What Is A Valance Panel?
The
bumper is essentially a set of different elements joined together to get the
best possible protection for the front and rear sections of the vehicle. The Valance Panel in one such structure that serves its purpose as part
of the bumper components. Valance panels are primarily used in older model
bumpers and trucks which have integrated bumper sections. These provide the
facade for other bumper elements. Valance panels also correspond to
underlining in the bumper which protects the important engine section from
beneath. This is usually done as aerodynamic enhancement and serves for
protection as well.
Where Is The Valance Panel Located?
Valance
panels can be sections of both front and rear bumpers and therefore can be
found on both ends of the vehicle.
Types Of Valance Panels
The valance panels are of three types:
- Integrated
Bumper Valance: These panels are part of the bumper
structure.
- Bumper Underlay
Valance Panel: These panels are similar to under engine
covers and act as a protective accessory under the bumper.
- Car Aerodynamic Valance: Used as an aerodynamic-enhancement. Also known as Front splitter and featuring an improved look.
These panels are further classified into sub-categories consisting of two types:
- Complete: These panels that stretch the entire length of the bumper.
- Partial: It consists of a
panel that does not cover the entire length of the bumper, and may only have
partial pieces.
Important Features Of Valance Panels
Valance
panels are crucial components of the bumper. Some panels are also used as
aerodynamic improvements that offer a distinctive appearance. These types of
valance panels help improve the airflow under the vehicle whereas integrated
valance panels are used as a structural part of the bumper in some cars. They
are made of durable materials like steel or aluminium since they are prone to
constant road abuse as the valance is also a protective accessory. It gives
your vehicle protection from dirt, dust, debris, mud splashes, and other damage-causing
elements that you might encounter on the road. If you often use your ride for
off-road applications, then this accessory is ideal for you.
Frequent Problems With Valance Panels
These are the common issues associated with the valance panel:
- These panels take constant road abuse as they are shot with debris, rocks, dirt and water and hence are prone to breakage over time, especially in off-roading vehicles where the valance may break due to direct impact of the bumper on the ground.
- Valance
panels positioned lower are prone to damages from driving over speed bumps,
angled driveways, potholes, and a host of other road irregularities in the
road. The Valance panel can get dented or cracked by rock hits, parking lot
stops, and assorted other mishaps.
Symptoms Of Bad Valance Panels
These
panels are positioned such that any damages are clearly visible since these
parts are situated on the outside of the vehicle and give a very unsightly
appearance. A tattered valance may produce screeching sounds when it drags
along the ground.
Tools Needed For Valance Panels
Grab these basic tools and start working on your vehicle to fix the valance panel:
Top Brand For Valance Panels
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Related Parts Of Valance Panels
To customize your vehicle and to make your ride look better while also increasing performance, consider getting other style enhancing elements here:
Total Cost & Repair Times, Effort For Valance Panels
The
valance takes a lot of road abuse which renders them beyond repair with
fissures, dents, ditches or get scratched up pretty hard and a replacement is
always a good option. Valance panels usually last a long time without major
issues unless the bumper is severely damaged in an accident. Premium quality
valance is recommended as the valance needs to be durable and light for
attaining the best performance while also giving structural rigidity. An
average valance repair job may cost around 200-350$ but a self-repair or DIY
will only incur the replacement parts costs.
How To Change The Valance Panel?
Here is how you need to replace the Valance panel:
- To
begin, slide under your car using a car creeper and locate the plastic clips
connecting your valance to your vehicle. These are usually located at the
backside of the bumper.
- After
locating them, use a clip tool or a flathead screwdriver to pry out the clips.
Once the clips are removed, carefully take out the valance from the bumper by
pulling it down.
- Clean
your bumper, then get your replacement valance and position it beneath your
bumper. Once you are satisfied with its placement, push it onto your bumper.
- To secure its connection, slide back under your car and prepare your screwdriver and pliers to install the plastic clips.
- The
panels that are part of the bumper can be installed in a similar fashion except
you may also need to install a few bolts to secure the valance to the bumper.