It’s risky to open and close your car doors in a parking lot, especially when it’s jam-packed full of cars! Though dents and scratches on a car door tend to be small, accidentally hitting the car parked next to you can end up costing quite a lot to repair.
But don’t worry! Car door edge guards are an excellent feature to add to your vehicle to protect yours and your neighbor’s car from dings or scrapes. Here’s everything you need to know.
Factors to Consider When Buying Car Door Edge Guards
In the following guide, you’ll learn more about what to consider when purchasing car door edge guards and the different types of products out there for you to choose from.
Types of Car Door Edge Guards
Car door edge guides come in two main varieties: adhesive and cling. Here’s a little more about each.
Adhesive
These types of edge guards are applied to your car doors with a long-lasting, powerful tape. They adhere to car doors like a sticker would, making them generally easy and straightforward to install.
The material typically comes packaged as a roll that you can then cut to fit the length of your vehicle’s doors. It can also look like a single piece of plastic or soft bumper material.
Cling
Cling edge guards are made of thick, tough rubber material that hugs tightly to the sides of your car doors. The rubber is fairly flexible, so it can stretch easily around any corners or curves along the door’s edges. They can be made of metal or plastic, and they have small grooves that fit easily onto car doors for a secure fit.
Key Considerations When Shopping for Car Door Edge Guards
Now you know the different types of guards, here are the specific criteria you’ll want to keep in mind when evaluating products from our review list.
Length & Size
To ensure that there is minimal waste, it is important that you know how much you need to buy for your vehicle. Edge guards can measure as short as a couple of feet or as long as 30+ feet.
There are also options to buy car door edge guards as a single strip to minimize the amount of effort you need to put into installing them on your car. All you need to do is determine whether or not you want to protect just the driver’s side door of your vehicle or if you want to protect all of your doors.
Compatibility
When looking over your choices, it is also important for you to check that it is compatible with your specific type of vehicle. There are types of car door edge guards that will not work on certain types of trucks, cars, or SUVs because of the model’s specific door design.
Thoroughly look over the dimensions and sizes of the doors for your specific make and model. This information can be found in the owner’s manual for your car. You can match the information you find with the type(s) of car door edge guards you’re considering purchasing. We also highlight compatibility in each of our product reviews.
Material
Quality door guards will be made of either plastic or rubber material so that they can best absorb impacts. If you’re feeling iffy about plastic car door edge guards, don’t fret. Though they may look breakable, this material is actually designed to handle being hit with lots of pressure, it’s the same type of plastic that many front and rear car bumpers are made of.
Car door edge guards that are made with rubber have the advantage of being more pliable than plastic. This means that it can bounce more easily off of a neighboring car door without impacting it too heavily.
Style
This one’s up to you and your specific tastes. Door guards, however subtle in color they are, will alter the look of your car. So if you don’t want the look to be too outlandish, black or clear trims may be your best choice. However, if you want to add a little splash of color, there are some car door edge guards that will offer a variety of color options.
With these factors in mind, here are the best car door edge products available.
Top 8 Best Car Door Edge Guards 2020
1. Best Overall Car Door Edge Guards: MATCC Car Door Edge Guards
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Length: 4m or 10m
- Material: Rubber/Vinyl
- Type: Cling
- Color: Black
Compatible Vehicles
The MATCC edge guards are compatible with most vehicles because they can be cut to fit the exact size of your car doors. Just pay close attention to the length you get with a single purchase, as you may need to buy multiple packs. If so, you may prefer to opt for the MATCC 10m option.
Other Noteworthy Features
Not only are these edge guards waterproof, but they also reduce noise and are corrosion- and high-temperature resistant. They are great insulators, effectively controlling the temperature inside your car, so you don’t have to constantly fiddle with the AC. The trim also keeps water, dust and/or dirt from getting into your car through the gaps between the door and the car frame.
Installation
MATCC car door edge guards are easy to install, just press the rubber material to the edge of the door, and it easily slides into place! If there is extra material hanging off the edge, simply trim it off with a knife or a pair of scissors and mold the ends to the door. People have also used them on rooftop windows and as boating edging!
PRO-TIP: there is exposed metal at the ends of this material, and it may hurt your fingers if you’re not careful during installation. You might also find it too difficult to cut with a regular pair of scissors, so use something stronger (like wire cutters) to do the job.
Customer Service Info
Your purchase comes with a 100%, risk-free warranty for one full year. Simply contact the seller if you have any issues with the product, and they will respond to you within 24 hours during the workweek.
