Introduction
Truck wheel well covers are important components used to guard against road and weather damage to the vulnerable parts of your vehicle. This type of cover has been popular for decades, providing extra protection against salt, potholes and other roadway hazards that vehicles come in contact with while driving on the road. In some cases they also act as decorative enhancements to the overall look of a truck’s exterior.
Wheel well covers are often confused with hubcaps or body moldings which are separate pieces designed to provide additional aerodynamic protection and act as protective barriers between moving parts such as wheels and drive shafts. Wheel well covers, however, offer complete coverage of exposed surfaces such as fenders, quarter panels and sides of the truck including all exposed suspension components up to the top of the wheel opening itself.
Purposes of Wheel Well Covers
Truck wheel well covers provide a variety of functions. Most commonly, they are used to cover and protect the wheel wells of vehicles from scuffs, dirt, grime, and other sources of wear. These covers not only make vehicles look better but also reduce wear on tires, shocks, brakes and other vehicle components. Additionally, they help reduce outdoor noise while driving.
Wheel well covers are beneficial in multiple contexts. For instance, they can be particularly helpful for vehicles exposed to different terrain types or climates such as those in off-roading or mountainous areas that may have mud or sharp objects present which can damage tires. As another example, truck wheel well covers are useful for farmers who often drive over more rugged land to work their fields; without them the vehicle would be at risk for scratches and paint chips from rocks or sticks. Finally, wheel well covers can help guard against rust damage from salt water if an individual lives in an area near the ocean.
Types of Covers
Custom-Fit Covers are vehicle-specific covers designed to fit a specific make and model of truck. They are usually made from ABS plastic for great strength and protection, and feature exact contours that match the wheel wells exactly.
Universal Fit Covers are designed to serve as a generic solution for aftermarket applications, such as those on older trucks. They’re more adjustable than custom covers and typically fit around a variety of shapes and sizes. The universal fit option is especially helpful if your truck isn’t compatible with the custom-fit covers.
Adjustable Fit Covers provide an in-between option between custom-fitted and universal wheel well covers. Adjustable fit covers often have a verity of adjustment points so they can adapt to different wheel wells sizes, yet still offer specific coverage areas against dirt, dust, salt or other damaging elements that may come in contact with them.
Factors When Choosing
When shopping for wheel well covers, there are a few different factors to consider. These includes the material that it is made from, the level of protection it offers and the style of the wheel well cover itself.
Generally speaking, most wheel well covers are made of either plastic or vinyl which offer great protection against dust and dirt build up in your wheel wells. However if you want higher levels of protection, you may want to opt for polyester or neoprene wheel well covers as these materials provide greater resistance to wear and tear and offer more water-resistant benefits. For maximum durability choose a wheel well cover with double-sided lining to help resist tears due to heavy load hauling or off-roading activities.
Finally, you’ll also have to take into account the style and design of the wheel well covers that best suit your vehicle’s look. You can opt for sleek designs that don’t draw attention or choose bolder designs that stand out. Depending on the amount of coverage needed, there are also universal options available for those who want a hassle free solution for all four wheels.
Maintenance
Aluminum Truck Wheel Well Covers:
• Clean aluminum truck wheel well covers with a soft cloth doused in mild soap and water.
• Do not scrub heavily, as this can cause cosmetic damage such as scratches.
• Use an aluminum polish to add extra protection and shine if desired.
Steel/Metal Truck Wheel Well Covers:
• Clean steel/metal truck wheel well covers with a cotton cloth dampened with detergent and warm water.
• When cleaning, be careful to avoid scratching or damaging the finish. Using a light touch should do the trick. Also avoid power washers to prevent rusting or warping of metal surfaces.
• A paste wax may be applied after drying to help provide protection from the elements.
Recap
The cost for truck wheel well covers will vary depending on the model and type but can range from $30 to upwards of $100. They can last for many years if taken care of properly, potentially saving hundreds or even thousands of dollars in repairs and replacements. Wheel well covers are important because they are placed inside the wheel wells to prevent debris from entering the cavities, while also helping air move around the tire which reduces drag and helps improve fuel efficiency. Additionally, they can help reduce noise and temperature, offer protection against corrosion, and keep water and moisture out too. With regular maintenance involving washing off mud and dirt, these covers can prove to be an excellent investment that pays dividends over time.
