What Are Side Skirts on a Car: Function, Types & Styling Tips

Side skirts on a car are a type of automotive body panel which car owners attach to the lower edges of their cars between the front and rear wheels and beneath the car doors. Side skirts not only uplift the aesthetic look of a car as they provide a lower and sportier appearance, but they also provide a few functional benefits.

If you are someone looking to uplift your car’s look using a side skirt, read about it, its types, installation steps, benefits and drawbacks in detail in this blog.

What are Side Skirts in a Car?

Side skirts on a car include special aerodynamic panels that stay attached to the edge of the lower part of a car's body. Its typical design runs from the front wheels of a car to its rear wheels. Car owners install such an attachment to their cars not only to uplift the aesthetic look of their cars but also to gain some functional improvements.

If you are wondering what does a side skirt on a car look like, note that it looks like a sleek, elongated panel made of plastic, fibreglass, carbon fibre or metal, shaped as a smooth or sculpted body extension with a low-profile design.

Focusing on its function, it improves aerodynamics by enhancing airflow and reducing drag, especially at high speeds, which helps boost your vehicle’s overall performance. Furthermore, it helps maintain stability on roads, helps with improved heat dissipation, potentially increases fuel efficiency, etc.

What are the Types of Side Skirts on a Car?

The side skirt types of car in India include two different variants, such as the OEM side skirts and universal side skirts. Here is a description of these two types:

OEM Side Skirts

OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer, and as its name implies, these are the side skirts that your car manufacturer provides with the car or sells them to install. These are typically tailored to specific models of their cars and thus allow for a better fitting, gap control and an overall aesthetic integration.

Universal Side Skirts

Compared to an OEM side skirt, universal ones are not specific to a certain car model. Hence, these are typically adaptable across various makes and models. Although having such flexibility, it may come with alignment issues, which may require trimming and additional costs.

However, keeping insurance norms in mind, you must inform your insurer about such a modification to keep them updated about changes made to your car.

Also Read: Which Car Parts Are Covered Under Insurance?

How to Install Side Skirts on a Car?

Now that you know what are side skirts in a car, you must be wondering how to install them. Here is a guide to follow:

Preparation

Begin by cleaning your car thoroughly, its underside and the mounting area where you will install a side skirt.

Positioning

Align the side skirt along the lower edge of your car’s body. It is important because you must install it symmetrically and position it properly.

Attachment

To attach side skirts on a car, it is always wise to follow your car’s manufacturer's instructions. You can attach an OEM sideskirt using clips, adhesive or screws. By following their instructions, install a side skirt properly.

Alignment

Check the alignment of the side skirts and ensure that they flush well against your car’s body. Also, ensure that they are aligned properly with the contours of your car.

Finishing Touch

As you finish attaching the side skirt to your car, inspect it well to locate any gaps or unevenness along its edges. If you find gaps, you may use trim pieces or sealants to fill such gaps.

After Installation

To check the proper fitting of the side skirt, take your car for a test drive. During this, ensure that the side skirts stay securely attached to your car and do not interfere with its operation.

Also Read: What is White Petrol & How it is Different from Normal Petrol?

How Much Do Side Skirts on Cars Cost in India?

The average cost of a side skirt in India depends on different factors, including the material and brand of the side skirt, the car's make and model and its installation process. Typically, an aftermarket side skirt in India costs between ₹5,000 and ₹25,000, depending on its quality and design.

However, installing an OEM side skirt is always wise as they come with high-quality standards and fit well with your car’s model. However, due to these factors, they may be pricier than an aftermarket side skirt.

Additionally, consider the cost of getting it installed at a service centre, as expert installation is usually more precise than doing it yourself.

What are the Benefits of Side Skirts on Cars?

You have already noted that it helps with performance improvement and aesthetics. Learning the benefits in detail can shape your installation decision better:

Increased Stability

Apart from streamlining aerodynamics, side skirts also help improve stability. They assist with reducing turbulence underneath your car and improving stability with handling. Such stability helps with cornering and on the highway, where maintaining a certain speed is necessary.

Protect Against Debris

As you install side skirts on car, they act as a protection against debris, gravel, rocks and more on the roads, which may impact your car’s bodywork. Thus, it helps preserve the exterior condition of your car.

Dissipation of Heat

Such an attachment helps dissipate the heat that your car’s exhaust system generates. It lowers the risk of overheating and improves the performance of the engine.

Increases Resale Value

A new car typically loses 15% to 20% of its value within the first year of its purchase. Well-maintained side skirts on a car help protect the exterior and improve its visual appeal, thereby increasing its resale value.

Also Read: Depreciation Shield in Car Insurance: Benefits and Importance During Renewal

What are the Drawbacks of Installing Side Skirts on a Car?

A few drawbacks of side skirts for a car include issues related to ground clearance, increased cost, etc. Here is a detailed view:

Ground Clearance Issues

As you add a side skirt and lower the car’s height, it may bottom out on the speed bumps on the road, rough terrain or driveways, causing damage to itself.

Cost for Installation

Apart from the price of side skirts, a proper installation from an expert requires additional cost. This increases your overall expenses.

Other Issues

Other issues may include susceptibility to damage and scratches, added weight and limited availability of these for certain car models, etc.

Final Word

Side skirts on a car are panels that car owners attach to improve their car's aerodynamics and enhance their car's visual appeal. You can install an OEM or an aftermarket side skirt on your car, but they differ in price and quality.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is installing side skirts on a car necessary?

No, but installing them may improve the overall aerodynamics of your car. As a result, its speed improves with overall performance, and it also uplifts the aesthetic of a car.

How long can a side skirt last?

Its longevity depends on the material it is made of, its quality, driving conditions and maintenance. A quality side skirt with proper maintenance may last for years.

Are side skirts legal in India?

Yes, side skirts are legal in India as long as they do not breach ground clearance norms or compromise safety measures as per the transport authorities.

Can I install the side skirt myself?

Yes, you can install side skirts by yourself if you have experience with car modifications. However, for a clean and proper installation, doing it from an authorised service centre is better.

Do I need to maintain or clean the side skirts regularly?

You may clean it monthly and run maintenance on it every 6 months for its longevity.

Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet and is subject to changes. Please consult an expert before making any related decisions.

Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.