Front right wing on Ε koda Octavia A7 - a detail that often goes unnoticed until it begins to make an unpleasant creak or is damaged from a blow on the curb. Meanwhile, it is this element that protects the wheel arches from dirt, corrosion and mechanical damage, and also affects the aerodynamics of the car. In this article, we will analyze how to choose the right part by article, what distinguishes the original underwings from analogues, and whether it is possible to replace them yourself without visiting the service.

We will pay special attention to the nuances for the facelift version Octavia A7 FL (2017–2020), where the design of the mounts has changed a little. Also consider typical installation errors that result in creaking or rapid wear of the part. If you are experiencing a damaged backrest problem or just want to update it before the winter season, you will find all the necessary information here, including prices, articles and step-by-step instructions.

Articles and analogues: how not to make a mistake with the choice

The original front right wing for Ε koda Octavia A7 (pre-facelift, 2013–2016) has an article 5E0 807 171 B 9B9. For the restyled version Octavia A7 FL (2017–2020) part with article used 5E0 807 171 C 9B9. Note: the letter at the end (B or C) is critical – the slats are not interchangeable due to the changed shape of the bumper mounts.

Among the verified analogues can be distinguished:

  • πŸ”Ή Febi (Article 38830) - budget version with a good fit, but thinner than the original by 0.5 mm.
  • πŸ”Ή Topran 211 878 – is close to the original in quality, but requires fitting on the mounts.
  • πŸ”Ή MTC 1603.87: Optimal price/quality ratio, but can creak at low temperatures.
  • πŸ”Ή Hutchinson (Article 5090 87) - premium analogue, the characteristics exceed the original.

When choosing, pay attention to the material: the original underwings are made from polypropylene reinforcedCheap analogues are often made from ordinary plastic, which cracks in the cold. Also check the completeness - the box should have all the necessary clips and bolts (the original set of 8 pieces).

πŸ“Š Which wings do you prefer to install?
  • Original (VAG)
  • Proven analogue (Febi, Topran)
  • Budgetary option (MTC, SWAG)
  • I don't know what to choose

Differences between underwings for dorestyling and facelift

The main difference between the slats Octavia A7 before and after facelift - the shape of the front part, which is attached to the bumper. In the version FL (2017+) an additional fixator appeared in the area of the fog lamp, and the bending angle in the zone of attachment to the subframe also changed. This means that:

  • πŸ”§ pre-facelift underslat never rise It's a facelift machine without any changes.
  • πŸ”§ On Octavia A7 FL with factory xenon, a modified under-wing with a cutout under the ignition unit is used (article) 5E0 807 171 D 9B9).
  • πŸ”§ The clips in the restyled version have a different diameter (8 mm instead of 6 mm).

If you buy a slat on disassembly, be sure to check the VIN of the donor car or check with the photo of the mounts. Even the visually original parts before and after 2017 are different shaped front ear for fixation to the bumper.

How to determine the restyled Octavia A7?

The restyled version (FL) was produced from 2017 to 2020. The main external differences: a modified grille, LED headlights (in top-end configurations), another form of bumper and taillights. There is a sticker on the inside of the driver's door with a production date - if the car is released after June 2016, it's most likely a facelift.

When it’s time to change the slats: signs of wear

A slat is a consumable that loses its properties over time. The following signs indicate the need for replacement:

  • 🚨 Creak when moving indicates friction of the sling against the tire or body due to deformation.
  • 🚨 Cracks or tears - especially dangerous in the area of attachment to the arch, as they can lead to the separation of parts on the move.
  • 🚨 Traces of corrosion on metal elements under the part - means that the underwing has ceased to perform a protective function.
  • 🚨 Extraneous noise when passing irregularities - often caused by disconnected clips.

Critical point: if the underwing starts to cling to the tire when turning the steering wheel, it must be replaced immediately. This can cause damage to the sidewall of the tire or even rupture.

⚠️ Attention! On Octavia A7 With winter tires with a width of 225+, the original under-wing can touch the tires when the wheels are turned. In this case, it is recommended to install a shortened analogue (for example, Febi 38830 Short) or to finalize the standard part.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the front right wing

To replace the slats, you will need:

  • πŸ”§ 10 mm socket wrench (for fastening bolts).
  • πŸ”§ Plastic spatula or screwdriver with a flat sting (for clips).
  • πŸ”§ New clips (8 pieces, article) N 908 132 01).
  • πŸ”§ WD-40 or similar composition (for boiling bolts).

Sequence of actions:

  1. Remove the front right wheel, having previously jacked the car and setting the stops under the rear wheels.
  2. Unscrew 3 bolts of the mounting of the wing to the subframe (end key to 10).
  3. Carefully click the clips around the perimeter of the arch, starting at the back. Use a plastic spatula so as not to break the locks.
  4. Disconnect the front part of the underwing from the bumper, pre-screwing 1 bolt of the mount (on the restyled version there are 2).
  5. Remove the old part and clean the seat from dirt.
  6. Install the new underwing in reverse order, starting with the fixation to the bumper.

