The Advantages of Fender Flares for Combined Functionality and Style
Pickup trucks are an ideal blend of rugged capability, functionality, and style. But sometimes, even the most well-equipped truck can benefit from a simple yet impactful upgrade. When it comes to your pickup truck, accessories like fender flares add an impact to the aesthetics and performance. They also serve various functional purposes and advantages that can elevate the functionality of your vehicle.
Fender Flare Styles
Get the practical benefits to your pickup truck by choosing from these fender flares styles:
OE
Original equipment (or OE for short) is commonly found in brand-new trucks. You can match OE fender flares to other truck parts and trim, which go seamlessly with the exterior’s look while maintaining the manufacturer’s design. These flares protect the suspension parts and underframe from debris tossed by tire spin while giving the wheel well a sleek yet subtle appearance. OE is the most affordable choice among the fender flare types, as it costs a fraction of the price compared to buying a factory part.
Street
Street style is known for its low-profile design yet rugged looks, ideal for off-road rigs. The flares can be easily attached to the wheel well without hassle. Many owners with lifted or heavily modified trucks prefer this fender flare type, as it provides extra clearance for oversized tires. They are durable and resistant to distorting and cracking, which helps protect the vehicle from road hazards and extreme weather conditions.
Bolt-On
Adding bolt-on style fender flares to your truck does not require drilling or significant modification to the vehicle. Installation is a breeze, as it can be done in under an hour using simple tools. Bolt-on fender flares are attached to the wheel well with bolts and rivets. They may seem comparable to the pocket style. However, the design cues of bolt-on flares give a more aggressive and rugged look, ideal for off-roading. Additionally, they protect the sides and suspension parts when encountering obstacles. This type of flare comes in various shapes and sizes and is constructed using fiberglass or plastic.
Pocket-style flares may look similar to some stock fender flares, making them a popular choice for truck owners who use their vehicles for daily driving and off-roading. They remain flexible in extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, offering extra protection from road elements. They also provide plenty of coverage for the wheels and tires. You can tailor-fit pocket-style flares to your truck. They are easy to install and do not require alteration to the pickup truck by just fastening the rivets on the fenders. If you cannot find the right color of pocket fender flares, you can repaint them to match them to the color and style of your ride.
Flat
Flat fender flares have a simple design, which is a good option for trucks with limited space on the wheel well. They are not curved downward like other flare types but extend straight from the vehicle for a level surface area. Polyethylene foam is the usual material for manufacturing flat-style flares. They are easy to install and customize with paint and decals to match your rig.
Wide and Extended
The wide and extended fender flares can enhance the look of your pickup truck while protecting the exterior and some parts from debris, regardless of the challenging terrain you want to explore. They are specifically designed for vehicles with larger tires, as well as those who do rock crawling and extreme off-roading. The wide flares extend up to 3 inches, giving more tire clearance and stance, especially for heavily mod suspension. The flares can also improve the aerodynamics of your pickup truck for fuel efficiency.
Painted
Aside from shielding the vehicle from dirt and debris, painted fender flares provide a great way to add style to your truck. Available in many colors and styles, they are famous for their aesthetic features that can add a lot of personality to your vehicle.
The flair of fender flares
Fender flares might seem purely cosmetic, but they can protect your truck and enhance its off-road capabilities. They offer a balance of style and functionality that can significantly improve the appearance and performance of the vehicle. Here are the reasons why this truck accessory is a wise investment:
Enhanced Off-Road Protection
When you conquer rough landscapes, your tires may kick up more debris. Fender flares provide additional coverage, preventing mud and rocks from getting flung onto the bodywork and underside of your truck. Fender flares protect the truck’s body from hazards on or off the road. It is particularly beneficial for off-road enthusiasts who frequently navigate demanding terrains.
Shield the Paint Job
Road rocks can scratch the paint when the tires kick up fragments as you drive on highways or city streets. The paint job can also get damaged when driving on trails since you will encounter mud, gravel, and other forms of debris. Fender flares act as a shield by deflecting these road hazards from the body of your truck and preventing chips and scratches.
Wider Tire Coverage
Fender flares are beneficial for those who want to upsize the tires of their pickup trucks. They help prevent the tires from rubbing against the bodywork when cornering or turning.
Improved Aerodynamics
Some fender flares are designed to improve the aerodynamics of pickup trucks. This aftermarket accessory can channel the airflow around the wheels, potentially leading to slightly better fuel efficiency.
Legal Compliance
In some states, it is required for vehicles with oversized tires and other complicated suspension mods to add fender flares. Road debris can get thrown up in the air by the tires. Fender flares prevent particles like road rocks from causing accidents or damage to nearby vehicles, especially when driving at speed on the highway. They help ensure compliance and dodge avoidable fines.
Enhanced Appearance
Fender flares can widen the stance visually for more aggressive styling. Since they come in various finishes, they can help personalize the look of your pickup truck. They add a unique touch that can make your vehicle stand out since some options come in different colors that you can match. Moreover, the flares complement other forms of mods like larger tires and lifted suspensions for an enhanced aesthetic.
Increased Resale Value
Well-maintained fender flares can boost a vehicle’s resale value. They can also enhance the aesthetics and maintain the pristine condition of the truck’s exterior.
Aside from protection, fender flares boost the pickup truck from ordinary to extraordinary, allowing you to enjoy a combination of enhanced functionality and aesthetics. Whether for daily driving or weekend adventures, fender flares are a practical and stylish addition to your vehicle.
