Mud flaps for Škoda Rapid 2017: a complete selection and installation guide

Mud flaps are not just a decorative element, but an important part that protects the body Škoda Rapid 2017 from dirt, sand and corrosion. Their installation is especially relevant for Russian roads, where reagents and slush in winter, and dust and gravel in summer, quickly spoil the paintwork. In this article we will look at which mudguards are suitable for Rapid second generation (facelift 2017), how to select and install them correctly, and also reveal the secrets of extending the service life of the body.

Many owners Škoda Rapid are faced with a dilemma: buy original mud flaps from Skoda or save on analogues? We analyzed the market, studied reviews and prepared an honest comparison. You will also learn what installation mistakes lead to squeaks and fallen fasteners, and how to avoid them. If you want to save on service costs and install mudguards yourself, here you will find step-by-step instructions with photos and videos.

Original mud flaps vs analogues: what to choose for the Škoda Rapid 2017?

The first thing the owner faces Rapid when looking for mudguards, it’s a choice between original spare parts and non-original analogues. Original mud flaps from Škoda (article 5E6 805 201/202 for front and 5E6 805 211/212 for the rear) guarantee a perfect fit and durability, but their price is steep: the kit will cost 8–12 thousand rubles. At the same time, analogues from Heko, Polcar or Sideflex They cost 2-3 times cheaper, but do not always match the quality.

The main advantages of original mudguards:

• 🔹 Exact match with body geometry - no gaps or distortions.
• 🔹 Resistant to UV radiation and temperature changes (does not crack in winter).
• 🔹 Manufacturer's warranty (usually 1–2 years).
• 🔹 Preservation of factory appearance (important for those who value aesthetics).

However, analogues have their advantages:

• 💰 Price: set from Heko will cost 3–5 thousand rubles.
• 🎨 More design options (such as mud flaps with logo Škoda or carbon coating).
• 🛠️ Often all the necessary fastenings are included in the kit (sometimes you have to buy them from the original).

⚠️ Attention: Cheap mud flaps from China (for example, with AliExpress) may not fit the fastenings. Before purchasing, check the reviews and ask the seller for photos of fasteners - they must match the original ones (hooks and latches).

If you choose analogues, pay attention to the brands:

• 🏆 Heko - best price/quality ratio, fit almost perfectly.
• 🥈 Polcar - Polish manufacturer, slightly cheaper Heko, but the quality of the plastic is worse.
• 🥉 Sideflex - a budget option, but often requires modification of the fastenings.

Articles and sizes: how not to make a mistake when purchasing?

For Škoda Rapid 2017 (facelift) mudguards differ from the pre-facelift version (2012–2016). Main articles:

Mudguard type	Original article	Analogue (Heko)	Size (L×W), cm
Front left	5E6 805 201	HE-5012	55×30
Front right	5E6 805 202	HE-5013	55×30
Rear left	5E6 805 211	HE-5014	60×35
Rear right	5E6 805 212	HE-5015	60×35

Important: mudguards for Rapid with engines 1.4 TSI and 1.6 MPI identical, but for version Rapid Spaceback (station wagon) rear mudguards other (articles 5E6 805 213/214). Also check if the kit includes:

• 🔧 Mounting clips (usually 4–6 pieces per mudguard).
• 🔧 Self-tapping screws or bolts (for front mudguards they are often needed separately).
• 🔧 Instructions with hole markings (relevant for analogues).

Step-by-step instructions for installing mud flaps on a Škoda Rapid

Install mudguards on Rapid You can do it yourself in 1-2 hours if you follow the instructions. You will need:

• 🔧 Phillips screwdriver or screwdriver.
• 🔧 Plastic clips (if not included).
• 🔧 WD-40 or silicone grease (for easier installation).
• 🔧 Marker or masking tape (for marking).

Step 1: Preparing the car

Put Rapid on a flat surface and jack up the side you will start on. Remove the wheel - this makes it easier to attach the mudguard. Clean the arches from dirt (can be washed with water and dried).

Step 2: Removing old mudguards (if any)

If your car already has mudguards, carefully remove them without breaking the clips. Usually they are attached to 3-4 self-tapping screws and 2-3 plastic latches. On Rapid 2017 front mud flaps are often attached to the bumper - be careful not to damage it.

Step 3: Installing New Mud Flaps

Start with the front mudguard:

1. Attach the mudguard to the arch and line up the holes.
2. Secure the top part with self-tapping screws (usually 2 pieces).
3. Snap the bottom clips (it’s best to lubricate them with WD-40).
4. Check that the mudguard does not touch the wheel when rotating.

Rear mudguards are installed in a similar way, but additional holes often need to be drilled there (if they are not in the body). Use a drill 6–8 mm and do not forget to treat the edges of the holes with anti-corrosion agent.

⚠️ Attention: If after installation the mudguard touches the wheel, it must be bent or trimmed. Ignoring this problem will lead to friction, squeaks and rapid wear of the plastic.

What to do if the mudguard does not fit on the fastenings?

