These are aftermarket vehicle accessories designed to adhere to the external panels of automobiles, typically along the door or quarter panel areas. Their function is primarily to offer a degree of protection against minor impacts, such as those encountered in parking lots, and to potentially enhance a vehicle’s aesthetic appearance. These are designed to be adaptable to a broad spectrum of vehicle makes and models. A common example would be a flexible, paintable strip that can be cut to size and attached to a car door to prevent scratches.
The utilization of these accessories offers several advantages. They act as a first line of defense against dings and scrapes, potentially preserving the underlying paint and bodywork, thereby contributing to the vehicle’s resale value. Furthermore, they can provide a customized visual element, allowing vehicle owners to personalize their car’s appearance. Historically, similar protective strips have been used in various forms, evolving from simple rubber bumpers to more sophisticated, color-matched, and styled additions.