5 Reasons To Use a Brush Guard for Your Truck

Your truck’s grille is a weak point that can be damaged when driving off-road or in a minor collision. Find out how grille guards can protect your grille, prepare for off-road accessories and offer a stylish update to your rig. Learn more about adding a brush guard to your truck with these top five reasons.

What Is a Brush Guard?

A brush guard, also known as a grille guard, is a durable component made of tubes and plates of metal. Most are made with steel or aluminum, while some use other materials. The size and design may vary, but the basic functions remain the same.

Whether you choose a Westin HDX grille guard or a leading guard from another brand, these components are tailored to your truck. Be sure to shop for one that fits your make, model and year of vehicle for a secure fit and improved protection.

How a Grille Guard Can Prevent Damage

There are a number of situations where a grille guard can protect your truck from damage, serious or otherwise. Here are five great reasons to choose a grille guard for your truck:

Mounting space for additional fog and off-road lights

Compatible with winches, tow hooks and other off-road accessories

Improved style and rugged look

Protection from brush and minor collisions

Reduced damage from more severe impacts

Your truck’s grille can deflect some minor impacts, but typically isn’t going to stop an object from crashing into the engine compartment. A grille guard made of steel or aluminum tubing may become damaged in a head-on collision or other serious impacts, but can handle minor issues that occur on and off the road.

How To Compare Grille Guards

Explore the many different styles and materials available for brush guards. From Steelcraft grille guards to Westin alternatives, it pays to invest in a name-brand guard that’s designed for your vehicle and driving habits.

Check out the dimensions of the tubing your grille guard uses. Thinner tubing makes a lighter guard but may not protect your truck when you’re off-roading. Both steel and aluminum offer rugged protection but aluminum is less likely to become corroded. For those with a focus on off-roading, enhancing your vehicle’s durability with 4runner off road parts at RCI Offroad, including grille guards, ensures maximum protection and performance in the toughest terrains.

Common Brush Guard Styles

Compare these common styles of guards once you decide to invest in protection for the front of your truck. Your driving habits and your budget can help you determine the best option for your rig. Some are more streamlined and stylish, while others are designed for maximum protection:

Sports bars

Center grille guards

Full front-end grille guards

Bumper guards

Skid plates

A sports bar, for example, is mounted lower than other styles of brush guards. They provide minimal protection for your grill but offer more protection for low-speed collisions and impacts.

Full front-end grille guards offer some of the most comprehensive coverage. They typically use two uprights and a broad horizontal frame for headlight-to-headlight coverage.

Shop for a Leading Grille Guard

Explore leading brands and styles to match your driving style by shopping online. Check for deals and shop for the best options by reading customer reviews from dedicated off-road drivers.