Are Splash Guards Necessary?
Splash guards, also known as mud flaps, are not always a requirement, but they can be a highly valuable accessory depending on your vehicle and driving conditions. For compact or mid-size SUVs and trucks, they provide crucial protection by preventing dirt, gravel, and road debris from being kicked up onto sensitive parts of your vehicle.
In addition to safeguarding the undercarriage and mechanical components, splash guards protect the paint and finish of your car's body side panels, helping to reduce damage and maintain the vehicle's appearance. While not mandatory, splash guards are a practical investment, especially if you frequently drive on dirt or gravel roads, or in wet, muddy, or snowy conditions.
Do Splash Guards Work?
Yes, splash guards are effective at preventing road debris, water, and mud from being thrown up onto your vehicle. They work by forming a barrier behind the tires, reducing the amount of dirt and gravel that reaches the body, paint, and sensitive components of your car. This protection helps minimize wear and tear, keeping your vehicle cleaner and reducing the need for frequent maintenance. For drivers on rough or unpaved roads, splash guards offer even more value by shielding the vehicle’s undercarriage from damage.
Springtime Driving and Mud Flaps
As spring rolls around, many of us are ready for outdoor adventures, including hiking through muddy fields. If you’re preparing your vehicle for these conditions, you may wonder:
Are Mud Flaps Worth It?
Yes, mud flaps are worth it for most drivers, especially those who want to protect their vehicle from dirt, debris, and potential damage. Mud flaps, also known as splash guards or mud guards, are attached behind your vehicle’s tires to prevent gravel, water, and mud from splashing onto your car. Whether they are essential for you depends on your vehicle type, where you live, and your driving habits.
Here are a few key benefits of installing mud flaps:
- Protection for Paint: They protect your car's paint from being chipped or damaged.
- Shielding Vulnerable Parts: Mud flaps keep dirt and grime away from parts of your car that are prone to wear.
- Protecting Pedestrians: They prevent gravel and other debris from hitting pedestrians.
- Keeping Your Car Cleaner: Less dirt means fewer car washes.
Why Larger Vehicles Need Mud Flaps
Cars with larger tires or deeper treads, like SUVs and trucks, tend to kick up more dirt. That’s why truck mud flaps are more common than car splash guards.
Are Splash Guards Expensive?
Compared to other car accessories, splash guards are affordable. A set of four OEM 2020 Honda Pilot splash guards costs less than $25 per wheel. Considering their protection and the potential savings on repairs and car washes, the investment is worthwhile.
Questions to Help Decide If Splash Guards Are Worth It
Still undecided? Ask yourself the following:
- Do I drive on gravel or dirt roads?
- Does dirt get into the engine or cabin through the fender wells?
- Do splash guards improve the look of my vehicle?
- Is paint repair costly for my vehicle?
- Are car washes too expensive or inconvenient?
- Do I live in a snowy or rainy climate?
If you answered “yes” to any of these, splash guards might be the right investment for your vehicle.
Finding the Right Splash Guards for Your Honda
Not sure which splash guards to buy for your Honda? We carry mud flaps for all models. If you're having trouble finding the right accessory, reach out to our team of experts for assistance.
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