How to Fix a Damaged Wheel Well Liner on Your C8 Corvette

How to Fix Wheel Well Issues

The 2020 Chevrolet Corvette, while celebrated for its performance, can experience issues with the wheel well. Owners have reported various problems related to this area, impacting both the aesthetics and functionality of the vehicle. As one owner shared: "I ended up replacing everything including M/C for under $700. Aesthetically I like a wheel opening filled with brake, small rotors on large wheels just looks goofy to me." (cdee63) This guide will provide steps on how to diagnose and address wheel well concerns, drawing upon experiences shared by fellow Corvette owners.

Symptoms

Owners have described a range of symptoms related to the wheel wells of the vehicle. These can include visual deformities, unusual noises, and functional problems that affect the driving experience. Identifying these symptoms early can help you address the root cause and prevent further damage.

One common symptom is visual damage to the wheel well liner or surrounding areas. This can manifest as cracks, tears, or detachment of the liner from the vehicle’s body. Debris and road salt can accumulate in these areas, leading to corrosion and further damage over time.

Another reported symptom is unusual noises emanating from the wheel well area. These noises can range from rattling and scraping sounds to more pronounced thumping or grinding noises. Such noises often indicate loose components, such as the wheel well liner or other parts of the suspension system.

Moisture intrusion is also a concern. Leaks can develop due to damaged or improperly sealed wheel wells, leading to water accumulation inside the vehicle. This can cause corrosion, mold growth, and electrical problems if left unaddressed.

Dusty conditions can also be related to the wheel well. If the liners are damaged or missing, more road debris and dust can enter the engine bay or other areas of the vehicle, leading to increased wear and tear on components.

Most Likely Cause

Based on owner reports, the most likely cause of issues stems from the wheel well liner itself. The liner is responsible for protecting the vehicle's undercarriage from debris, moisture, and corrosion. Damage to the liner, whether from impacts or general wear and tear, can lead to a cascade of problems.

The wheel well liner is often made of plastic, which can become brittle over time due to exposure to extreme temperatures and UV radiation. This can result in cracks and breaks, allowing debris to enter the wheel well and potentially damage other components.

Additionally, the fasteners that hold the wheel well liner in place can become loose or corroded over time. This can cause the liner to sag or detach from the vehicle, leading to further damage and allowing more debris to enter.

How to Diagnose

Diagnosing wheel well problems involves a combination of visual inspection and physical checks. You'll need to carefully examine the wheel wells and surrounding areas to identify any signs of damage or wear.

First, conduct a thorough visual inspection of the wheel well liner. Look for any cracks, tears, or signs of detachment. Pay close attention to areas that are exposed to frequent impacts from rocks or other debris.

Next, check the fasteners that hold the wheel well liner in place. Make sure they are securely attached and not corroded. If any fasteners are loose or damaged, they will need to be replaced.

Also, inspect the surrounding areas of the wheel well, including the suspension components and the vehicle's undercarriage. Look for any signs of damage or corrosion that may have been caused by debris entering the wheel well.

Finally, perform a physical check of the wheel well liner. Gently push and pull on the liner to see if it is securely attached. If the liner moves excessively or makes unusual noises, it may need to be repaired or replaced.

Tools needed for diagnosis include:

• Flashlight
• Screwdriver or socket set
• Gloves

Step-by-Step Fix

Repairing or replacing a damaged wheel well liner can be a straightforward process. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Gather your tools and parts: Make sure you have the necessary tools, including a screwdriver or socket set, as well as a replacement wheel well liner and any necessary fasteners.
2. Prepare the vehicle: Park your car on a level surface and engage the parking brake. If necessary, use a jack and jack stands to safely lift the vehicle and remove the wheel for better access to the wheel well. As one owner reported: "So way back when I thought that I was going to start assembling the body I was trying to level the car on my lift. I had bought a lift, rebuilt it, and installed and leveled it." (mccarley)
3. Remove the old wheel well liner: Carefully remove the fasteners that hold the old wheel well liner in place. These may include screws, bolts, or plastic clips. Be careful not to damage the surrounding components.
4. Clean the wheel well: Once the old liner is removed, clean the wheel well area to remove any dirt, debris, or corrosion. This will help ensure that the new liner fits properly and provides adequate protection.
5. Install the new wheel well liner: Position the new wheel well liner in the wheel well and align it with the mounting holes. Secure the liner in place using the new fasteners, making sure they are snug but not overtightened.
6. Check the fit and alignment: Once the new liner is installed, check the fit and alignment to make sure it is properly positioned and securely attached. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure a proper fit.
7. Reinstall the wheel (if removed): If you removed the wheel for better access, reinstall it and tighten the lug nuts to the proper torque specification.
8. Test drive the vehicle: Take the vehicle for a test drive to make sure the new wheel well liner is functioning properly and not causing any unusual noises or vibrations.

As one owner shared: "I tried using the two shims at the right at one end of the hinge to try to force the bottom back of the door out. That didn't work so I cut two more pieces off the other end of what was left of the shims at the left and that didn't help either." (mccarley) This illustrates that some repairs can be more challenging than anticipated. If you encounter any difficulties during the repair process, consider seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic.

