What are Side Skirts on a Car: Benefits, Installing and Drawbacks

There are various ways to enhance the car’s performance and aesthetics, and one popular way is the installation of side skirts. These sleek panels are positioned along the lower edge of a car’s body.

Understanding what side skirts are, their benefits and drawbacks, the installation process, cost considerations, etc., is essential for every car owner.

Side skirts on a car are aerodynamic panels attached along the lower edge of the car’s body, typically running from the front to the rear wheel wells. They serve both functional and aesthetic purposes.

Functionally, side skirts streamline airflow along the car’s sides, reducing drag and improving stability at higher speeds. Aesthetically, they add a sleek and sporty appearance to the car, making it look lower and enhancing its overall visual appeal.

Side skirts offer numerous benefits to car owners, both in terms of performance and aesthetics, such as:

• Improved Aerodynamics: Side skirts streamline airflow along the car’s sides, reducing drag and enhancing overall performance, especially at higher speeds.
• Enhanced Stability: They help minimise turbulence underneath the car, improving stability and handling, particularly during cornering and highway speeds.
• Sleek Appearance: Side skirts add a sporty and aggressive look to the car, enhancing its visual appeal and giving it a more customised appearance.
• Protection Against Debris: Acting as a barrier, side skirts prevent rocks, gravel, and other road debris from damaging the car's bodywork, preserving its exterior condition.
• Heat Dissipation: It is designed to help dissipate heat generated by the car’s exhaust system, reducing the risk of engine overheating and improving engine performance.
• Potential Fuel Efficiency: Side skirts can contribute to better fuel economy by reducing aerodynamic drag, especially during highway driving conditions.
• Increased Resale Value: Well-maintained side skirts can enhance the car’s resale value by preserving its exterior condition and adding to its visual appeal.

While side skirts offer various advantages, they also come with some drawbacks that car owners should consider:

• Ground Clearance Issues: Lowering the car’s ride height with side skirts can lead to scraping or bottoming out on speed bumps, driveways, or rough terrain, potentially causing damage to the panels or other components.
• Susceptibility to Damage: Due to their lower positioning, side skirts are vulnerable to scrapes and impacts from road debris, leading to potential scratches, dents, or even cracks, necessitating expensive repairs or replacements.
• Added Weight: Installation of side skirts adds extra weight to the car, albeit marginal. This additional mass can affect overall performance, handling, and fuel efficiency, especially in cars where every pound matters.
• Cost of Installation and Maintenance: Professional installation of side skirts can be expensive, and maintaining them may require regular cleaning and occasional repairs, adding to the overall cost of ownership.
• Limited Availability for Certain Models: Side skirts may not be readily available for all car makes and models, limiting customisation options and possibly requiring custom fabrication or modification.

Installing side skirts involves the below seven steps to ensure proper fitment and functionality:

• Step 1: Preparation: Begin by thoroughly cleaning the car’s underside and the mounting area where the side skirts will be attached.
• Step 2: Positioning: Carefully align the side skirts along the lower edges of the car's body, ensuring they are symmetrical and properly positioned.
• Step 3: Attachment: Side skirts may be attached using adhesive, screws, or clips. Follow the manufacturer's instructions closely for the attachment method.
• Step 4: Securing: Once positioned correctly, secure the side skirts in place using the chosen attachment method. Ensure that they are firmly attached to the car’s body.
• Step 5: Alignment: Double-check the alignment of the side skirts to ensure they are flush against the body and properly aligned with the car’s contours.
• Step 6: Finishing Touches: After securing the side skirts, inspect them for any gaps or unevenness along the edges. Use trim pieces or sealant to fill in any gaps.
• Step 7: Post-Installation Checks: Take the car for a test drive to ensure that they do not interfere with the car’s operation and remain securely attached.

The cost of side skirts can vary depending on factors such as the car make and model, material, brand, and installation method. On average, aftermarket side skirts in India can range from ₹5,000 to ₹25,000 or more, depending on the quality and design.

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) side skirts may be pricier due to their compatibility with specific cars and higher quality standards. Additionally, installation costs should be considered, as professional installation may incur additional expenses.

Car owners must thoroughly research and consider their budget and preferences before purchasing side skirts for their cars.

Car side skirts offer a blend of style and functionality, enhancing the performance and aesthetics of cars and are worth adding. While they provide benefits such as improved aerodynamics, stability, and protection, it's essential to consider potential drawbacks like ground clearance issues and installation costs. By understanding them, car owners can decide whether side skirts are the right modification for their cars.