Pros
- Compatible with most vehicles
- Waterproof, noise-reducing, and corrosion/high-temperature resistant
- Easy to install
- Can be used on sunroofs and even as boating edging
- 100%, risk-free warranty for one year
Cons
- Ends have exposed metal that can hurt fingers during installation
- Regular scissors may not cut through material properly
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Length: 4.8 or 9.7m
- Material: Rubber
- Type: Cling
- Colors: White or Black
Compatible Vehicles
This will not fit every vehicle, especially ones that already have thick rubber strips in their car door designs. Instead, they work best on cars that have wide door gaps.
The Tesla X, Tesla Y, Tesla 3, VW Passat, Ford Edge, BMW X3, 2018 BMW X5, Chevy Tahoe/Camaro, GMC Denali, 2019/2020 Silverado, Volvo S60L, 2016 CRV, 2017 Camry, 2019 Niro, 2020 Mazda 3 and Firebird vehicles are some examples of non-compatible vehicles.
Other Noteworthy Features
Winunite edge guards are made of a thick strand of rubberized material that is designed to protect your car doors from scratches, paint chips, and rust. Like the MATCC car door edge guards, these are noise canceling. You may need to close your doors with a little more oomph because of its thick design, though.
Installation
These edge guards bend easily into the contours of your doors. They can be installed on any of your car doors as well as on back hatch doors, trunk edges, hoods, and tailgates. Some have even installed them on the edges of their aluminum boat.
Be sure to pull out the exposed end clips at either side of the material with a pair of scissors. It is recommended that you tap it with a rubber mallet to ensure a snug fit.
Customer Service Info
With your purchase comes lifetime service support. If you have any problems with the product, you can contact customer service, and they’ll assist you in any way they can.
Pros
- Two color and size options
- Made with thick, noise-canceling rubber material
- Can install on car doors, hatches, trunks, hoods, and tailgates
- Purchase comes with lifetime service support
- Can return for a full refund
Cons
- May need to use more force to close doors properly
- Not compatible with vehicles that already have thick, rubber strips in their design
3. Best UV Resistance: Eytool Car Door Edge Guards
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Length: 5m
- Material: Rubber
- Type: Cling w/ adhesive properties
- Colors: Black, White, Clear
Compatible Vehicles
If you drive a car with door thickness that is more than 2mm, this is not the product for you. It is especially important for you to check your vehicle’s door edge thickness if you drive a truck or a van, as this brand may be incompatible with larger vehicles.
Other Noteworthy Features
Eytool Car Door Edge Guards are made with a heavy-duty urethane that stands up well to washing and waxing. In addition to this, it is waterproof, anti-aging, UV-resistant, and does not tend to stain or turn yellow over time.
If you purchase the clear version, you may find that the seal looks like an iridescent purple when viewed from different angles, which may stand out more on certain car colors than others.
Installation
This car door edge guard installs with direct placement. Just be sure that you install the edge guard and trim to the length of your car door before you remove the protective strip for the adhesive. If this is not done properly, the adhesive will not stick down very well, and it may wrinkle around the edges.
Pros
- Three color options: black, white, and clear
- Waterproof, anti-aging and UV-resistant
- Stands up well to washing and waxing
Cons
- Not compatible with car door thicknesses exceeding 2mm
- May wrinkle at the edges or come off if not installed properly
4. Best Budget Car Door Edge Guards: 3M Door Edge Protection Film
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Length: 3m
- Material: Tape
- Type: Adhesive
- Color: Clear
Compatible Vehicles
This adhesive will work on most vehicles. It is perfect for you if you drive a 2-door sedan.
Other Noteworthy Features
3M Door Edge is made from the same material the professionals use to install adhesive edge guards at car dealerships. They are more or less invisible to the eye, and the clear coating is stain-resistant.
Once they are applied, you won’t have to do anything more to care for them. Just be sure to install them properly.
Installation
You won’t need any tools to install this. Just make sure to thoroughly clean the outside and inside edges of your door (as well as your hands) before installing. Otherwise, you may end up with dirt and/or finger marks on the tape. If that happens, you’ll have to start over with a new pack.
The tape can be easily removed by picking up one of its corners and pulling it firmly off at a 90-degree angle.
Pros
- Compatible with most vehicles
- Made from the same material used by professionals
- Clear coating is stain-resistant and virtually invisible to the eye
- No tools needed for installation
Cons
- You only get one shot to install them properly: everything must be clean!
5. Most Flexible: Besteek Car Door Edge Guards
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Length: 10m
- Material: Rubber
- Type: Cling w/ adhesive properties
- Color: Black
Compatible Vehicles
These edge guards work best for door edges that are up to 2mm in thickness. Please check your owner’s manual if you drive a truck or van as the Besteek car door edge guards may not be compatible with the design of larger vehicles.
