Introduction to Fender Flares & Trim
Fender flares and trim are exterior car accessories that can provide both form and function for your vehicle. Here's what you need to know about these popular automotive accessories.
What are Fender Flares?
Fender flares are molded or fabricated pieces that attach to the wheel well opening. They create a wider profile that covers the outer edges of your tires. This allows you to install larger tires without having them extend past the vehicle's body. Fender flares come in different materials like:
- Fiberglass
- Plastic
- Steel
- Aluminum
Benefits of Installing Fender Flares
There are several advantages to installing fender flares on your vehicle:
- Protect paint from gravel, road debris and mud
- Prevent rust by covering exposed sheet metal edges
- Enhance appearance with custom styling
- Hide wider tires when lifting vehicle
Types of Fender Flares
Fender flares come in different designs to suit your needs:
- Bolt-on fender flares - These attach to existing bolt holes around the wheel well for easy install.
- Stick-on fender flares - These use a strong automotive adhesive and 3M tape to adhere directly to vehicle body.
- OE style fender flares - These match your vehicle's original equipment design and finish.
- Custom fender flares - These come in unique shapes, materials and designs to create a custom look.
Fender Trim Options
You can further customize your vehicle's appearance with fender trim options like:
- Chrome trim - This bright metal trim adds flashy highlights around wheel wells.
- Painted trim - Colored trim can match or contrast your exterior paint.
- Rubber trim - Flexible rubber trim provides protection from scratches.
- Body-matched trim - Molded trim color-matched to your vehicle finishes the flares smoothly.
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Installing Fender Flares
Proper installation is key to getting the most out of your fender flares. Here are some tips:
- Clean and degrease the installation area for best adhesion.
- Apply the adhesive according to manufacturer instructions.
- Position flares and apply steady pressure for proper bonding.
- Use a roller tool to smooth out edges and remove trapped air.
- Use trim screws or rivets for any additional fastening points.
- Take care not to overtighten screws to avoid cracking plastic flares.
- Seal all edges with trim tape or silicone for a waterproof seal.
With the right fender flares and trim installed properly, you can give your vehicle an upgraded, custom look while protecting the bodywork at the same time.
What are Fender Flares and Trim?
Fender flares and trim are among the most popular customized exterior accessories for trucks, SUVs, and specialty off-road vehicles. But what exactly are they?
Fender Flares
Fender flares are expansions or extensions that bolt onto the fender wells (wheel arches) to cover the outer face of the tires. They create a wider stance and allow larger tires to be installed without sticking out beyond the vehicle fenders.
Fender flares protect the vehicle body from:
- Gravel, rocks, and road debris thrown by the tires
- Mud, dirt, and moisture buildup on the wheel wells
- Scratches from brush or passing close to obstacles
They are commonly made from:
- Fiberglass
- Steel
- Plastic (ABS)
- Aluminum
Fender Trim
Fender trim refers to decorative moldings installed around the edges of the fender flares or along the wheel wells. Trim options include:
- Chrome - Bright, mirror-like finish
- Matte - Flat, non-reflective texture
- Painted - Color matched or contrasting
- Rubber - Flexible for impact protection
- Riveted - Rows of rivets for rugged style
Trim accents the shape of the flares and provides a finished, seamless look around the wheel wells.
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Benefits
Together, fender flares and trim offer these advantages:
- Protect bodywork from damage
- Allow fitting larger tires
- Improve appearance and style
- Cover rust spots and imperfections
- Provide custom, aftermarket aesthetic
With their rugged durability and ability to customize the look of a vehicle, it's clear why fender flares and trim are so popular among truck, SUV, and off-road enthusiasts.
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Why Install Fender Flares and Trim?
What motivates so many truck, SUV, and off-road owners to install customized fender flares and trim? Here are some of the top reasons:
Protection
One of the main benefits of fender flares is protecting the vehicle's bodywork from damage caused by:
- Gravel, rocks, and debris thrown by the tires
- Brush, obstacles, and trailside scrapes
- Exposure to mud, dirt, and moisture
The flares take the brunt of the impact, keeping the fenders free of dings, cracks, and rust.
