Loss of shine of paintwork and the appearance of the first foci of corrosion on the doorsteps is a frequent problem of SUV owners, especially in harsh winter conditions. Skoda Kodiaq, despite its robustness, is not immune from the aggressive effects of reagents and gravel flying from under the wheels. This is where the stage comes in. mud flaps A simple but critical element of passive vehicle protection.
Many car owners mistakenly believe that regular body elements cope with the task, however, standard plastic linings often prove to be insufficiently effective against a high flow of dirt. Quality mud flaps create a physical barrier, redirecting the mud stream down, which preserves the cleanliness of the doors, arches and bottom. Properly selected accessories not only prolong life Skoda KodiaqThey also support their product form during subsequent resale.
Why dirt protection is critical for crossover
Owners Skoda Kodiaq Often operate their car not only in the city, but also on dirt roads, as well as in slush conditions. Without additional protection, the front and rear wheels act as powerful centrifugal pumps, splashing a mixture of water, sand and chemicals.
This abrasive cocktail hits the paint directly, causing micro-scratches that eventually turn into rust foci. Corrosion The main enemy of metal, and to fight it after the appearance is much more difficult and expensive than to prevent.
Installation mud flaps reduces the load on the body cleaning system. You will need to wash your car less often, as the main risk areas will be protected. This is especially true for the bottom of doors and arches, where the accumulation of dirt leads to accelerated wear.
Original accessories against analogues
When choosing protection, you face a dilemma: purchase certified accessories from the manufacturer or save money by choosing a new one. universal analogues. Original mud flaps for Skoda Kodiaq developed taking into account the geometry of the body of a particular model and the year of release.
The main advantage of the original is the perfect landing. Fixing holes coincide with factory, which eliminates the need to drill additional holes in the body. This preserves the factory anti-corrosion treatment and the tightness of the elements. In addition, the shape of the original elements is designed for aerodynamics, so as not to create unnecessary noise on the track.
However, versatile or quality third-party brands can offer a wider selection of materials. Some manufacturers use some thermoplastic It is a high strength, which better extinguishes the impact of stones than standard factory plastic. It is important to carefully review reviews and specifications before buying.
- โ Original: Perfect geometry, native mounting points, compatibility guarantee.
- โ High-quality analogue: Often more flexible material, affordable price, wide range.
- โ Cheap analogueInappropriate holes, fragile plastic, risk of distortion and noise.
Manufacturing materials: what to choose for harsh conditions
Material from which it is made mudguardIt determines its durability and ability to withstand temperature changes. In Russian realities, plastic must remain elastic even at -30ยฐC, otherwise it will burst from the impact of the first snow pile.
The most common material is polypropylene. It has excellent resistance to chemical reagents and mechanical effects. High-quality polypropylene does not become fragile in the cold, which is critical for winter operation. Cheap analogues are often made from hard plastic that cracks at low temperatures.
Some manufacturers offer products from rubber Or rubber-like mixtures. This protection is as flexible as possible and can โswallowโ small stones, but it can look less aesthetically pleasing and eventually stretch under its own weight. Skoda Kodiaq It looks stylish, so the appearance of accessories plays an important role.
When choosing, pay attention to the presence of reinforcing inserts. They give the structure rigidity, not allowing the mud flap to dangle at speed, but retain flexibility in the places of bending. Multilayer structure It is often found in premium protection kits.
- โ๏ธ Frost resistanceCheck to what temperature the material retains elasticity.
- ๐ก๏ธ Chemical resistancePlastic should not be corroded by reagents and salt.
- ๐จ Impact resistanceAbility to withstand the impact of gravel without cracking.
Types of fastening and features of installation
The installation process depends on the type of attachment provided by the accessory manufacturer. Most of the quality squirrels for Skoda Kodiaq use regular holes located in the arches of the wheels. This is the most reliable and safe method that does not violate the integrity of the body.
In some cases, additional clips or screws are required. It is important not to overdo it and not tighten the fastener too much so as not to deform the plastic lining or arch. If the holes don't match, Do not expand them under any circumstances. If not necessary, it can lead to a bad landing.
Universal mud flaps often require drilling or the use of bilateral tape. Drilling is an extreme measure, as it violates the factory protection of the metal. Scotch over time can peel off under the influence of dirt and moisture, which will lead to the loss of the element on the go. Safe installation It's always preferred.
โ ๏ธ Attention: Before starting installation, be sure to clean the mounting area of dirt and degrease the surface. Otherwise, the fastener may not hold, or the dirt will fall under the plastic, starting to scratch the body from the inside.
- Standard holes
- Clips and screws
- Scotch and Velcro.
- I don't want to drill and fix.
For self-installation, you will need a minimum set of tools: a screwdriver (cross), a 10 mm key (if you need nuts) and possibly tweezers to extract old clips. The work does not require special skills, but requires care and accuracy.
Pay special attention to the back of the car. Skoda Kodiaq has a complex bumper shape, and the mud flaps should fit tightly to its contours. If there is a gap between the plastic and the body, there will be stuffed snow and dirt, which will negate all the benefits of the installation.
- ๐ง ToolsScrewdriver, keys, degreaser, rag.
- ๐ Preparation: Washing arches, removing old dirt and rust.