Other Noteworthy Features
Besteek protects your car from dents, chipping paint, and rust. The flexible molding means it will easily hug every contour of your car door. In addition to this, the large length of material you get with your purchase means that you will most likely be able to cover the edges of your entire cab!
Installation
You can install this edge guard without any tools. The U-channel design will easily fit over the edge of your car doors. Adding to this, the double-sided adhesive tape ensures that the fitting is secure; just make sure that you put the sticky part of the strip on the inside of the door edge. It is just as easy to remove should you wish.
Please be aware that the glue will wear over time, so after approximately one year of use, you will need to replace it.
Customer Service Info
You can get a full refund or replacement if you are not 100% satisfied with this product.
Pros
- Flexible molding and U-channel design ensures a snug fit
- Large length of material provided to cover all car doors (for many vehicles)
- Installation is possible without using tools
- Can get a full refund or replacement if not 100% satisfied
Cons
- Will wear down after about 1 year
6. Most Durable Edge Guards: Strongman U-Shape Trim Protector & Guard Strip
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Length: 5m
- Material: Rubber
- Type: Cling
- Color: Black
Compatible Vehicles
Strongman is made to universally fit virtually any vehicle. Just be sure to have the right tools to cut it down to the appropriate size. If you are unsure about whether or not it will fit with your car door edges, make sure to check your owner’s manual before purchasing.
Other Noteworthy Features
Made with a high concentration of rubber and with 37% EPDM means that it will last a very long time. The U-shaped design is made to stand up against harsh weather conditions. Adding to this, Strongman edge guards are fully waterproof.
Installation
The steel spring clips along the inner part of the edge guards work a bit like u-shaped wire staples, ensuring a tight fit. However, there is a chance that the metal grips may leave a permanent mark on the paint. To avoid this, make sure to look over the cut ends of the strips you prepare for each door before installing it. If there are no steel clips exposed, you’re good to go!
You might also find it difficult to cut with normal scissors. A 6” diagonal cutter or wire cutters may work better.
Customer Service Info
Strongman products have a lifetime guarantee. You can return this product for a full refund if you are not happy with your purchase.
Pros
- Universal fit means it will install on most vehicles
- High rubber concentration and 37% EPDM ensures it is long-lasting
- Fully waterproof
Cons
- Steel spring clips can damage paint if left exposed during installation
7. Most Stylish: Status High Glossy Slim Door Edge Guards
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Length: Front Guards (9.5 x 2.3cm); Back Guards (8.2 x 2.0cm)
- Material: Metal
- Type: Adhesive
- Colors: Black, Silver, White or Metallic Silver
Compatible Vehicles
These bumper guards are super durable and will fit on any vehicle.
Other Noteworthy Features
These do not cover the entire length of your car door. You get two front door and two rear door protector bumper guards with your purchase. Since they are fairly thick, they work well to stop minor dings that thinner guards may not.
Be aware that they are meant to protect your car from damage, so you will still need to open your doors with caution to ensure that you don’t damage any cars you park next to.
Installation
All you need to do is attach the door guards to the desired place on your car door’s edge with the 3M auto tape provided. Keep your car from getting wet for 24 hours after installation. It is possible to remove them, but you will need to do so with care so as not to peel the paint.
Pros
- Made to fit all vehicles
- Comes with 2 front and 2 rear door guards
- 3M auto tape provided for installation
Cons
- Keeps only your car door safe from dings and scratches
8. EJ’s Super Car Door Edge Guards
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Length: 4.8m
- Material: Plastic
- Type: Cling w/ adhesive properties
- Color: Clear
Compatible Vehicles
Like the Strongman U-Shape Trim Protector & Guard Strip, this is made to fit most vehicles. Just be sure to check your car’s specific dimensions in your owner’s manual before purchasing.
Other Noteworthy Features
The plastic u-shape material is super durable, protected from UV rays, and easily hugs the contours of your car doors. This ensures that your edge guards will last a long time without peeling, falling off, or damaging your paint.
It is important to note that the plastic may change color slightly after being exposed to rainfall, but that won’t negatively affect its durability. It is also smaller than other comparable products, so they may not protect your car as effectively as other brands.
Installation
To ensure that it adheres correctly to your car, you need to thoroughly clean the car door edges with soap and water and wait for it to fully dry before installing.
Cut the material to the length you need. Pull a small part of the adhesive backing off one edge of the material. As you peel the adhesive backing off the inside of the edge guard, press the u-shape firmly into the car door. Some bubbles may form under the tape when you’re installing it. You can pop them with a needle to help the edge guard adhere more securely to the door.
