How to Install Rear Spats on Nissan Maxima: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide

Rear spats are one of the most effective and underrated aero upgrades you can add to your Nissan Maxima. Positioned just behind the rear wheels, these sculpted pieces visually widen the rear stance, give the bumper a more aggressive lower profile, and help manage airflow around the rear wheel wells. Best of all, the installation is straightforward enough for a confident DIYer to complete in an afternoon.

Whether you are building a street-driven show car or a weekend track toy, adding rear spats is a smart way to enhance both style and function. In this guide, we will walk through the entire installation process — from gathering tools to final alignment — so you can achieve a professional-looking result without a shop visit.

Why Install Rear Spats on Your Nissan Maxima?

Rear spats serve both aesthetic and aerodynamic purposes. On the visual side, they fill the empty space behind the rear wheels, giving the car a lower, more planted appearance. They also help tie together other aero elements like side skirts and rear diffusers, creating a cohesive exterior package.

From a performance standpoint, rear spats reduce turbulence behind the rear wheels, which can improve high-speed stability and reduce drag. While the effect is subtle compared to a full splitter or wing, every bit of aerodynamic refinement adds up — especially if you have already upgraded other areas of the car.

• Creates a wider, more aggressive rear stance
• Reduces rear wheel well turbulence
• Complements side skirts and diffusers for a complete aero look
• Easy weekend DIY project with basic tools

Tools and Materials You Will Need

Before you start, gather everything you need to avoid mid-project trips to the hardware store. Most rear spat installations use a combination of automotive-grade double-sided tape and self-tapping screws or push clips. The exact hardware depends on the spat design and whether your Maxima has pre-drilled mounting points.

Here is a typical list: rear spats (specific to your Maxima year and trim), 3M double-sided automotive tape, self-tapping screws or push rivets, a drill with small drill bits, a screwdriver, isopropyl alcohol and a microfiber cloth for cleaning, painter’s tape for alignment, and a heat gun or hair dryer to soften the tape.

• Use 3M tape rated for exterior automotive use — cheap tape will fail in heat or rain
• If your spats come with pre-applied tape, still add a few screws for long-term security
• Clean the bumper surface thoroughly with alcohol; any wax or residue reduces adhesion

Step 1: Prepare the Bumper Surface

Start by washing the rear bumper area behind the wheels. Remove any dirt, road grime, or wax buildup. Once dry, wipe the mounting area with isopropyl alcohol using a clean microfiber cloth. This step is critical — adhesive tape will not stick properly to a contaminated surface.

If your Maxima has existing mud flaps or splash guards, remove them now. You may need to relocate or trim them to fit the spats. Take a moment to inspect the bumper for any damage or loose paint that could interfere with the installation.

Step 2: Dry-Fit the Rear Spats

Before applying any adhesive, hold each spat in position to check fitment. Rear spats are usually side-specific (left and right), so confirm you have the correct one for each side. The spat should sit flush against the bumper contour and align with the wheel arch edge.

Use painter’s tape to temporarily hold the spat in place. Step back and check the alignment from several angles. Adjust as needed until the gap between the spat and bumper is even on both sides. Mark the final position with a pencil line on the bumper for reference.

• If the spat does not sit flush, you may need to gently heat it with a heat gun to conform to the bumper shape
• Do not skip dry-fitting — it saves time and prevents crooked installation

Step 3: Apply Tape and Mount the Spats

Remove the painter’s tape and clean the spat’s mounting surface with alcohol as well. Apply strips of 3M double-sided tape to the back of the spat, following the manufacturer’s recommended layout. Peel the backing off one section at a time to keep the tape clean.

Press the spat firmly into position along your pencil marks. Apply strong, even pressure for 30–60 seconds. For extra holding power, use a heat gun on low to warm the tape after installation — this activates the adhesive bond. If your spats include screw holes, drill pilot holes through the bumper (check behind for clearance) and install the screws or rivets.

• Work in a warm environment (above 60°F / 15°C) for best tape adhesion
• Avoid driving the car for 24 hours to allow the tape to fully cure

Step 4: Final Alignment and Curing

Once both spats are mounted, double-check the alignment. The lower edge should be parallel to the ground, and the gap between the spat and bumper should be consistent. If any edge is lifting, press it down firmly and hold for a few seconds.

Let the adhesive cure for at least 24 hours before washing the car or driving at highway speeds. During this time, avoid pressure washing or exposing the spats to heavy rain. After curing, your rear spats will be securely attached and ready to handle daily driving conditions.

Pro Tips for a Flawless Install

If you live in a region with extreme temperatures or frequent rain, consider adding a bead of silicone sealant along the top edge of the spat. This prevents water and debris from getting trapped between the spat and bumper, which can cause paint damage over time.

For those who already have a front splitter or side skirts, matching rear spats complete the visual package. Products like the 2010-2013 Mazda Speed3 V2 Splitter and the 2012-2015 Honda Civic Si V2 Splitter are popular choices for owners looking to build a full aero kit. While these are designed for specific models, the installation principles remain the same: clean surface, good tape, and patience.

• Check local laws — some regions have restrictions on how far aero parts can protrude from the bumper
• If your Maxima has a rear diffuser, ensure the spats do not block its airflow path

Installing rear spats on your Nissan Maxima is a rewarding DIY project that instantly upgrades the car's rear-end presence. With basic tools, quality tape, and careful alignment, you can achieve a clean, durable installation that lasts for years. If you are looking to expand your aero kit further, check out the 2016-2019 Honda Civic Coupe V3 Splitter for inspiration on how front and rear aero pieces work together — the same principles apply to your Maxima build.