- ๐ฉ Fixation: Careful tightening of the fastener without distortion.
Step-by-step installation instructions
Installing mudguards on Skoda Kodiaq It takes about 30-40 minutes per set. Start by preparing the car: make sure it stands on a flat surface and the wheels are turned to the side for easy access to the arches.
First, remove the old items if they were. Use a screwdriver to gently tamper with and pull out staff clips. If the clips are broken, they need to be replaced with new ones, which usually come complete with new mud flaps.
Try a new one mudguard without attachment to make sure that all the holes match. If all is correct, start to screw it, starting from the top points, gradually descending down. This will ensure the correct geometry of the installation.
โ๏ธ Spray-spray installation
After installing all four elements, check the reliability of the mounting by slightly pulling each mud flap. Make sure they donโt dangle or rub against the wheel when turning the steering wheel. Test drive At low speed, it will help to detect possible vibrations or extraneous noises.
If you use screws, it is recommended to put rubber washers under them. This will prevent the vibration from being transmitted to the plastic and reduce the risk of cracking around the holes over time. Also, the rubber washer protects the metal from corrosion at the place of attachment.
โ ๏ธ AttentionWhen screwing screws, make sure that you do not damage the paint coating of the arch. The sharp edges of the screw can become a source of new rust if protective washers are not used.
What to do if the holes don't match?
If the holes donโt match, donโt try to drill them yourself if youโre not sure about your skills. It is better to return the mud flaps to the seller and ask for a replacement with a model with a perfect fit or contact a service center for professional installation.
Spray care and extension of service life
Even the most durable mud flaps require care. Regular car washing is not only aesthetics, but also a way to extend the life of protective elements. Mud stuffed between the mud flap and the body can trap moisture and cause corrosion of the metal under the plastic.
It is especially important to clean the interior of the arches in winter. The salt and reagents that accumulate there are aggressive to the metal. Use it. power-spout When washing, to wash dirt from hard-to-reach places. Check the condition of the mount after each winter.
If mud flaps are made of plastic, avoid using hard brushes or abrasives when cleaning them. This can leave micro-scratches in which dirt will accumulate, making them more noticeable. A soft sponge and special chemistry for plastic are the perfect choice.
In case of damage or crack, do not rush to change the entire set. Often, only one element can be replaced if it is damaged. However, if the plastic has become brittle and crumbles, it is a signal that the material has served its life and needs to be replaced. Timely replacement It'll keep the body clean.
- ๐ฟ Regular washingRemove dirt from under the mud flaps at least once a month.
- ๐ Visual inspectionCheck the mounting and integrity of the plastic after winter.
- ๐งผ The right chemistryUse products that do not destroy the structure of the plastic.
Comparison table of popular options
To help you with your choice, we have compiled a table comparing the main characteristics of different types of mud flaps for the Skoda Kodiaq. Pay attention to the material and type of attachment.
| Spray-machine type | Material | Mounting type | Service life | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Original (Skoda) | Thermoplastic | Standard holes | 5+ years | High |
| Premium analogue | Reinforced plastic | Clips + self-tapping | 3-5 years | Average |
| Budget analogue | Hard plastic | Self-tapping screws | 1-2 years | Low |
| Rubber | Rubber/EPDM | Chomute/Self-rears | 2-4 years | Average |
Original mud flaps are the best choice for those who appreciate perfect fit and durability, but quality counterparts can offer the best value for money and flexibility of the material.
Choice mud flaps This is an investment in the safety of your car. Do not save on elements that directly affect the condition of the body. Quality protection will save you money in the future by eliminating the need for expensive repairs and paint.
Remember that proper care and timely replacement of worn items ensure that your Skoda Kodiaq It will look great even after years of operation in difficult conditions. High-quality spray installation reduces the risk of corrosion of the bottom by 40%This is confirmed by the data of the car service.
Do not postpone the installation for later, especially if the rainy season or snow slush is approaching. The protection must be ready to go before the first weather tests begin. Your car will thank you in the form of clean bodywork and preserved metal.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Do I need to drill holes to install mud flaps on the Skoda Kodiaq?
In most cases, for original or high-quality analogues, drilling is not necessary. They shall be fixed in the normal openings provided for by the design of the body. Drilling is only required for cheap all-purpose models, which is not recommended without an emergency.
Which mud flaps are better: rubber or plastic?
For Skoda Kodiaq Plastic splashes made of high-quality thermoplastic are more often recommended, since they better retain their shape and appearance. Rubber options are more flexible, but can stretch over time and look worse on the crossover.
Can I install the squirrels on my own?
Yes, installation does not require special skills. It is enough to have a screwdriver and a little time. The main thing is to carefully remove old elements (if any) and correctly fix new ones without dragging the fastener.
How long do you have a Skoda Kodiaq?
The service life depends on the quality of the material and operating conditions. Original and high-quality plastic mud flaps can last 5 years or more. Budget counterparts often require replacement after 1-2 years due to loss of elasticity or cracking.
Do mud flaps affect fuel consumption?
They're practically non-existent. Modern mud flaps for Skoda Kodiaq They are designed with aerodynamics in mind and do not create significant air resistance. The effect on fuel consumption is so minimal that it is impossible to notice it during normal driving.