What to Do When the Plastic Skirt Under the Car Is Scratched?
3 Answers
Vehicle side skirts are part of the body covering and do not affect the body structure. If the damage is not severe, usually just a touch-up paint is needed. If the plastic skirt is cracked or broken, you can replace the entire side skirt. The price of plastic skirts is relatively inexpensive. When performing touch-up paint, make sure to cover other parts with newspaper, exposing only the scratched area. Pay attention to the distance to prevent overspray onto other parts. The purpose of the side skirt under the car is to protect metal components from splashes and scratches. Minor scratches can be left untreated for the time being.
It's quite common for the plastic underbody skirts to get scratched. I just helped a neighbor fix a similar issue. You can start by checking the depth of the scratches. If it's just surface scratches, you can restore them with plastic repair paste or by gently heating with a heat gun—it's simple and cost-effective to do it yourself. However, if it's cracked or deformed, it's best to remove and replace the part, as the plastic skirt protects the chassis from corrosion and reduces wind resistance. If it's loose, it may detach while driving, which is unsafe. Drive slowly over bumps and check ground clearance before parking to avoid damage. Minor scratches don’t affect performance and can be left as-is, but serious damage should be addressed early at a professional shop—it won’t cost much, and safety comes first. Avoid using strong adhesives haphazardly, as they can worsen the damage. Consult someone knowledgeable if unsure.
I've experienced scratches on the car's side skirts before, and I was worried whether it would affect driving safety. Those plastic side skirts are mainly for dirt protection and decoration, so minor scratches aren't a big deal—just rinse with water and dry them. However, if they're stuck or have cracks, don't ignore it. Poor fixation can expose the chassis, and accumulated water during rain can lead to rust. When driving safely, if you hear unusual noises, check immediately. You can try tightening bolts and cleaning it yourself, but don't force it. It's better to visit a 4S shop or repair station for a professional inspection—they can secure it more firmly with tools. Adjust your driving habits—avoid rough roads—and during maintenance, have the side skirts checked as well.
