These are aftermarket or original equipment components designed to attach to the wheel wells of a specific model year of a full-size pickup truck. They extend outward from the body, covering the tire and wheel assembly more completely. For example, owners might install these to accommodate larger tires or to provide additional protection from road debris.
The addition of such parts can enhance a vehicle’s aesthetic appeal, lending a more aggressive or customized look. Functionally, they serve to minimize mud and road splash onto the vehicle’s body, reducing the potential for paint damage and corrosion. Historically, they evolved from simple mud flaps to become integrated design elements, reflecting both protective and stylistic considerations in automotive customization.