[Sallyboy]

Does anyone know why those little mud flaps are there in front of the rear tires? Behind the tire I get but why in front?

 

[mexica]

I think it's for aerodynamics

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[madcratebuilder]

Paint protection.

 

[ckundred]

Definitely for paint protection--At least that's why I've always had them...

 

[CaryBosse]

The front "mud flaps" are technically called a WHEEL SPAT. They are there for aerodynamics, not sure if they add any protection to the truck, but I guess if you do most of your offroading in reverse, they might help.>

 

[Sallyboy]

the front "mud flaps" are technically called a wheel spat. They are there for aerodynamics, not sure if they add any protection to the truck, but i guess if you do most of your offroading in reverse, they might help.

lmfao!

 

[GH1618]

In wet conditions, water is released from the wheel around the circumference, and thrown forward as well as back. Anyone who has ridden a fenderless bicycle in the rain is familiar with this phenomenon.

 

[lqdchkn]

The front "mud flaps" are technically called a WHEEL SPAT. They are there for aerodynamics, not sure if they add any protection to the truck, but I guess if you do most of your offroading in reverse, they might help.>

^^^This

 

[hyperv6]

Yes the front flaps are defectors for air for the tires. Tires are very un aerodynamic and they really do help.


The plastic on the front lower corner of the bed is for stone protection. If anyone has owned S10 or Canyon you may remember how the paint was stripped away from this very spot.


But Cary is spot on as they are aero devices for MPG.

 

[ckundred]

The front "mud flaps" are technically called a WHEEL SPAT. They are there for aerodynamics, not sure if they add any protection to the truck, but I guess if you do most of your offroading in reverse, they might help.>

Sorry didn't read the post clearly enough...I thought he was referring to the small mud flaps behind the front tires...

 

[GraniteBlue05]

Yes those small plastic pieces on the front bottom edge are air deflectors to aid in air movement past the front tire.

GM does extensive wind tunnel testing and often comes up with solutions to problem areas.