What is the plastic above the car tire called?
3 Answers
The plastic above the car tire is called the fender. The fender is the outer body panel that covers the wheel. Based on the installation position, it is divided into the front fender and the rear fender. The front fender is installed at the front wheel and must ensure the extreme space when the front wheel rotates and jumps. Therefore, designers will use the wheel jump diagram to verify whether the design size of the fender is appropriate according to the selected tire model size. The function of the fender is to prevent sand, stones, and mud splashed by the wheels from splashing to the bottom of the car during driving. Therefore, the materials used are required to have weather resistance, aging resistance, and good formability. Some car front fenders are made of certain elastic plastic materials. Plastic materials have cushioning properties and are relatively safe.
As a car enthusiast who has been playing with cars for over a decade, I'm very familiar with the plastic covers on car tires, known as wheel hub covers or hubcaps, which are mainly made of plastic but can also be made of other materials. Their role is significant—they not only enhance the appearance of the wheels, making the tire area look neater and more upscale, but also protect the steel rims inside from scratches, rust, or impacts from gravel. For example, my old car lost its covers several times, so I went to the parts store to buy new ones. Installing them is simple, as they snap into place with clips. For maintenance, I regularly check if they are loose, especially after washing the car or going on long trips, because loose covers can fly off at high speeds, which is very dangerous. Additionally, plastic covers tend to accumulate dirt, so I use mild cleaners to wipe them down and keep them clean. When choosing new covers, pay attention to matching the size and color, and avoid low-quality plastic, as it can be brittle. In short, although this small part may seem insignificant, its role is quite crucial.
I've been driving for over a decade. The plastic part on the tires is usually called a hubcap, which is essentially a plastic cover over the wheel to enhance the vehicle's appearance. From my experience, it's quite practical, especially in urban parking where curb scrapes are common. The cover acts as a buffer to protect the steel rim, extending its lifespan. Last time I parked, the hubcap cracked, and I got it replaced at a repair shop for just a few dozen bucks—quick and cost-effective. For daily maintenance, I simply wipe it with a damp cloth, avoiding high-pressure water sprays to prevent damage to the clips. I recommend checking the clips every three months to ensure they're intact; if loose, press them tight or replace them to avoid the hubcap flying off and causing harm to people or other vehicles. This design is common in mid-to-low-end new cars, while high-end models might use alloy wheels. When choosing a hubcap, opt for OEM-style ones that match the color for a cohesive look.
