How to Choose and Install Jeep Wrangler Rear Fender Flares?
You may think a Jeep Wrangler is tough enough to handle anything, but have you considered the importance of rear fender flares?
These seemingly small additions can make a big difference when it comes to protecting your beloved Jeep from the elements.
From dirt and rocks to debris, fender flares have your back.
And the best part?
There are countless options to choose from, allowing you to find the perfect match for your Wrangler’s style and needs.
So, let’s dive into the world of rear fender flares and discover how they can elevate both the look and protection of your Jeep.
jeep wrangler rear fender flares
Fender flares are important accessories for a Jeep Wrangler as they provide protection against dirt, rocks, and debris.
They come in different styles and sizes, and are usually made of durable plastic, polyethylene, or plate steel.
Plastic fender flares offer flexibility and ease of installation, while plate steel ones provide maximum durability.
Using fender flares on a Jeep Wrangler enhances protection, improves debris control, and enhances the overall aesthetics.
They are also essential when using oversized tires, as they offer a more natural look and protect the paint.
It is important to choose fender flares that are matched to the model year and style of the Jeep Wrangler.
For the Sahara model, specific options are available.
Fender flares come in various colors such as black, chrome, silver, matte black, and black chrome.
Overall, fender flares are essential for protecting a Jeep Wrangler and ensuring a stylish and functional appearance.
Key Points:
- Fender flares for Jeep Wrangler provide protection against dirt, rocks, and debris
- They come in different styles and sizes, made of plastic, polyethylene, or plate steel
- Plastic flares are flexible and easy to install, while plate steel flares offer maximum durability
- Fender flares enhance protection, improve debris control, and enhance aesthetics
- They are essential when using oversized tires, providing a natural look and protecting the paint
- Important to choose fender flares matched to the model year and style of the Jeep Wrangler
Check this out:
💡 Did You Know?
1. The purpose of rear fender flares on a Jeep Wrangler is not just for aesthetics, but also to protect the vehicle’s body panels from rocks, mud, and other debris that can be kicked up by the tires.
2. The first Jeep Wrangler model to feature factory-installed rear fender flares was the YJ, which was introduced in 1986. Prior to that, rear fender flares were typically an aftermarket modification.
3. Jeep Wrangler rear fender flares are often made from durable materials such as thermoplastic or high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which can withstand impacts, UV rays, and harsh weather conditions.
4. In addition to their functional benefits, rear fender flares on a Jeep Wrangler can also serve as a platform for additional accessories, such as off-road lights or mud flaps.
5. The design of Jeep Wrangler rear fender flares has evolved over time. Older models featured flares that were more narrow and low-profile, while newer models tend to have wider and more pronounced flares, giving the vehicle a more aggressive and rugged appearance.
Protecting Jeep Wrangler From Dirt, Rocks, And Debris
Jeep Wranglers are built for off-road adventures, which means they are prone to encountering dirt, rocks, and debris. The rear fender flares have a crucial role in protecting the Jeep Wrangler from these elements. Fender flares are extensions that cover the exposed wheel wells and provide a barrier between the tires and the body of the Jeep. This extra coverage prevents rocks, dirt, and debris from damaging the bodywork or windshields of the Jeep.
Moreover, fender flares also help keep the Jeep cleaner by reducing the amount of dirt and mud that splashes onto the sides of the vehicle. This not only keeps the Jeep looking cleaner but also prevents damage to the paintwork, as dirt and debris can cause scratches and chips. Fender flares are especially important for Jeep Wranglers that have larger tires, as the increased size of the tires makes them more prone to throwing up dirt and rocks.
Different Styles And Sizes Of Fender Flares
When it comes to fender flares for Jeep Wranglers, there are various styles and sizes available to choose from. The style of fender flares can greatly influence the look and functionality of the Jeep. The most common styles include pocket style, flat style, and OEM style fender flares.
Pocket style fender flares feature bolt-on pockets that provide a rugged and aggressive look to the Jeep Wrangler. They are often larger in size and offer extra tire clearance for those who like to tackle more extreme off-road terrains.