Pros
- Made to fit most vehicles
- Material is UV protected and super durable
- Clear color makes it invisible to the eye
Cons
- Plastic may discolor after rain
- Smaller than other comparable brands
Guide to Buying the Best Car Door Edge Guards
Now you’re familiar with the best car door edge guards available, here’s our detailed guide, with more to consider, installation help, and answers to the most frequently asked questions.
Important Factors to Consider in Car Door Edge Guards
Make sure to properly measure the length of material you’ll need to ensure that you buy the right amount. This will depend on whether you only want to protect the driver’s side door or if you want to protect all of your vehicle’s doors. You’ll also need to make sure that the product you choose is compatible with your vehicle as certain car door edge guards may not universally fit all car types.
The best door guards will be made of either plastic or rubber because they absorb the pressure of impacts the best. For a more subtle look, choose car door edge guards that are black or clear in color.
Benefits of Using Car Door Edge Guards
Protects Your Car
Car door edge guards effectively prevent and/or reduce accidental door dents and scratches to your vehicle. This means that you won’t have to break the bank to repair small (but very costly) damages to your car.
Protects Neighboring Cars
We’ve all been there: you’re in a crowded parking lot and trying to get out of your car without hitting the vehicle next to you. Your hand may slip, or maybe there’s a sudden gust of wind that sends your car door flying into the car next to you.
If you have car door edge guards installed, it greatly reduces the chances that any marks, scratches, or scuff marks are left behind, making getting in and out of your car less stressful.
Increases Resale Value
When you own a car, you need to take good care of it in case you want to sell it in the future. It’s not just about keeping your engine intact; it’s also about ensuring that the interior and exterior of your car look good.
Damaged doors can lead to rusting, and fixing dents and scratches in the paint can cost a lot of money. Door guards not only reduce or prevent the chances of your car doors getting damaged, but they also give your car a sleek, finished look that potential buyers may like.
Types of Car Door Edge Guards to Choose From
You have the choice between adhesive or cling car door edge guards. Adhesive guards install on your vehicle like double-sided tape or a sticker, making them generally easier and more straightforward to install. They may come as a roll that can be cut to size or as a single piece of plastic or soft bumper material.
Cling guards, on the other hand, can be made of thick rubber material, metal, or plastic. They will have small grooves that snug around the edges of your car door for a secure fit.
How to Install Car Door Edge Guards
In addition to the installation advice that is given within our review list, here are some extra installation tips for both types of edge guards.
Watch this video to see how to install adhesive edge guards or this video to see how to install cling edge guards.
Additional Installation Tips
- You may want to use a rubber mallet to gently tap cling edge guards to ensure they fit snugly into place.
- Leaving the rubber or plastic material to sit in the heat for a few minutes might help it to be more stretchy and flexible, ensuring that the edge guard material will mold more easily to your car.
- If your scissors can’t cut through the edge guard material, use wire cutters or industrial-strength scissors instead.
Car Door Edge Guards: Frequently Asked Questions
Are Car Door Edge Guards Strong Enough to Prevent All Dents and Scratches?
Car door edge guards will certainly reduce the amount of damage caused when your door impacts other doors or stationary objects. They are designed to handle the stress of normal, everyday wear and tear. However, it may not prevent all kinds of damage. Extremely forceful collisions may still result in damage to your car door.
Will Car Door Edges Ruin the Paint Job Around My Car Door?
If the guards are wrapped around the edges of the car door, they most likely won’t ruin the paint. They function to protect the paint job and prevent chipping and scratches from happening. You can even use them to cover up scratches that are already there.
Will the Weather Damage Them?
Rain can cause discoloration in plastic edge guards. However, most types of car door edge guards are relatively safe from weather-related damage. If you properly install them on your vehicle, they should maintain their original look.
Is It Possible to Remove Edge Guards From My Vehicle?
It is possible. Simply peel them off with your fingers and use soap and water to clean off any tape residue. If you remove them carefully enough, you might be able to reuse the edge guards on another vehicle if you like.
Can I Use Wax Over Car Door Edge Guards?
You absolutely can! However, please be aware that some wax may build up over time along the edges of the door guards. You can easily remove this film when your car is completely dry with a microfiber cloth. Don’t use waxes that have dyes, and don’t use waxes that are not recommended for urethanes as these can cause major damage to your car door edge guards.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know more about what features to consider when choosing car door edge guards, you’ll be sure to find the best one for you!
Source: Tools - autoquarterly.com