Tire Coverage
The expanded width of fender flares allows for installing oversized, aggressive tires without the tires protruding past the fenders. This gives room for:
- Wider tires and wheels for an aggressive stance
- Larger diameter tires for increased ground clearance
The extra clearance helps prevent tire rub when flexing the suspension and prevents violations when lifting the vehicle height.
Appearance
Fender flares and trim provide the opportunity to customize the exterior with:
- Built-in style of the flare shape and design
- Paint and finish matching or contrasting the vehicle
- Trim accents in chrome, matte, or color-matched
The flares give a wider, more planted look while complementing the existing lines of the truck or SUV.
Finish Imperfections
Installing flares can conceal existing body damage or flaws like:
- Rust spots and corrosion on wheel wells
- Scratches, scrapes, and misaligned panels
- Poor quality paint or paint mismatches
The expansion of the flares beyond the original fenders covers these unsightly blemishes.
Aftermarket Style
Fender flares allow owners to customize their vehicle with aftermarket parts. This personalized style makes the truck unique compared to factory models. The look communicates the vehicle's off-road preparedness.
For protection, function, appearance, and style, installing customized fender flares and trim is a popular upgrade for tough trucks, SUVs, and specialty vehicles.
Types of Fender Flares and Trim
Fender flares and trim come in a variety of styles, materials, and designs to meet different needs and preferences. Here are some of the most common types:
Fender Flare Types
- Bolt-On
- Attach to existing holes in fender well
- Easy DIY installation
- Brands like Bushwacker, Lund, Go Rhino
- Stick-On
- Bonds directly to vehicle surface
- Pre-fitted shape for custom look
- Use 3M tape and automotive adhesive
- Brands like Duraflex, Auto Dynasty, VIS Racing
- Rubber
- Flexible durable rubber construction
- Absorbs impacts from debris
- Protects paint from scratches
- Prevents rust and corrosion
- Steel/Aluminum
- Very durable metal construction
- Withstands off-road damage
- Prone to dents from impacts
- Brands like Trail Armor, CBI Offroad
Fender Trim Types
- Chrome
- Shiny polished metal accent
- Prone to pitting and corrosion
- Most common original factory trim
- Painted Color Match
- Matches vehicle paint color
- Smooth, color-blended look
- More durable than chrome
- Matte Black
- Aggressive, non-reflective finish
- Durable powder coated surface
- Resists scratches and corrosion
- Carbon Fiber
- High-end racing style accent
- Real or simulated carbon fiber weave
- Lightweight and strong
With the wide selection of fender flare and trim options, you can find the perfect accessories to give your truck or SUV the desired look and protection.
Choosing the Right Fender Flares & Trim for Your Vehicle
Selecting compatible fender flares and trim for your particular make and model ensures proper fitment and appearance. Consider these factors when choosing accessories:
Vehicle Information
Gather key details about your vehicle:
- Make, model, year
- Trim level (LX, Sport, etc.)
- Factory wheel and tire size
- Type of suspension (lifted, leveled, stock)
This helps determine the correct flare size and style for your truck or SUV.
Style Preferences
Decide the look you want to achieve:
- Aggressive & rugged or smooth & refined
- Follow factory body lines or stand out
- Color match, contrast, or carbon fiber
- Gloss, matte, or chrome finish
This influences the shape, material, and trim accents.
Materials
Consider the advantages of different fender flare materials:
- Fiberglass - lightweight and paintable
- Steel - ultimate durability for off-roading
- Plastic - economical choice for basic protection
- Aluminum - corrosion resistance
Installation Method
Choose how the flares will attach:
- Bolt-on - reuse factory holes for easy install
- Stick-on - bonds directly to vehicle surface
- Drill-on - uses new mounting holes
Factor in your skill level and available tools.
Budget
Fender flare prices range from:
- Basic plastic bolt-on - $100-$300
- High-end steel or carbon fiber - $500-$1,500+
Consider both product cost and professional installation prices (if applicable).
Brand Reputation
Stick with established, reputable brands like:
- Lund
- Rugged Ridge
- AMP Research
- Bushwacker
This helps ensure proper fitment and durability.
Matching your fender flares and trim to the right vehicle ensures they enhance the look while providing protection. Consider all factors for the ideal customized solution.