Parts and Tools Needed

• Replacement wheel well liner (Part number will vary based on specific model and location)
• Fasteners (screws, bolts, or plastic clips)
• Screwdriver or socket set
• Wrench
• Jack and jack stands (optional)
• Gloves
• Safety glasses

Real Owner Costs

The cost of repairing or replacing a wheel well liner can vary depending on the extent of the damage and whether you choose to do the repair yourself or hire a professional mechanic.

DIY Repair:

• Replacement wheel well liner: $50 - $150
• Fasteners: $5 - $10
• Total DIY Cost: $55 - $160

Professional Repair:

• Replacement wheel well liner: $50 - $150
• Fasteners: $5 - $10
• Labor: $100 - $300
• Total Professional Cost: $155 - $460

These are estimates, and the actual cost may vary. Some owners have reported spending upwards of $700 on related repairs, as illustrated by the quote: "I ended up replacing everything including M/C for under $700. Aesthetically I like a wheel opening filled with brake, small rotors on large wheels just looks goofy to me." (cdee63)

Prevention

Preventing wheel well problems involves regular maintenance and careful driving habits. Here are some tips to help keep your vehicle's wheel wells in good condition:

• Avoid driving through deep puddles or standing water: This can cause excessive moisture to enter the wheel wells and lead to corrosion.
• Be careful when driving on gravel roads or construction sites: These areas often have loose debris that can damage the wheel well liners.
• Regularly inspect the wheel wells for any signs of damage or wear: Catching problems early can prevent them from escalating.
• Wash your vehicle regularly, including the wheel wells: This will help remove dirt, debris, and road salt that can cause corrosion.
• Consider applying a protective coating to the wheel well liners: This can help protect them from damage and extend their lifespan.

What Owners Say

Real experiences from CHEVROLET owners:

Owner Experiences

"So way back when I thought that I was going to start assembling the body I was trying to level the car on my lift. I had bought a lift, rebuilt it, and installed and leveled it." — mccarley (source)

"I had bought a lift, rebuilt it, and installed and leveled it. I rolled the chassis on it and was trying to level the frame to the lift by adjusting the suspension." — mccarley (source)

"Quote: Originally Posted by grinder11 Stock rockers are fine if you're running PM guides, and don't put a ton of miles on you're car. If you're running bronze guides with stock rockers, with a .600ish" lift, 225° duration cam, expect valve guide life of 20,000-30,000 miles tops." — American Heritage (30,000 miles) (source)

Lessons Learned

⚠️ "That didn't work so I cut two more pieces off the other end of what was left of the shims at the left and that didn't help either. At that point I had two full shims and four of the little ones under the bottom hinge trying to get the bottom of the door out." — mccarley (source)

⚠️ "I tried using the two shims at the right at one end of the hinge to try to force the bottom back of the door out. That didn't work so I cut two more pieces off the other end of what was left of the shims at the left and that didn't help either." — mccarley (source)

Pro Tips from Owners

💡 "They were flying stop drills until we could get them in for proper repairs. Funny thing is on the brake rotor front, once the masses started saying that you should never run drilled rotors I have intentionally run drilled rotors on nearly everything I own for the last 20 years." — the_merv (source)

💡 "Funny thing is on the brake rotor front, once the masses started saying that you should never run drilled rotors I have intentionally run drilled rotors on nearly everything I own for the last 20 years." — the_merv (source)

Real Repair Costs

"I ended up replacing everything including M/C for under $700. Aesthetically I like a wheel opening filled with brake, small rotors on large wheels just looks goofy to me." — cdee63 (source)

FAQ

Q: How long does it take to fix a wheel well liner?

A: Replacing a wheel well liner can typically be done in 1-2 hours if you're doing it yourself. A professional mechanic can usually complete the job in a similar timeframe.

Q: Can I drive with a damaged wheel well liner?

A: While you can technically drive with a damaged wheel well liner, it's not recommended. A damaged liner can allow debris to enter the wheel well and potentially damage other components, such as the suspension or brakes.

Q: Is this a common issue on the 2020 Chevrolet Corvette?

A: While not the most prevalent issue, wheel well problems are not uncommon, especially in areas with harsh weather conditions or rough roads. Regular inspection and maintenance can help prevent these issues.

Q: DIY vs mechanic - what's recommended?

A: Replacing a wheel well liner is a relatively straightforward repair that many owners can do themselves. However, if you're not comfortable working on your vehicle or if you encounter any difficulties during the repair process, it's best to seek assistance from a qualified mechanic. Some owners have noted the importance of proper tools and a lift for such work. As one owner stated, reflecting on lift options: "I really wanted a four post lift, but with 8’ high ceilings in the garage it would not work. Plus with a two car garage the garage door opener hangs down to about 7’ so that totally makes a four post impossible." (OldCarBum) Choosing the right approach depends on your skillset and available equipment.