Abstract: A side guard for protecting vehicles is attached at its ends to recessed securing mechanisms located in the wheel wells or elsewhere in the vehicle body. The guard is a belt or tubular molding of rubber or plastic which can be locked into place to prevent unauthorized removal. The guard can be positioned and configured to provide maximum protection of the vehicle, is easy to attach and remove, and can be effectively locked in place. An electrical circuit formed in the guard can be connected to an alarm system. The locking mechanism can be electrically actuated by a vehicle locking system, e.g. by unlocking the door.