during rainy days, thus protecting the car paint. Generally, the wheel arches of factory cars are slightly wider than the tires. Of course, modified cars are an exception, as they usually install wheels that align perfectly with the wheel arches (fenders) for aesthetic purposes. 2. Meet the personalized needs of drivers: It is mainly equipped for decorative purposes and to fulfill the personalized needs of drivers.
Last time I had my car repaired, I learned that the semi-circular black plastic part above the tire is called the wheel arch liner. Its function is to protect some sensitive parts of the car's chassis, preventing mud, water, and small stones from splashing in and damaging the braking system. Because it's located inside the wheel arch and often exposed to the elements, it's particularly prone to accumulating dust or even cracking. If not cleaned or replaced in time, it may cause strange noises or more serious rust issues. For car owners like me, regularly checking its condition is important, especially after long trips—a simple wipe with a damp cloth can extend its lifespan. Additionally, designs may vary between different car brands and models; some are thicker and more durable, while others are relatively fragile. Replacing it isn't expensive, costing around 100 to 200 yuan. If you're doing it yourself, be careful not to use a high-pressure water jet directly, as the strong impact could damage the fixing clips.
