Introduction
Subaru’s 2022 WRX model is engineered for performance and durability, and its factory OEM mud flaps are a critical component in protecting the vehicle’s exterior from environmental hazards. These splash guards are designed to resist damage from mud, snow, water, gravel, and road debris while maintaining a precise fit and aesthetic integration with the vehicle’s body lines. The installation process, as outlined in official SUBARU technical documentation, involves specific tools, safety precautions, and torque specifications that ensure proper fitment and long-term reliability.
This article provides a detailed breakdown of the technical specifications, installation instructions, and key features of the 2022 Subaru WRX OEM mud flaps. Drawing exclusively from official installation manuals, product descriptions, and technical guides, it serves as a comprehensive resource for automotive technicians, DIY enthusiasts, and Subaru owners seeking to understand or perform the installation of these components.
Technical Specifications and Materials
The 2022 Subaru WRX OEM mud flaps are manufactured using a combination of PP (polypropylene) and TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) materials. These materials are selected for their sturdiness, flexibility, resistance to cracking, and anti-corrosion properties, ensuring that the mud flaps perform reliably in harsh weather and road conditions.
The following specifications are consistent across all provided documentation:
- Package Type: Box packaging
- Material: PP + TPE
- Color: Black
- Injection Style: OE Replacement Molded
- Installation Type: Front & Rear – Pre-Drilled (Direct-Fit)
- Number of Pieces in One Set: 4 (two for the front, two for the rear)
These specifications indicate that the mud flaps are designed as direct replacements for the factory-installed units, requiring no modification during installation. The black color ensures aesthetic consistency with the vehicle's factory design.
Installation Overview
Installation of the 2022 Subaru WRX OEM mud flaps is a task that requires attention to detail and adherence to specified torque values and installation procedures. The process involves both front and rear splash guards, and each must be installed in a manner that ensures no rattling, no significant gaps, and secure attachment to the vehicle.
Tools Required
According to the SUBARU Installation Manual (Genuine Part Number: J101 0VC531 for front splash guards and J101 0VC534 for rear splash guards), the following tools are required for proper installation:
- Waste cloth
- Neutral detergent or cleaning detergent (e.g., IPA or nonane)
- Masking tape
- Clip remover
- Flathead screwdriver
- Phillips screwdriver
These tools are necessary for surface preparation, securing the mud flaps during installation, and ensuring all fasteners are properly torqued to factory specifications.
Pre-Installation Precautions
Before beginning the installation, several safety and preparation steps must be followed:
- Park the vehicle on a level surface and apply the parking brake securely.
- Turn the steering wheel fully to the left (for left-side installation) or fully to the right (for right-side installation) to gain access to the installation points.
- Clean the installation surface thoroughly using a neutral detergent or cleaning agent. This ensures that the double-sided tape and bonding agents adhere correctly.
- Avoid installing the mud flaps after body coating has been applied, or if installation is performed after coating, the coating must be removed from the area where the double-sided tape will be applied.
- Avoid damaging the vehicle’s body during installation by using tools carefully and ensuring that clips, screws, and fasteners are not over-tightened or improperly applied.
Failure to follow these precautions may result in improper adhesion, gaps, rattling, or even damage to the vehicle's bodywork or the splash guard itself.
Front Aero Splash Guard Installation
The front aero splash guard is part number J101 0VC531 and is installed using a combination of resin clips, speed nuts, tapping screws, and double-sided tape. The installation process is outlined in the official SUBARU manual and includes the following steps:
Components and Quantities
- Front aero splash guard (RH) – 1
- Front aero splash guard (LH) – 1
- Speed nut – 2
- Resin clip (small with a cross head) – 2
- Tapping screw – 2
- Washer (small) – 2
- Label – 1
Installation Procedure
- Prepare the Surface: Clean the area where the splash guard will be attached using a neutral detergent and a waste cloth. Dry the surface thoroughly.
- Peel the Masking Tape: If the installation surface has masking tape applied, peel it off carefully after the work is completed.
- Install the Left Side First: As per the manual, the installation is described for the left side of the vehicle. The right side is symmetrical and follows the same steps.
- Align and Secure Clips: Insert the resin clips into their designated holes. Ensure they are fully engaged and seated.
- Apply Double-Sided Tape: Apply the double-sided tape to the mounting points as specified. Ensure the tape is clean and free of debris.
- Secure with Screws and Nuts: Tighten the tapping screws and speed nuts using a Phillips screwdriver. The torque specification for the bolts is 1.5 ± 0.2 N • m (15 ± 2 kgf-cm). Exceeding this torque may lead to deformation of the component or fastener.
- Final Inspection: After installation, inspect for no rattling, no significant gaps, and secure engagement of clips and tape.
These steps ensure that the front aero splash guard is installed correctly and functions as intended.
Rear Aero Splash Guard Installation
The rear aero splash guard is part number J101 0VC534 and is also installed using a combination of resin clips, speed nuts, tapping screws, and double-sided tape. The installation process mirrors that of the front splash guard but includes additional components and slightly different fastening arrangements.
Components and Quantities
- Rear aero splash guard (RH) – 1
- Rear aero splash guard (LH) – 1
- Speed nut – 2
- Resin clip – 2
- Tapping screw – 2
- Metal clip – 2
- Washer – 2
- Label – 1
Installation Procedure
- Surface Preparation: Clean and dry the rear installation area using a neutral detergent and waste cloth.
