What is the mudguard assembly for the left front wheel of the car?
The mudguard assembly for the left front wheel of the car is officially known as the "front wheel cover liner" (also called fender liner, inner wheel cover, or mudguard liner). It is installed above and behind the left front wheel and is a curved plastic or rubber plate that is closely attached to the inner side of the wheel arch. Its main functions are to prevent water from splashing in, protect the wheel from being hit by stones, and reduce tire noise.
Main function
Washing water and gravel barrier: Prevents the direct impact of mud, rain, and stones kicked up by the wheels on the car's paint surface, chassis, and mechanical components, reducing scratches and rust.
Noise reduction: Isolates the noise generated by the friction between the tires and the road surface, reducing the transmission into the cockpit.
Protecting the cabin: Prevents water and mud from splashing into the engine compartment or passenger cabin, keeping the interior clean.
Common materials
Engineering plastics (PP/TPE): Lightweight and with good weather resistance, it is the most common material used by the original manufacturer.
High-quality rubber: Good flexibility, impact resistance, and does not crack easily at low temperatures, commonly seen in aftermarket accessories.
Notes for Attention
If the lining is damaged, the mud, water and gravel will directly hit the inner side of the fender paint surface. The cost of later repair is often higher than the cost of replacing the lining itself. It is recommended to replace it in time.
Some car owners may install exposed "guard plates" (about 5 centimeters protruding from the vehicle body), although they can enhance protection, they will slightly reduce the chassis height, increase wind resistance and tire noise. It is not necessary when driving on highways or urban paved roads.
The main function of the left front wheel mudguard assembly is to prevent the mud, water and sand thrown up by the wheel from hitting the body paint, chassis components and surrounding people. Specifically, its core functions are as follows:
Protect the body and paint surface: During driving, the tires will roll up mud, sand and small stones. The mudguard can keep these things outside the vehicle body, preventing mud from adhering and being difficult to clean, and avoiding small stones chipping off the paint or creating dents.
Prevent rusting of components: It can reduce the splashing of mud onto the tie rods, ball joints and other chassis mechanical structures, reducing the risk of these metal components rusting prematurely.
Maintain cleanliness and safety: In rainy weather, it can significantly reduce the splashing of mud on the vehicle side, and also avoid splashing of water from the wheel to passengers getting on or off the vehicle; at the same time, it can reduce the probability of stones carried by the tires being thrown out and injuring vehicles behind or pedestrians.
However, there are also some costs for installing it. For example, it will slightly reduce the chassis height, increase a little wind resistance and tire noise. If you often drive on urban paved roads, not installing it is not a big problem; if you often drive on muddy roads, sandy roads or non-paved roads, installing it will be more convenient.
When the left front wheel mudguard assembly fails, first determine the extent of the damage and then decide whether to repair or replace. Minor cracks or loosening can be handled by oneself, while severe fractures or deformations should be replaced directly.
First determine the type of fault
Minor cracks/scratches: Use automotive-specific plastic glue, epoxy resin or hot melt glue for bonding, and let it cure for more than 24 hours.
Screw loosening/loss: Tighten the original screws, or replace them with expansion screws if lost. A few dollars worth of glue can be bought online and one can install it by oneself.
Severe fractures/deformations: Replace it directly. Don't try to repair it hard, as it will be more dangerous if it falls off while driving.
Self-help steps
Prepare tools: Screwdriver, wrench, new mudguard (make sure it is compatible with the vehicle model, the size of CRV and Corolla is different).
Remove the old part: Push the wheel out to facilitate operation, and pay attention to preserving the clips when removing the screws.
Clean the installation position: Clean the bottom of the new part of dirt and debris before installation, otherwise it will affect the fit.
Install the new part: Align the holes, and tighten the screws diagonally in a counterclockwise order. A torque of 5-7 Newton-meters is enough, don't over-tighten.
Special reminder
If the left front wheel not only has a mudguard problem but also makes abnormal noises, leaks oil or vibrates, don't just focus on the mudguard. It could be a problem with the shock absorber leaking oil, the bearings wearing out, or the half-shaft. It is recommended to have the car lifted up at a repair shop for a comprehensive inspection.
When not to do it yourself
If you can't handle it, don't have the wrong tools, or there are other damaged components near the mudguard installation position, go directly to a professional repair shop or 4S store. If you don't install it properly and drive at high speed, the car might fall and cause injury to yourself or the vehicle behind.
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