### News Article

Title: DIY New Trend: Installing Car MudGuards by Yourself: A Money-Saving Trick or a "Useless" Challenge? **

** Introduction ** : The car mudguards I bought online have arrived. Should I easily save a hundred yuan on labor costs and install them myself, or take them directly to a repair shop? This has become a realistic problem faced by many car owners who are passionate about DIY or want to save money. In this issue, we will delve into the complexity of installing mudguards and provide you with a detailed "feasibility" guide.

**(This newspaper/Website News)**
With the popularization of automotive culture and the growth of personalized demands from car owners, DIY projects in the automotive aftermarket are quietly emerging. Among them, mudguards have become the preferred accessory for many car owners due to their strong functionality - they can effectively prevent the sand and stones lifted by the wheels during driving from hitting the car's paint surface and chassis, and at the same time reduce the splashing of mud and water in rainy days. However, is this seemingly simple component really complicated to install?

#### ** 1. Difficulty Analysis: Where is the "technical threshold" for installing mudguards? **

The reporter consulted several experienced auto mechanics and DIY enthusiasts and concluded that the complexity of installing mudguards "varies from vehicle to vehicle", but generally it is an "entry-level" DIY project. **

1. Low difficulty (suitable for beginners)
** * Model features: ** Most family sedans and SUVs.
** * Installation method: ** Install directly using the reserved holes in the vehicle's original factory (screw holes or snap holes on the wheel arch lining).
** * Required tools ** : Usually, only a Phillips screwdriver, a wrench (typically No. 10) or a socket is needed. Sometimes, a plastic prying tool may be required to remove the original vehicle clips.
** * Core steps ** : Turn the wheels fully in the right direction to free up operating space → Align with the hole position → Tighten the screws or install new clips. The entire process does not require drilling and is harmless to the vehicle.

2. Medium to high difficulty (it is recommended to be cautious or seek professional help)
** * Model features ** : For some specially designed models, it may be necessary to remove part of the wheel arch lining or even the rear bumper before installation.
** * Challenge ** : More components need to be disassembled, the operating space is limited, and professional crowbars and tools may be required. If the installation location requires self-drilling, there will be requirements for accuracy and tools (electric drills), and there is a risk of operational errors.

#### ** is it feasible to do it yourself? A self-check checklist for DIY beginners

For most low-difficulty installation scenarios, the answer is yes: You can definitely do it yourself! But before you roll up your sleeves, please answer the following questions first:

Do you have basic hands-on ability and patience? The installation process does not require advanced skills, but it does need to be meticulous and align the holes accurately.
Have you prepared the appropriate tools? "A workman who wants to do his job well must first sharpen his tools." It is crucial to ensure that all tools are complete and well-matched.
Have you purchased mudguards specifically designed for your car? Specialized parts for specific vehicles can match the original vehicle's hole positions to the greatest extent, achieving twice the result with half the effort.
Do you have a safe working environment? Make sure the vehicle is parked on a flat and safe surface, apply the handbrake, and if necessary, use a jack and a bracket to safely lift the vehicle.

Auto repair expert Master Wang reminds: "The joy of DIY lies in the process and the sense of achievement, but safety always comes first." If it involves removing the bumper or drilling holes, unless you are very confident, I would recommend entrusting it to a professional repair shop. The labor cost is usually not expensive and can prevent abnormal noises or component damage caused by improper installation."

#### ** III. Practical Experience: Personal accounts of DIY enthusiasts **

Mr. Li, a seasoned DIY enthusiast, shared his installation experience with the reporter: "I installed mudguards on my car, and it took me less than an hour." The mudguard purchased online comes with a complete set of screws and tools. The most difficult step is actually to lift the car up for the first time to ensure safety. When actually installing, following the video tutorial, it only took about ten minutes to complete one wheel. Seeing my beloved car become more "energetic" and also protecting the car paint gives me a great sense of achievement.

#### ** IV. Professional Installation: When to choose "Pay for Peace of Mind"? **

If you fall into any of the following situations, it is a wiser choice to take your car to a repair shop or car wash:
The installation of the vehicle model is complex and requires extensive disassembly or drilling.
I have no confidence at all in doing it myself and am worried about messing it up.
There is no time or unwillingness to prepare tools.
The purchased non-special vehicle universal model requires professional personnel to adjust.

"Conclusion:

For most ordinary car owners, the installation of car mudguards is not a complex "technical job", but rather an excellent opportunity to experience the fun of DIY and enhance their understanding of the vehicle. It tests more patience and meticulousness rather than professional skills. Before taking action, conduct thorough research on the vehicle model, prepare the tools and take safety precautions. You are likely to save a considerable amount of labor costs easily and gain a unique sense of satisfaction. However, giving up in the face of difficulties is also a kind of wisdom. When the situation exceeds one's ability, entrusting it to professionals is undoubtedly the best care for your car.

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