i damaged my dust shield/mud guard when installing my suspension. it's that metal plate right behind the brake rotors. now it is all dented up and looking ugly.

i was just wondering if it is safe to remove it. are there any consequences in doing so? i've heard that rocks and debris can fly in and damage the rotor and/or brakes. i've seem some cars, mostly lifted trucks, run without them. i just want to make sure i'm not doing anything wrong if i discard them. thanks in advance.

the part i'm referring to is number 20.

 

Function over form my man. Do you want mud on your rotors? That's what its there for.

 

timmy you answewred your own question about consequences to replace it you have to separate hub assembly from knuckle...
as for being dented and looking ugly hell who is going to notice as long as it does not rub and make noise i'd say live with it.....an ugly looking 1 is better than nothing