Consider Your Vehicle's Make, Model and Year
One of the most important factors in choosing compatible fender flares is carefully considering your vehicle's make, model and year. Matching the flares to your specific vehicle ensures proper fit and appearance.
Make
The vehicle make affects flare design in a few key ways:
- Overall size and proportions of the wheel well area
- Shape and contour of the fender lines
- Width between the front and rear wheel wells
Truck makes like Ford, Chevy, and Dodge have distinct fender shapes and openings. The flares must conform precisely to the body lines.
Model
The vehicle model determines additional specifics like:
- Exact fender dimensions and bolt patterns
- Positioning of trim openings and attachment points
- Wheel well depths and clearance required
Flare kits are designed for particular models like F-150, Silverado 1500, or Ram 2500.
Year
The vehicle year is important because:
- Fender shapes and sizes change with each vehicle generation
- Bolt patterns and trim alignment often update
- New body styles debut each model year
Flares for a 2019 Ram Rebel won't align properly on a 2020 version due to slight style changes.
Why It Matters
Considering the specific make, model and year ensures:
- Proper flare coverage and fit around wheel wells
- Precise alignment with fender lines and trim openings
- Positive attachment at all mounting and hardware points
- Ideal appearance and styling relative to the vehicle body
Mismatched or incompatible flares result in gaps, misalignment, drilling extra holes, and poor aesthetics.
Get an exact make, model and year match for optimal function and OE-quality looks from your fender flares.
What Are The Most Popular Fender Flares & Trim Products?
Based on the search results, here are some of the most popular fender flares & trim products:
- Fender Flares Stainless Steel Fender Trim from TCcustoms.com
- Lund SX Sport-Style Fender Flares from JEGS High Performance
- Bushwacker OE-Style Fender Flares from JEGS High Performance
- Bushwacker Forge Fender Flares from JEGS High Performance
- Bushwacker Cut-Out Fender Flares from JEGS High Performance
- Bushwacker Extend-A-Fender Flares from JEGS High Performance
- Putco Stainless Steel Fender Trim from JEGS High Performance
It's worth noting that these are just a few examples of popular fender flares & trim products, and there are many other options available from various retailers.
What Are The Different Types Of Fender Flares & Trim Available?
There are different types of fender flares & trim available in the market. Here are some of the types of fender flares & trim based on the search results:
- Fender Flare Edge Trim - This type of fender flare trim gives your fender flares an attractive finish and protects them against wear and tear, stone chips, and the elements. It is manufactured with EPDM and is flexible enough to fit most fender flares. It mounts between the fender flare and the body to protect your vehicle by minimizing vibrations and gaps.
- OE Style - This is the most popular style of fender flares. It is custom fit and made to match the contours of your specific model’s fender lines. It provides the fullest amount of protection and is available in different heights and tire coverage.
- Bolt Style - This style of fender flares is similar to OE style but with bolts that are visible on the surface. It is also custom fit and available in different heights and tire coverage.
- Pocket Style - This style of fender flares is an extreme version of the bolt style. It has bolts that are recessed into the fender flare, making it look like the bolts are actually being used to attach the fenders to your vehicle.
- Cut Out Style - This style of fender flares is an even more extreme version of the pocket style. It has bolts but even more recess than pocket style, specific to Bushwacker and a few other manufacturers.
- Extended Style - This style of fender flares extends or reaches out farther from your vehicle than any other style. It is the most extreme fender flares as far as tire coverage goes.
- Stainless Steel Fender Trim - This type of fender trim is made of stainless steel and is designed to give your vehicle a custom look. It is easy to install and is available in different sizes and shapes.
These are just a few examples of the different types of fender flares & trim available in the market. It's important to choose the right type of fender flares & trim that fits your vehicle and meets your specific needs.
What Are The Differences Between Oe Style And Street Style Fender Flares?
Based on the search results, here are the differences between OE style and street style fender flares:
OE Style Fender Flares:
Street Style Fender Flares:
In summary, the main differences between OE style and street style fender flares are their appearance and level of aggressiveness. OE style fender flares are more subtle and sleek, while street style fender flares are more rugged and low-profile.
