Best Skid Plates for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need
Published: February 7th, 2024
Last Updated: June 5th, 2024

šŸ›”ļøWhen you're hitting the trails, protecting your vehicleā€™s vital parts is pretty essential. One key upgrade you could consider as an off-roader is a reliable skid plate.

These are basically shields that guard crucial components like the oil pan, transmission, and fuel tank from damage as you tackle rough terrains. To help you find the perfect skid plate for your ride and adventure style, weā€™ve carefully checked out and picked the best options for 2024.

Here are our top recommendations to keep your vehicle safe and your off-road trips uninterrupted.

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Overall Best: Rugged Ridge Gas Tank Skid Plate

Rugged Ridge | Skid Plate, Gas Tank | 18003.21 | Fits 1987-1995 Jeep Wrangler YJ,Black

Our top choice for 2024 is the Rugged Ridge Gas Tank Skid Plate, offering superb protection for one of your vehicle's most critical componentsā€”the fuel tank. This skid plate stands out due to its robust, powder-coated steel construction and rust-resistant E-Coating, ensuring durability even under harsh trail conditions. The user-friendly, bolt-on installation uses existing frame mounting points, making it a seamless upgrade from the factory skid plate. With its 5-year warranty, you can have confidence in its longevity and performance.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$443.43 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Rugged Ridge Gas Tank Skid Plate for Jeep Wrangler YJ (1987-1995)? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How thick is the Rugged Ridge 18003.21 gas tank skid plate?
The Rugged Ridge 18003.21 gas tank skid plate, made for [1987-1995 Jeep Wrangler YJ](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Djeep%2Bwrangler%2BYJ%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) models, is a solid 3/16 inch thick steel plate. This thickness should give you peace of mind when taking your Jeep off-road, as it's strong enough to handle the challenges that come with rough terrains. Whatā€™s cool is that it also has a powder-coated, rust-resistant E-Coating, which just means it'll last longer without rusting out. If you're hitting the trails a lot, this feature can be a real savior for your fuel tank. From our research, putting this skid plate on is pretty straightforward. It's designed to bolt right on using your Jeep's existing mounting points. But, it's a bit on the heavy side, so it wouldn't hurt to have a buddy help out during the install. Some folks have mentioned they needed to tweak things a bit to get a perfect fit, like maybe elongating strap channels or drilling a hole or two. That's somewhat typical for Jeep mods, so just expect a bit of DIY might be in order. So, if you're thinking about getting a new or upgraded skid plate for your YJ, this one from Rugged Ridge seems like a solid bet. It's tough and does its job well without making you jump through too many hoops during installation.
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Does the Rugged Ridge 18003.21 skid plate fit 1987-1995 Jeep Wrangler YJ without modifications?
If you're checking out the Rugged Ridge 18003.21 Skid Plate for your 1987-1995 Jeep Wrangler YJ, you're probably wondering if it'll fit without needing any modifications. From what we've gathered, here's the scoop: The manufacturer says this skid plate is built for easy bolt-on installation using the existing mounts on your Jeep's frame. So, you shouldn't have to worry about doing anything major to get it on there, which is great if you're replacing an old one or dealing with some rust issues. This skid plate is made from 3/16-inch thick steel, which is pretty sturdy. Plus, it has a powder coat and rust-resistant E-Coating for added durability, which is handy for protecting your fuel tank from rough off-road conditions. Based on our research, most people found the installation straightforward, just like the manufacturer claims. But a few folks did hit some snags, like short straps on older Jeep models. They fixed this by adjusting the strap channels, so it's not too big of a deal. One thing to keep in mind is the weight. The plate is hefty, so having someone there to help or using a jack is a good idea. Itā€™s a bit much to handle alone unless you're up for a workout! Overall, once it's on, the feedback has been really positive about how well it fits and protects. Our research suggests it's durable for those tough trails. So, while it's designed to fit without major tweaks, just watch out for the strap issue and the weight. These are manageable, and you'll have a skid plate that really guards your Jeep's underside when you're off on your adventures.
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How heavy is the Rugged Ridge 18003.21 gas tank skid plate?
If you're thinking about getting the Rugged Ridge 18003.21 gas tank skid plate for your [1987-1995 Jeep Wrangler YJ](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DJeep%2BWrangler%2BYJ%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), you might be curious about its weight. Based on our data, this skid plate weighs about 45 pounds. It's made from 3/16 inch thick steel, so that's where the weight comes fromā€”it's built to be sturdy. The skid plate uses the existing frame mounting locations, which should make the bolt-on installation easierā€”no need for extra drilling. However, according to our research, you might need to make a few tweaks, like adjusting the strap channels a bit, just to get everything to fit perfectly. This seems to vary based on individual vehicles. It's also got a solid build, with rust-resistant E-Coating and a black powder coat finish, which should hold up well if you're hitting the trails often. According to our research, it does a good job of protecting the gas tank from rocks, branches, and other stuff you might run into off-road. People who have used this skid plate usually have good things to say. They often mention that it's much more durable than the stock version and offers better protection for the gas tank. That's a big plus if you're often off-road. Just a heads-upā€”while installation usually isn't too difficult, aligning the mounting channels can be a bit tricky. So, it might help to check that everything is lined up before tightening it all down. A little extra preparation can save you some hassle later on.
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Runner-up: ARB Under Vehicle Protection Prado 120/150 W/O Kdss & FJC (5421100)

