Thresholds in a car - replacement of thresholds, maintenance, corrosion protection

Car sills are flat metal strips that builders place at the base of the door. They provide protection against bending of the elements of the car body located in this place. They are also a place to lean on when getting in or out of the car. The use of thresholds in a car means they can wear out quickly. That's why it pays to know how to replace them and care for them - in a variety of ways. The most important information on this topic is here!

Thresholds in the car - characteristics

Thresholds in the car they are characterized by a textured surface. The sheet retains moisture and dirt, which is a positive aspect of their installation. However, in the long term, this means that corrosion or visible scratches and cavities may appear on their surface. You should know that almost every scratch, scratch or chip negatively affects the visual and technical condition. thresholds in the car.

Damaged sills - when to decide to replace a part?

Thresholds in a vehicle should be replaced when it is determined that they are no longer usable. This will not only preserve the good appearance of the car as a whole, but also reduce the likelihood of corrosion, moisture or dirt getting inside the car. Sometimes it is not always necessary to replace the thresholds in the car. 

Threshold replacement - repair step by step

Car thresholds can have a different shape. From a simple cut aluminum sheet to a diamond plate or equipped with a backlight. The sill plate is mainly designed to protect the car frame from wear, provide traction, but also has a decorative function.

Damage to some thresholds most often occurs due to direct exposure to wind, temperature changes, road salt, or physical damage. This is when rust and erosion most often appear. In this case, the thresholds of the car need to be replaced. You will learn how to do it with us!

Specify the size of the element to be replaced

The main aspect is to make sure that the size of the new item matches the size of the old one. Threshold plate runs parallel to the seat and is located below the doorway and closer to the bottom. 

Using a tape measure, find out what size thresholds should be in your car. Thanks to him, you can determine the length and width of the window sill. Some of these boards will wrap around the bottom of the frame. Use a tape measure to measure the width from one end to the fold and then from the fold down. 

The whole process should be repeated for all doors, because in some cases the individual entrances may differ - depending on the vehicle manufacturer. With the collected data, go to the auto parts store. Also have information about the year, make and model of the car with you. With this set of messages, you will select the appropriate thresholds in the car for replacement.

Removing old car thresholds

At the very beginning, do not forget to protect yourself with work clothes. First of all, work gloves are meant. Car thresholds are made of metal and can be very sharp. In most cases, it is enough to take the plate by the ends, lift it up and use the wedge when the element is between the sill plate and the car. By using the lever, you can make the piece pop out of its place. Sometimes it is enough to unscrew the fixing screws. It depends on the car model and its manufacturer.

Setting thresholds in the car

Just like removing thresholds in a car, installing new ones should not cause any special problems. Install the new part in the empty slot. You must start at one end and push it into place until it clicks. Repeat the same operation on the other side. Don't forget to reinstall the screws if necessary.

Is it always necessary to replace the thresholds in the car?

Sometimes it is enough to choose special protectors that protect the surface of the elements and significantly extend their service life. It is best to use them in new ways. They can be easily installed on the original metal sheets and provide them with additional support and protection. Thanks to this, the profile will not rust.

Also, do not forget about the standard cleaning. Car sill cleaners can be purchased in stores for only 2 euros. You can order preparations with different textures and sprays, applied by hand, dotted. With their help, the thresholds in the car will receive additional protection against rust, moisture and dirt. There are both OEM - Original Equipment Manufacturer products on the market, which come from the manufacturers of the car itself, as well as their cheaper or just other analogues.