Operating a car on Russian roads and climate is a constant challenge for the paintwork and metal of the body. Gravel flying from under the wheels of cars in front, aggressive reagents that are sprinkled on the roads in winter, and constant moisture create ideal conditions for the development of corrosion. Wheel arches are one of the most vulnerable areas, since this is where all the road dirt and abrasives first fall. Many homeowners forget about this area until they discover holes or blistering paint.
A modern and effective solution to this problem is plastic wheel arch protection, often called lockers. These products not only block the access of dirt to the metal, but also significantly reduce the noise level in the cabin, making travel more comfortable. Installing such elements is an investment in preserving the residual value of the car and extending the life of its body. In this article we will analyze in detail why this is necessary, what materials exist and how to perform installation correctly.
⚠️ Attention: If your vehicle is under warranty, consult your dealer before installing any non-standard items, including lockers. In some cases, self-installation may be regarded as interference in the body structure.
Why does a car need additional arch protection?
Factory treatment of wheel arches is often insufficient for harsh operating conditions. The standard anticorrosive agent can be applied in a thin layer or absent in places where the metal is bent. Plastic fender liners create a physical barrier that absorbs impacts from small stones and sand. Without such protection, abrasive particles gradually wear away the anti-corrosion coating, exposing the metal and starting the rusting process.
In addition to mechanical protection, lockers perform an important acoustic function. The empty metal arch acts as a resonator, amplifying noise from tire rotation and gravel impacts. Plastic, especially if sound-proofing material is laid between it and the body, dampens these vibrations. Comfort level in the cabin increases noticeably, especially when driving on the highway at high speeds or on gravel roads.
It is also worth mentioning the protection of plastic suspension elements and electrical components. In modern cars, ABS sensors, wiring, and even cooling system elements are often located in the arches. Lockers prevent direct contact of these components with aggressive chemicals and water, reducing the risk of costly breakdowns. This is especially true for car owners with plastic mud flaps, which can quickly become unusable without support.
Materials of manufacture: polyethylene, polypropylene or rubber
The automotive accessories market offers several main types of materials for the production of protection. The most popular option is polyethylene. This is an elastic material that holds its shape perfectly and does not crack even in severe frosts. Polyethylene lockers often have a textured surface that imitates the structure of metal, which gives them an aesthetic appearance.
The second common material is polypropylene. It is stiffer than polyethylene and generally less expensive. However, polypropylene has a significant drawback: it becomes brittle in the cold. If struck strongly by a stone or when attempting to install it in winter, such a locker may burst. Rubber fender liners are less common, mainly on older car models or as universal solutions, since rubber tends to dry out over time.
The secret to plastic's durability
High-quality plastic contains UV stabilizers that prevent color fading and destruction of the material structure under the influence of sunlight. Cheap analogues without additives may lose their properties within a season.
When choosing, you should pay attention to the wall thickness of the product. Thin plastic will rattle on uneven surfaces, transmitting vibrations to the body. High quality locker must be rigid enough to hold its shape, but still have a certain amount of flexibility. The ideal compromise is a mixture of polymers, where the base material is reinforced with additives for strength.
Comparative table of material characteristics
To make it easier for you to make your choice, we have prepared a comparison of the main characteristics of the materials. Please note that properties may vary depending on the specific manufacturer and additives used.
| Characteristics | Polyethylene (PE) | Polypropylene (PP) | Rubber (rubber) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flexibility in cold weather | High | Low (fragile) | Medium (tanks) |
| Impact resistance | High | Average | High |
| Noise insulation | good | Average | Excellent |
| Service life | 5-7 years or more | 3-5 years | 2-4 years |
From the table it is clear that polyethylene wins in most respects, especially in cold climates. Polypropylene is suitable for regions with mild winters or for cars that are rarely used in winter. Rubber today is considered an obsolete option, although it has good damping properties.
Polyethylene lockers are the best choice for most climate zones due to their combination of elasticity and strength.
