A Simple Way To Protect Your Vehicle from Rough Terrain

One of the most essential parts of your vehicle during off-roading is the skid plate. This is because this one piece of equipment can help prevent a substantial amount of damage to the front of your vehicle. Also, it can help prevent you from ending up on the side of the road or stuck in the middle of a trail. Today, we will take a deeper look into skid plates and how to ensure a safe and satisfying off-road driving experience. 


What is the Role of the Skid Plate?

A skid plate is a durable piece of metal or durable plastic that is located on the underside of your car, truck or SUV. This equipment is designed to act as a protective barrier between your vehicle and debris from the road. Skid plates play a crucial role in ensuring there is no damage to important vehicle parts such as the engine, transmission, oil pan, and gas tank. Without a skid plate, your vehicle can be exposed to damage that can lead to costly repair bills. 


Materials and Types of Skid Plates

There are three popular types of materials that you can use for your skid plate. Each one has its own unique advantages and disadvantages. 


● Steel Skid Plates: Steel is perhaps the strongest and most durable material that you can use for a skid plate. In fact, you can pretty much be assured that your vehicle is protected against most types of debris and impacts. The downside is that steel is the heaviest of the three options and can adversely affect your vehicle’s fuel economy. 


● Plastic/Composite Skid Plates: This is the lightest option when it comes to skid plates. However, this type of material offers the least amount of protection of the three. In effect, plastic/composite skid plates are an idea for sport driving in light off-road conditions. 


● Aluminum Skid Plates: Aluminum is lighter than steel and provides a really nice balance of protection and limits weight. Aluminum is also resistant to corrosion. At ASFIR 4x4, we only produce aluminum shielding because it is the best balance between durability and performance.

Types of Damage That Can Be Caused Without Skid Plates

Vehicles without a skid plate are vulnerable to several types of damage when encountered off-road or rough pavement. Some of the most common damage include pictures to the oil pan, impacts to the transmission through curb impacts, damage to the exhaust system, and impacts to the gas tanks due to potholes. A high-quality skid plate can protect your vehicle for all of these types of damage to your vehicle. 

Aluminum vs Plastic Skid Plates Aluminum vs Plastic Skid Plates
Aluminum vs Plastic Skid Plates

When to Replace Your Skid Plate

It is critical to know when your skid plate is due for replacement. Here are some of the most obvious signs that it is time to replace your vehicle’s skid plate.

Visible Damage

The most obvious sign that your skid plate needs to be replaced is visible damage. For instance, if you find cracks, bends or punctures in the skid plate, then it will not be able to properly protect the underside of your vehicle from the road or rough terrain.

Wear and Tear

Be on the lookout for excessive wear. Unlike outright damage to your vehicle, excessive wear is going to happen to every skid plate after a certain amount of use. Therefore, we recommend that you consider replacing your vehicle’s skid plate after it has received a significant amount of scratches and other indications of wear.

Rust and Corrosion

If you have a steel skid plate, then rust and corrosion are going to be inevitable. This type of wear can weaken your skid plate and make it more vulnerable to damage. In some cases, you will be able to clean off minor rusting and corrosion. However, if the rusting is extensive, then the skid plate will need to be replaced.

After a Major Impact

If your vehicle has gotten into an accident or if the skid plate has experienced a major impact, then it will need to be replaced. Even if you don’t see any visible damage, the force of the impact could have compromised the overall structure and integrity of the skid plate.

An example of an aluminum skid plate kit An example of an aluminum skid plate kit
An example of an aluminum skid plate kit

Why Replacing Your Skid Plate is Crucial

You need to make sure that your vehicle’s plate is always ready for rough conditions. Therefore, it is critical that it is replaced at the right time. Here are some of the top reasons to have your skid plate replaced right away.


Protecting Vital Components

The main reason you want to own a skid plate is to protect the vital parts of your vehicle. That includes some expensive areas that could also affect the overall ability to drive your vehicle in remote areas. By replacing your skid plate, you can protect your vehicle’s parts under harsh conditions.

Preventing Costly Repairs

If you drive with a damaged skid plate, you could risk costly repairs when debris is able to penetrate into vulnerable areas of your car, truck or SUV. As an example, if a rock or gravel hits your oil pan, then you will have to get that part replaced. Also, the loss of oil could lead to damage to the engine.

Maintaining Off-Road Performance


If you love to drive your vehicle off road, then you need to make sure that it is performing at its best. With a properly working skid plate, you can ensure that your vehicle will be unencumbered by rough terrain as well as flying debris. This will give you peace of mind as your vehicle tackles the most challenging terrain.

Enhancing Safety

You always need to make sure that you and your passengers are safe on the road as well as off-road. With an undamaged skid plate, you can lower your chances of breakdown and accidents.

Protect Your Vehicle with Durable and Lightweight Aluminum Skid Plates

ASFIR 4x4 offers easy-to-install aluminum skid plates for most make and model cars, trucks, and SUVs. The plates attach to your vehicle’s chassis and are designed to protect critical parts and systems under your vehicle from debris, impacts, and other potential damage. View our inventory and give your vehicle the protection that it deserves.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chances are you have more questions about replacing your vehicle’s skid plate. Here are some answers to the most frequently asked questions:


How often should I inspect my skid plate?

If you drive your vehicle frequently over rough terrain, then you should have it replaced every six to nine months. For those who only occasionally drive over rough terrain, consider replacing your skid plate every 12 to 24 months.

Can I repair a damaged skid plate instead of replacing it?

You can repair your skid plate if it exhibits minor damage such as scratches or scrapes. However, if the skid plate has any cracks or hotels, then it should be replaced right away.

Do I need a skid plate if I only drive on paved roads?

Skid plates are designed for off-road driving. However, there are benefits to having a skid plate even if you drive on paved roads. That is because some poorly maintained roads can cause debris to fly into the undercarriage of your vehicle. Also, occasional road hazards can potentially damage your vehicle without a skid plate.