does anyone know how to remove those clear plastic guards in front of the rear tires without messing up the paint? there kind of ugly.

With a heat gun probably, and very carefully.

its there for a reason, BUT... maybe heat gun like ^^^ said, just make sure you dont mess the paint off by burning it. The paint where that was located at might be sticky and really hard to remove...so all i can say is good luck!

anyone ever done this or do they leave it on?

Its hard to see on the gloss black, so I just left it on. It isn't bothering me and its protecting the car. However, on my wife's 2011 xB, which is white, it is extremely noticeable and tacky. When the car is dirty, it shows really bad.

never mind guys, i was able to just peel it off with my fingers. thanks guys!