I just installed my front splash guards and was not prepared for the way those clips actually contact the lip of the painted body panel. I'm wondering if the clip has scraped the paint enough to be a corrosion risk. Anyone ever remove their splash guards to see how the area looks?

I don't remember the clips coming into contact with a painted metal surface. I will try to remember to look at mine next time I'm at my car and see what you are talking about.<br>

The front (exposed part) of the clip wraps around the splash guard. The other side of the clip goes in between the plastic fender liner and the lip of the painted body panel, clamping against the body panel.<p>To answer my own question, though, I just removed the guards and don't see any damage. However, the hidden portion of the body panel may have its paint damaged. I'll feel for it next time I wash the car.<p>I just didn't like the look of the car with the guards. I found them "chunky" and not up to the fit and finish standards of the rest of the vehicle. They also didn't rest perfectly flush against the body, inviting dirt and debris to get trapped, and created a gap between fender liner and body panel that could trap moisture and dirt. The lower body of the car seems sufficiently chip protected (hopefully) to last a few days of salt/gravel per year.<p>Anyone want my guards?

I don't think that the fender is actually metal where the clip connects. You may experience some paint scratching, but I doubt that it will rust.

I have a 98 Pearl 1.8TQ and I smash up my right side black splash guard. I need one (or would take both I guess), but I have know idea what those suckers are worth. My e-mail is bpsmith@telusplanet.net Talk to ya....

The fender metal becomes the lip of the wheel well arch, and this is where the clip attaches. The clip pushes the fender liner away from the lip and fastens on. In addition to rust concerns, I was also concerned about the gap formed from the fender lines being pushed away from the lip - providing a space for debris to get trapped.<p>In removing the guards, I do not see any visible damage to the paint, fortunately. However, if there is damage, it would be to the hidden side of the metal lip. I'll probably just smear some wax back there with a q-tip to help protect any damage the clip may have caused.<p>Then again, maybe I'm totally wrong and overly paranoid since its my first new car :-)