Which Kind of Sill Plate Won't Damage the Car?
2 Answers
Carbon fiber sill plates won't damage the car paint. Here's an introduction to sill plates: Introduction to Sill Plates: Sill plates, also known as welcome pedals, are installed right below the car door. Since shoes often come into contact with this area when entering or exiting the vehicle, installing sill plates can prevent scratches and enhance aesthetics. Some high-end cars come with stainless steel sill plates that include lighting. The Function of Sill Plates: If installed properly, sill plates won't cause any harm to the vehicle. Instead, they protect areas prone to wear and tear. Without sill plates, prolonged use can lead to scratches on the car's paint, which sill plates effectively prevent. Drawbacks of Sill Plates: While sill plates offer benefits, they also have some downsides, particularly for aftermarket installations. Most sill plates are attached with strong adhesive, which may loosen over time and cause the plates to fall off. Additionally, if the owner decides to remove the sill plates, stubborn residue may remain, affecting the car's appearance.
I've used many kinds of door sill protectors on my previous car, and the most hassle-free ones were those high-quality soft PVC models with 3M adhesive backing. You just peel off the adhesive and stick it directly onto the original door sill—no drilling required at all. The key is to clean the installation area thoroughly with alcohol beforehand, then press firmly for a few minutes after application to ensure it sticks properly. Mine stayed put for three years without falling off, and left no adhesive residue when removed. But never cheap out and buy products with inferior adhesive—those start peeling at the edges within two months, and might even pull off the car's paint when removed. My neighbor's car suffered this exact damage and had to spend hundreds on touch-up paint later.
