The fender liner, also known as a splash shield, is an essential component of the Dodge Durango's wheel well assembly. It protects the vehicle's engine bay and undercarriage from road debris, water, and other contaminants kicked up by the tires during driving.
Fender liners serve as a barrier between the wheel and the engine compartment. They prevent dirt, rocks, mud, and moisture from entering sensitive areas, which can cause corrosion, damage electrical components, and affect overall vehicle performance. By shielding critical parts, fender liners help extend the lifespan of your vehicle.
Over time, fender liners can wear out or become damaged due to harsh driving conditions or impacts. Signs that your fender liner may need replacement include:
- Visible cracks or tears in the liner
- Unusual noises coming from the wheel area
- Loose or hanging pieces of the liner
- Increased dirt or debris accumulation in the engine bay
- Visible cracks or tears in the liner
- Unusual noises coming from the wheel area
- Loose or hanging pieces of the liner
- Increased dirt or debris accumulation in the engine bay
Regular inspection of the fender liners can prevent potential problems. Here are some tips:
- Check for damage during routine vehicle maintenance
- Ensure all fasteners and clips are secure
- Clean the liners to remove built-up dirt and debris
- Replace any worn or damaged components promptly
- Check for damage during routine vehicle maintenance
- Ensure all fasteners and clips are secure
- Clean the liners to remove built-up dirt and debris
- Replace any worn or damaged components promptly
Installing a new fender liner involves several steps:
- Safely elevate the vehicle and remove the wheel for better access
- Remove any clips or screws attaching the old liner
- Carefully detach the damaged liner from the wheel well
- Align the new liner correctly within the wheel well
- Secure it using the original clips or screws
- Reinstall the wheel and lower the vehicle
It's recommended to consult the Dodge Durango's service manual or seek professional assistance to ensure proper installation.
- Safely elevate the vehicle and remove the wheel for better access
- Remove any clips or screws attaching the old liner
- Carefully detach the damaged liner from the wheel well
- Align the new liner correctly within the wheel well
- Secure it using the original clips or screws
- Reinstall the wheel and lower the vehicle
It's recommended to consult the Dodge Durango's service manual or seek professional assistance to ensure proper installation.
Q: Can I drive my Dodge Durango without a fender liner?
A: While it's possible, driving without a fender liner exposes vital components to damage from debris and moisture, potentially leading to costly repairs.
Q: How often should fender liners be replaced?
A: Fender liners should be replaced when they show signs of significant wear or damage. Regular inspections can help determine when replacement is necessary.
Q: Are fender liners the same as wheel well liners?
A: Yes, fender liners and wheel well liners refer to the same part that lines the inside of the wheel well to protect the vehicle's undercarriage.
Q: Do aftermarket fender liners affect vehicle performance?
A: High-quality aftermarket fender liners designed for the Dodge Durango should not negatively impact performance and can offer similar protection as original equipment.
A: While it's possible, driving without a fender liner exposes vital components to damage from debris and moisture, potentially leading to costly repairs.
Q: How often should fender liners be replaced?
A: Fender liners should be replaced when they show signs of significant wear or damage. Regular inspections can help determine when replacement is necessary.
Q: Are fender liners the same as wheel well liners?
A: Yes, fender liners and wheel well liners refer to the same part that lines the inside of the wheel well to protect the vehicle's undercarriage.
Q: Do aftermarket fender liners affect vehicle performance?
A: High-quality aftermarket fender liners designed for the Dodge Durango should not negatively impact performance and can offer similar protection as original equipment.
Keeping your Dodge Durango's fender liners or splash shields in good condition is crucial for protecting the engine bay and undercarriage from potential damage. Regular maintenance and timely replacement of damaged liners ensure your vehicle remains protected against the elements, contributing to its longevity and reliability.