Disable the battery's negative terminal (to avoid short circuits when working with metal)

Jack up the car and remove the wheel

Process WD-40 all mount bolts 10-15 minutes before the start of work

Prepare new clips and bolts (if replacement is required)

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On the restyled Octavia A7 FL Additionally you will need:

  • πŸ”§ Disconnect the tire pressure sensor connector (if TPMS is installed).
  • πŸ”§ Remove plastic protection of the subframe (holds on 4 clips).
⚠️ Attention! When installing, do not pull over the mounting bolts - this can deform the underplate and cause creaking. The moment of tightening for the M6 bolts is 8 N·m, for clips it is quite easy to press before clicking.

Comparison of original and non-original underswings: which is better?

Parameter Original (VAG) Febi/Topran Budget analogues
Material Reinforced polypropylene Polypropylene (thinner by 0.3–0.5 mm) Plastics (PVC)
Service life 5–7 years 3–5 years 1–2 years
Frost resistance Up to -40Β°C Up to -30Β°C. Up to -15Β°C (cracking)
Price, rub. 2 500–3 200 1 200–1 800 600–900
Completeness Full (clips, bolts) Partial (swing only) Minimum (required to buy the fastener)

Original underwings justify their price only in the case of long-term operation of the car (100,000+ km). For budget repairs, the best choice will be Febi or Topran They are cheaper by 30-40%, but at the same time are not inferior in severity. Cheap analogues (e.g., SWAG Unnamed Chinese parts are often needed to fit in place, and their service life rarely exceeds 1-2 seasons.

πŸ’‘

If you are buying a non-original understeer, be sure to check its flexibility. A quality detail should bend without cracking and return to its original state. Hard plastic is a sign of a low-grade material that will crumble in the first frost.

Typical replacement mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners sometimes make mistakes when installing the wings. Here are the most common of them:

  • πŸ”§ Incorrect withdrawal sequence If you first disconnect the underwing from the bumper, and not from the arch, you can break the mounts.
  • πŸ”§ Using old clips Plastic fixtures are disposable and lose their elasticity after dismantling.
  • πŸ”§ Bolt tightening - leads to deformation of the underbelly and creaking.
  • πŸ”§ Ignoring protection - without anticord treatment, the metal under the wing rusts 2 times faster.

To avoid problems:

  1. Before installing a new part, clean all seats of dirt and rust, treat them WD-40 or rust converter.
  2. Lubricate the new clips with silicone lubrication - this will facilitate future replacement.
  3. After installation, check the gaps: between the underwing and the tire should be at least 15 mm with the straight steering position.
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If the underwings creak when moving after replacing, most likely the problem is in one of three places: friction against the tire (you need to bend the detail), poorly fixed clips (reinstall) or the lack of a gasket between the underwing and the body (add a rubber strip).

FAQ: Frequent questions about the slats on the Octavia A7

Is it possible to drive without fender liner?

Technically, yes, but it will lead to accelerated corrosion of the arches, dirt entering the hood space and possible damage to the brake hoses. At speeds above 80 km/h, the absence of a backrest worsens aerodynamics, increasing fuel consumption by 0.3–0.5 l/100 km.

Which fender liner is better - plastic or rubber?

For Octavia A7 The plant provides only plastic option. Resin slats (e.g. from the Hepu) can be installed, but they are less durable and require regular treatment with silicone. Plastic parts better hold the shape and do not smack in the cold.

Screaming a new wing - what to do?

Causes of squeaking:

  • πŸ”Ή Friction on the tire (bend the edge of the wing or install a gasket).
  • πŸ”Ή Badly recorded clips (check all mounting points).
  • πŸ”Ή No lubrication between the underflate and the body (use a silicone spray).

If the creak is not eliminated, try replacing the clips with metal (articles). N 908 132 03).

Do I need to remove the bumper to replace the fender liner?

No, on Octavia A7 You don't have to take the bumper off. It is enough to unscrew 1-2 bolts of the mounting of the wing to the bumper (depending on the year of release) and carefully bend it. Complete removal of the bumper is required only when replacing the backpack together with the arch amplifier.

How often do fender liners need to be changed?

Service life depends on operating conditions:

  • πŸ”Ή In urban mode - once every 5-7 years.
  • πŸ”Ή With frequent trips on dirt roads - once every 3-4 years.
  • πŸ”Ή After severe mechanical damage (hitting the curbs) - immediately.

Regularly inspect the underwings when seasonally changing wheels or washing a car.