Do I need this part of the wheel liner?

So I didn't like the way these pieces hung down in front of my front tires, and noticed they are bolted on separately... A friend suggested they might actually serve a purpose but aside from being a splash guard I can't see what they would do... Do I need them?

 

No sir.

 

Thanks

Any idea as to their intended function?

 

I just took mine off today. When I got my small lift and slightly bigger tires they would rub in one configuration: full-right turn backing up...the driver's side one was the culprit.

Not sure what purpose they serve except splash guards (for spinning front tires in 4wd in reverse??). I'm sure we'll both be fine without them.

 

looks better without them anyways

I plan on buying a new bumper in the summer anyways but for now...

 

I always thought they functioned as a "front spoiler" or an air-dam of sorts, to help with MPG by diverting air away from the front tires... But a splash guard would make sense too...

that is however, a really good question!!