If the holes do not line up, do not try to force the mudguard into place as this will cause cracks. It is better to carefully widen the holes in the plastic with a drill or heat it with a hairdryer (the plastic will become softer). For rear mudguards, sometimes it is necessary to modify the mount to the bumper - use double-sided tape or additional clips.

Top 5 mistakes when installing mudguards and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners make mistakes when installing mud flaps. Here are the most common:

1. Wrong size choice. For example, buying mud flaps from a pre-styling Rapid (2012–2016) instead of those relevant for 2017. This leads to the fact that the mudguard does not completely cover the arch.
2. Using metal screws instead of plastic clips. The metal rusts and damages the body. Always use original clips or stainless steel equivalents.
3. Lack of processing of fasteners. If you do not lubricate the clips with silicone, they may burst at the first frost.
4. Installation without removing the wheel. This makes the fasteners difficult to access and often results in a crooked fit.
5. Ignoring adjustments after installation. The mudguard should not touch the wheel or bumper - this causes squeaks and vibrations.

To avoid problems, keep an eye on:

• 🔧 Tightening screws - do not overtighten, otherwise you will break the thread.
• 🔧 Symmetry — mudguards should be at the same level on both sides.
• 🔧 Gaps — there should be no gaps larger than 2–3 mm between the mudguard and the body.

How to care for mudguards so they last longer?

Mud flaps are a consumable item, but with proper care they can last 5–7 years instead of the standard 2–3. Basic rules:

1. Regular washing. Dirt and salt corrode plastic and fasteners. Wash mudguards every time you wash your car, paying attention to:

• 🧼 Inner side (sand accumulates there).
• 🧼 Fastenings (clips and screws).
• 🧼 Joints with the body (where corrosion often begins).

2. Treatment with protective compounds. Once a season, apply to mudguards:

• 🛡️ Silicone grease - prevents cracking of plastic.
• 🛡️ Anti-gravel film — protects against chips (relevant for front mudguards).
• 🛡️ Wax or polish - adds shine and repels dirt.

3. Checking the fastenings. Every 10–15 thousand km check:

• 🔧 Reliability of the clips (they can fall out when driving off-road).
• 🔧 No cracks in the plastic (especially after winter).
• 🔧 Condition of self-tapping screws (if rusty, replace with stainless steel ones).

⚠️ Attention: If cracks appear on the mudguard, do not try to seal them with tape or sealant. The plastic has already lost its strength, and the mudguard will soon fall apart. It's better to replace it immediately.

Where to buy mud flaps for Škoda Rapid 2017: verified sellers

Prices for mudguards for Rapid vary greatly depending on where you buy them. We have compiled a rating of reliable sellers with current prices (for 2026):

Seller	Original (set)	Heko (set)	Polcar (set)	Delivery
Official dealer Škoda	10 000–12 000 ₽	—	—	Free (when ordering through the service)
Exist.ru	8 500–9 500 ₽	3 200–3 800 ₽	2 800–3 300 ₽	From 300 rubles (in the Russian Federation)
Autodoc	9 000–10 000 ₽	3 500–4 000 ₽	3 000–3 500 ₽	Free from 5,000 rubles
AliExpress (brand Sideflex)	—	2 500–3 000 ₽	2 200–2 700 ₽	Free (long)

Buying Tips:

• 🛒 On Exist.ru and Autodoc There are often discounts of up to 20% - keep an eye out for promotions.
• 🛒 When ordering from AliExpress check with the seller whether the mudguards are suitable specifically for the restyled Rapid 2017.
• 🛒 At official dealerships you can order mudguards with installation - this will cost 12 000–15 000 ₽ per set.

Frequently asked questions about mud flaps on the Škoda Rapid 2017

Is it possible to install mudguards without removing the wheels?

Technically yes, but it will make the process much more complicated. Without removing the wheel, it is difficult to reach the mounts, especially on the rear arches. The risk of incorrect installation and damage to the clips increases. If you can't lift the car, at least turn the steering wheel to the side to get more room to maneuver.

What is the difference between mud flaps for Rapid and Rapid Spaceback?

The rear mudguards of these models are different due to the shape of the body. For Rapid Spaceback (station wagon) they are longer and have a different bend (article numbers 5E6 805 213/214). The front mudguards are the same for both models.

Which plastic is better: hard or soft?

Hard plastic (original, Heko) lasts longer and holds its shape better, but can crack with a strong impact. Soft plastic (cheap analogues) absorbs shock, but wears out and sag faster. Hard plastic is optimal for Russian roads.

Do I need to drill holes in the body for installation?

On Rapid 2017 usually has enough standard holes, but for rear mudguards sometimes you need to drill 1-2 additional ones (if they don’t exist). Use a drill 6–8 mm and be sure to treat the edges with anti-corrosion agent (for example, Molykote or Dinitrol).

Can mudguards be painted to match the body color?

Yes, but it requires preparation. The plastic needs to be degreased and matted with sandpaper (P800–P1000) and apply plastic primer before painting. Use acrylic paint with a hardener - it lasts longer. In salons such a service costs 1 500–3 000 ₽ per set.