Pushbars, Grille Guards & Skid Plates

Does the underside scrape against rocks on the forest road, or does the front need to handle branches and brush on the trail? In this category we bring together pushbars, grille guards and skid plates that can protect the radiator, lights, oil pan, gearbox and differential on off-road vehicles, pickups and SUVs – for you who drive off the tarmac.

What do pushbars and skid plates protect?

A pushbar or brush and grille guard sits in front of the grille and lights and can take branches, brush and minor impacts at low speed. Under the vehicle, skid plates and underbody protection typically shield the oil pan, gearbox, transfer case and differential from rocks and edges. In this category you will find brands such as ARB, Westin, Wehrli, Cycra and Artec Industries.

How to choose the right protection

Look at more factors than just the plate thickness:

• Material and weight: steel is typically strong but heavy, while aluminium saves weight. Extra weight at the front can affect the suspension.
• Coverage and servicing: a plate that covers a lot can make oil changes harder unless it has service openings.
• Compatibility with other equipment: some parts require a specific bumper or suspension. For example, Addictive Desert Designs' Rock Fighter skid plate for the Ford Bronco must be used together with the Rock Fighter front bumper, and ARB's underbody protection for the Prado comes in several versions depending on the vehicle's suspension system.
• Electronics: cameras and fog lights may require a separate mounting kit, e.g. ARB's camera kit.

Installation, inspection and maintenance

Most parts typically bolt into existing points on the frame, but some require drilling or extra brackets – it depends on the product and the vehicle. Whether a pushbar is road legal also depends on the product and the vehicle, so check the approval, e.g. E-mark, for the specific part number before the vehicle inspection. After off-road driving you should retighten the bolts and rinse mud and salt out from behind the plates so rust does not take hold. If the protection needs to match a new front end, also see bumpers and accessories.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a skid plate and underbody protection?

The terms overlap. A skid plate typically covers a single area, e.g. the oil pan or differential, while underbody protection is often a set of plates covering larger parts of the vehicle. The product description shows which components are covered.

Can I drive on public roads with a pushbar?

It depends on the product and the vehicle. Front protection on road-going vehicles must meet pedestrian safety requirements, so check the approval, e.g. E-mark, for the specific part number before you fit it and take the vehicle for inspection.

Can I fit skid plates myself?

You typically can if you have a lift or secure axle stands and the right tools, as many plates bolt into existing holes. Some do, however, require drilling or rerouting wires, so read through the installation instructions first.

Does a pushbar affect sensors and cameras?

It can. The bar can block parking sensors, the front camera or the radar for cruise control. Check whether the product has space or brackets for them, or whether a separate mounting kit is available for your vehicle.