Preparing for installation: tools and materials
Before proceeding with installation, it is necessary to prepare the workplace and tools. You will need to remove the wheels, so make sure you have a jack and safety stands. Safety when working with a car is priority number one. You will also need basic tools: screwdrivers, screwdriver, wrenches and pliers.
Standard holes are often used to attach lockers, but sometimes drilling of the body is required. In this case, be sure to process the edges of the holes and fasteners. anticorrosive. This will prevent the appearance of pockets of corrosion around the screw heads. Use special metal drills with a diameter that matches the fasteners.
☑️ What you need for installation
Don't forget to clean the arch from dirt and old bitumen mastic if it peels off. The surface must be dry and clean for better adhesion. If you are planning additional sound insulation, prepare vibration-proofing material based on bitumen. It is glued to the metal of the arch before installing the plastic locker.
Step-by-step instructions for installing lockers
The installation process begins with removing the wheel and, in some cases, removing the fender liner or mudguard if they are already installed. Carefully unscrew all visible fasteners. Often the locker is attached at several points: to the mudguard, to the spar and to the wing itself. Procedure may vary depending on the car model, so it is recommended to study the manual or watch the video instructions for your specific brand in advance.
⚠️ Attention: When drilling holes in the body, make sure that there are no electrical harnesses or fuel lines running through the back of the metal. Use a flashlight to visually inspect the inside of the arch.
After trying on the new locker and marking the holes (if drilling is required), treat the metal with anticorrosive. Then install the plastic protection, starting with the top fasteners. Tighten the screws tightly, but without fanaticism, so as not to push through the plastic. If the locker consists of two parts, first assemble them together and then install them on the car.
The final stage is installing the wheels and checking the reliability of the fastening. Drive along an uneven section of the road and listen: there should be no extraneous knocks or squeaks. If the locker touches the wheel or suspension elements at maximum shock absorber travel, it must be trimmed or reinstalled.
Lubricate the threads of the self-tapping screws with lithium grease before tightening - this will prevent them from sticking and make it easy to remove the locker in the future for washing or repairs.
Caring for protection and common mistakes
The installed protection requires minimal maintenance, but you should not forget about it. Every time you wash your car, try to wash the space between the locker and the arch. Dirt and reagents can accumulate there, which, despite the protection, can slowly destroy the metal. Using a pressure washer helps remove stubborn stains.
One of the common mistakes is ignoring the condition of the fasteners. Over time, screws can rust and lose their grip. Check periodically for looseness fender liner. If you notice any play, tighten the fasteners or replace them with higher quality stainless steel ones.
Also, owners often make the mistake of installing lockers “on the dirt.” Installation should only be carried out on a thoroughly washed and degreased body. Dirt trapped under the plastic will act as an abrasive and accelerate corrosion, defeating the whole purpose of installing protection. Quality of preparation surface determines the durability of the result.
What to do if the locker is cracked?
Small cracks in polyethylene lockers can be sealed with a hair dryer or a special soldering iron for plastic. For polypropylene, use epoxy-based repair compounds with reinforcing mesh.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Do I need to remove the wheels to install the protection?
In most cases, removing the wheel is necessary to provide access to the upper mounting points and to safely work in the arched space. Some locker models allow installation without removing the wheel, but this greatly complicates the process.
Can plastic protection cause corrosion?
The protection itself does not cause corrosion. On the contrary, it prevents it. However, if water and dirt get under the locker and ventilation is impaired, moisture may stagnate. It is important to ensure that the drainage holes in the arch are not blocked.
How often should plastic lockers be replaced?
The service life of high-quality polyethylene lockers is 5-7 years or more. Replacement is required only in case of mechanical damage (cracks, chips) or if the plastic has lost its elasticity and began to crumble.
Does installing lockers affect the car's warranty?
Formally, the installation of additional equipment should not affect the warranty if standard elements were not damaged during installation. However, dealers can use this fact to refuse warranty repairs to the body if they prove that corrosion occurred precisely because of improper installation of the protection.