ARB 5421100 Uvp Set Prado 120/150 W/O

If you need a dependable alternative, the ARB Under Vehicle Protection Prado skid plate is a fantastic runner-up. Specifically designed for vehicles such as the Toyota Prado, this skid plate is built to withstand tough off-roading adventures. Its solid construction offers comprehensive undercarriage protection, making it an excellent choice for serious off-road enthusiasts. According to our research, users praise its superior build quality and performance on demanding trails.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$549.95 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the ARB Uvp Set Prado 120/150? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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Are the ARB 5421100 skid plates easy to install?
The ARB 5421100 skid plates are specifically designed for the [Toyota Prado](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dtoyota%2Bprado%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) and similar off-road vehicles. They're made to handle tough terrains and offer solid underbody protection. Now, in terms of installation, it might not be the easiest job. From what we've gathered, a few folks have run into alignment issues while fitting these on, which could be a bit of a head-scratcher. Some have mentioned needing to make additional adjustmentsā€”like adding spacers or tweaking the hardwareā€”to get everything lined up just right. Despite these hiccups, the skid plates are generally well-regarded for their durability and value. Even if it takes a bit more effort to install them correctly, many agree that they're a big step up from the factory versions. Some have successfully tackled the fitment issues using DIY solutions or by getting tips from online communities. Once you get past the installation, these skid plates are pretty solid and do a great job covering your vehicle from front to back. They're considered a good investment for those wanting thorough protection without having to buy multiple pieces. So, with a little patience and elbow grease, these can be a reliable pick for your off-road adventures.
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Does the ARB 5421100 Uvp Set fit a 5th gen Toyota 4Runner?
Yeah, the ARB 5421100 Uvp Set fits a 5th gen Toyota 4Runner. It's also compatible with other off-road vehicles like the [Toyota Prado 120/150](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dtoyota%2Bprado%2B120%2B150%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) and the [FJ Cruiser](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dfj%2Bcruiser%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). The set is made for tough underbody protection, which is great if you're hitting the trails often. From what the manufacturer says, the ARB skid plates are designed to be super durable, so they should handle some rough conditions. Our research backs this up, mentioning the plates are about twice as thick as the standard ones that come with the vehicle. This makes them a solid choice for general off-roading when you want a bit more protection. Just a heads-up: if you're really into extreme rock crawling, these might not be enough on their own. Some folks found they needed extra spacers to get a perfect fit, especially if they've made mods like a differential drop. Installation can be a bit tricky too. A lot of people found the instructions a bit unclear, so you might need some help or extra tools when installing. While most feedback is positive about the protection these plates offer, there are a few things to watch out for. Some mentioned the powder coating scratches kind of easily and that the nuts and bolts that come with it could be better. A few have upgraded to stronger mounting hardware for extra security. Overall, the ARB 5421100 Uvp Set is a popular pick among off-road fans. It seems to offer good protection against underbody damage while off the pavement, which can help keep your vehicle in good shape. If you're thinking about getting these for your 5th gen 4Runner, it sounds like a worthwhile upgrade. Just make sure you have the right hardware and maybe another pair of hands to help with the install.
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How thick are the ARB 5421100 Uvp Set Prado 120/150 W/O skid plates?
The ARB 5421100 Uvp Set Prado 120/150 skid plates are known for being thicker and tougher than the standard underbody protection you usually get from the factory. According to the manufacturer and some of our data, they're about twice as thick as typical OEM parts, which means they're better at handling the bumps and bruises of off-road driving. That being said, this added thickness can make the install a bit challenging. Our research shows that because these skid plates are designed to fit various vehicle models, you might need to make some adjustmentsā€”like using extra spacers or doing some retrofittingā€”to get them to fit just right. Also, the installation instructions aren't the clearest, so if you're not too comfortable with DIY installs, you might want to consider getting some help from a professional. Once you get them on, though, they really do their job well, handling off-road adventures with ease. Just a heads-up: some folks have mentioned that the powder coating might scratch easily, and the nuts and bolts provided might not always fit perfectly, so having some spares might save you a trip to the store. In short, if you're looking for hardcore underbody protection and don't mind a potentially tricky install, the ARB 5421100 skid plates could be a great pick. A little prep ahead of time can make sure they work perfectly for your adventures.
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Budget Pick: LAFORMO TRD Pro Front Skid Plate Protection for Tacoma Off Road

LAFORMO TRD Pro Front Skid Plate Protection Compatible with Tacoma Off Road 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021# PTR60-35190 whole

Looking for budget-friendly protection? The LAFORMO TRD Pro Front Skid Plate is your go-to option. Designed for the Tacoma, it offers substantial protection crafted from durable materials at an accessible price point. This skid plate is ideal for light off-road conditions and everyday driving, ensuring you don't have to compromise on safety while sticking to a budget. Perfect for Tacoma owners looking to safeguard their vehicle without overspending.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$162.55 at Amazon

Best for Jeep Wrangler: Rough Country High Clearance Skid Plate for Jeep Wrangler TJ (1126)

Rough Country High Clearance Skid Plate for 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ - 1126

For Jeep Wrangler enthusiasts, the Rough Country High Clearance Skid Plate is a game-changer. Tailored specifically for the Jeep Wrangler TJ, this skid plate provides extensive protection while enhancing ground clearance, making it perfect for conquering challenging terrains. Its high-quality construction is built to withstand impacts with rocks and other obstacles, ensuring your vehicle's undercarriage remains well-protected during your off-road escapades.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$259.95 at Amazon

Best for Toyota 4Runner: LAFORMO Front Pro Skid Plate Replacement for Toyota 4Runner

The LAFORMO Front Pro Skid Plate is an excellent option for Toyota 4Runner owners seeking both style and substance. This skid plate offers exceptional protection for essential undercarriage components while maintaining a sleek aesthetic. It's designed to seamlessly blend with the vehicle's look, providing a practical yet stylish upgrade. Ideal for 4Runner drivers who want to protect their ride and look good doing it.

Available at Amazon
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