1st gen auris drip trim roof moulding plastic part needed?

[brainii]

Other than cosmetic purposes, do they have any functional reason for existence?

Mine was cracked and flopping about for at least a year. No water ever came in, so that must not be it.

I recently completely got rid of it on one side, thinking to rip the other side out too.

 

 

[jcps001]

You can buy new ones if you want to. I bought a pair for mine, almost three years ago. It seems it is better to be there than not... If it rains, rainwater will fill that space, and who knows what may happen...

[brainii]

I double checked yesterday. pretty sure nothing will happen. that space is not connected to doors, boot or anything else. The metal clips that attach the trim seemed to be spot welded on, so no way for the water to go in the car.

[furtula]

Keeps the water, snow and other junk away from the car. You might expect some rust there in a year or two, due to sitting water. 

[ziauris]

Yes, replace. Toyota and other manufacturers don't spend money they don't have to so it must be needed for rust prevention, aerodynamics etc.