- Steering Wheel Position: Turn the steering wheel fully to the left or right to access the installation points.
- Clip Engagement: Ensure that all resin and metal clips are fully seated in their designated positions.
- Apply Double-Sided Tape: Secure the double-sided tape to the mounting areas, ensuring that it is clean and properly applied.
- Fasten Components: Tighten the tapping screws and speed nuts using a Phillips screwdriver, adhering to the torque specification of 1.5 ± 0.2 N • m (15 ± 2 kgf-cm).
- Post-Installation Inspection: Check that the rear splash guard is aligned, that there is no rattling, and that all components are securely fastened.
Post-Installation Inspection and Quality Assurance
After completing the installation of both front and rear aero splash guards, it is essential to perform a final inspection to ensure the installation meets the required standards. According to the official SUBARU manual:
- No Rattling: The installed splash guard should not produce any rattling or vibration-related noise.
- No Significant Gaps or Separation: The splash guard should adhere to the vehicle’s body with 0.5 mm or less of gap after bonding.
- Clip Engagement: All clips must be fully engaged and seated in their respective positions.
- Tightening Verification: All bolts and fasteners must be tightened to the specified torque of 1.5 ± 0.2 N • m (15 ± 2 kgf-cm) to prevent over-tightening or deformation.
- Surface Cleanliness: If the surface of the guard or vehicle is soiled during installation, it must be wiped clean before completing the process.
These inspection steps are crucial for ensuring that the splash guard performs its intended function over time and remains securely fastened during normal driving conditions.
Warranty and Quality Assurance
The A-Premium OEM splash guard kit, which includes the 2022 WRX splash guards, is backed by a one-year unlimited-mileage warranty. This warranty is designed to cover defects in materials or workmanship and reflects the brand’s commitment to product quality and durability.
The warranty period begins from the date of purchase and is valid for all U.S. markets. It is important to note that the warranty does not cover:
- Damage caused by improper installation
- Modifications made to the splash guard or vehicle
- Normal wear and tear due to environmental exposure
This warranty provides peace of mind to consumers and ensures that the product will perform as expected under normal driving conditions.
Compatibility and Fitment
The OEM splash guard kits are explicitly compatible with the 2022 and 2023 model years of the Subaru WRX, as well as other models such as the Forester, Outback, and Crosstrek (depending on the version). The documentation confirms that the splash guards are OE Replacement Molded, meaning they are designed to fit the vehicle as intended by the manufacturer.
This compatibility is further reinforced by the pre-drilled design, which allows for direct-fit installation without the need for additional drilling or modifications. This ensures a seamless fit and reduces the risk of installation errors or misalignment.
Benefits of OEM Splash Guards
The OEM splash guards offer several benefits that make them a preferred choice for 2022 Subaru WRX owners:
- Protection Against Environmental Damage: The splash guards protect the vehicle from mud, water, gravel, ice, dirt, rocks, and road salt, reducing the need for frequent cleaning and painting.
- Anti-Corrosion and Crack Resistance: The PP + TPE construction ensures that the splash guards resist corrosion and cracking, even in extreme weather conditions.
- OE Fit and Finish: The splash guards are molded to match the factory design, ensuring aesthetics and integration with the vehicle's body lines.
- Durability and Longevity: The splash guards are designed to withstand hot and cold weather and resist surface damage from road debris, extending the life of the vehicle.
- Warranty Coverage: The one-year unlimited-mileage warranty provides additional assurance of product quality and reliability.
These benefits collectively contribute to the value and effectiveness of the OEM splash guard kit, making it a worthwhile investment for Subaru WRX owners.
Installation Timing and Best Practices
The installation of splash guards is best performed before the application of body coating or paint. If the vehicle has already been coated, the coating must be removed from the areas where the splash guards will be attached to ensure proper adhesion of the double-sided tape.
Additionally, the installation should be carried out on a clean, dry surface, and all tools should be used with care to avoid damaging the vehicle or the components. Proper attention to torque specifications and clip engagement is essential for ensuring a secure and long-lasting fit.
For DIY users, the installation process is considered moderate in difficulty, requiring basic hand tools and a steady hand. However, due to the precision required in torque settings and clip alignment, it is recommended that the installation be performed by a qualified technician or by an experienced DIY enthusiast.
Conclusion
The 2022 Subaru WRX OEM mud flaps are an essential component in protecting the vehicle from environmental damage while maintaining a factory-finished appearance. The installation process, as detailed in official SUBARU manuals, involves specific tools, torque specifications, and installation precautions to ensure proper fit and function.
From material composition to installation procedures, these splash guards are designed to meet the rigorous demands of daily driving and extreme weather conditions. The use of PP + TPE materials, pre-drilled direct-fit design, and OE molded construction ensures that the splash guards offer both aesthetic integration and long-term durability.
For Subaru WRX owners, installing OEM splash guards is a proactive measure to extend the life of the vehicle’s exterior, reduce maintenance costs, and enhance overall driving experience. Whether installed by a professional technician or a DIY enthusiast, the splash guards must be fitted with care and attention to detail to achieve optimal performance and longevity.