Flat style fender flares, on the other hand, provide a more streamlined and sleek appearance. They are typically thinner and do not protrude as much from the body of the Jeep.
OEM style fender flares are designed to match the original factory fender flares, offering a seamless integration with the Jeep’s overall look.
Apart from different styles, fender flares also come in various sizes to accommodate different tire sizes. It’s essential to choose fender flares that are wide enough to provide sufficient coverage for your specific tire size. This will ensure maximum protection against dirt, rocks, and debris.
Materials Used For Fender Flares: Durable Plastic, Polyethylene, Or Plate Steel
Fender flares can be made from different materials, with the most common options being durable plastic, polyethylene, or plate steel. Each material offers its own set of advantages and considerations.
Durable plastic fender flares are the most common choice for Jeep Wrangler owners. They are lightweight, resistant to UV damage, and easy to install. Plastic fender flares are also more flexible, making them less prone to cracking or breaking under impact. They are an excellent option for daily driving and moderate off-roading.
Polyethylene fender flares are similar to plastic fender flares but are made from a more robust and flexible material. This makes them even more durable, capable of withstanding more extreme off-road conditions, and resistant to scratches and impacts.
Plate steel fender flares, while less common, are chosen by those seeking maximum durability and strength. These fender flares are constructed from thick steel plates, offering superior protection against impacts from rocks and debris. However, they are heavier and may require additional modifications for installation.
Differences Between Plastic And Plate Steel Fender Flares
The choice between plastic and plate steel fender flares ultimately depends on the specific needs and preferences of the Jeep Wrangler owner.
Plastic fender flares are the lighter option and easier to install. They are more suitable for everyday driving and offer adequate protection for most off-road adventures. Additionally, plastic fender flares are available in a variety of styles and sizes.
Plate steel fender flares, on the other hand, provide unparalleled durability and strength. They are less likely to crack or break upon impact and offer superior protection in extreme off-road conditions. However, it’s important to note that the added weight of plate steel fender flares can affect the handling of the Jeep and may require additional modifications for installation.
In summary, when choosing between plastic and plate steel fender flares, consider the trade-offs between weight, durability, and handling, based on your specific off-road requirements.
Here are some key points to remember:
- Plastic fender flares are lighter and easier to install.
- They are suitable for everyday driving and offer adequate protection for most off-road adventures.
- Plate steel fender flares provide unmatched durability and strength.
- They offer superior protection in extreme off-road conditions.
- However, the added weight of plate steel fender flares can impact the handling of the Jeep and may require additional modifications for installation.
Benefits Of Using Fender Flares: Enhanced Protection, Better Debris Control, Improved Aesthetics, Natural Look With Oversized Tires
The use of fender flares on a Jeep Wrangler provides several benefits that make them a worthwhile investment.
Enhanced Protection: Fender flares act as a shield against dirt, rocks, and debris, preventing damage to the body and paintwork of the Jeep Wrangler. They also offer protection against scratches and dings caused by larger tires and off-road obstacles.
Better Debris Control: Fender flares help to control the debris kicked up by the tires, reducing the amount of mud, dirt, and rocks that end up on the sides of the Jeep and other vehicles. This keeps the Jeep cleaner and minimizes the risk of damage to the paint.
Improved Aesthetics: Fender flares can significantly enhance the overall appearance of a Jeep Wrangler. They come in different styles and sizes, allowing owners to personalize their Jeep’s look and create a more aggressive or streamlined appearance.
Natural Look with Oversized Tires: Fender flares are particularly useful when fitting larger tires on a Jeep Wrangler. They provide the necessary clearance and maintain a proportional and natural look by extending the fender line to match the increased tire size.
– Enhanced protection against dirt, rocks, and debris.
– Better control over kicked-up debris, keeping the Jeep cleaner and minimizing paint damage.
– Improved aesthetics with different styles and sizes.
– Natural look when fitting larger tires, maintaining a proportional appearance.
Choosing Fender Flares Matched To The Model Year And Style Of Jeep Wrangler
When selecting fender flares for a Jeep Wrangler, it’s crucial to consider the model year and style of the vehicle. Fender flares are designed to fit specific models and may vary in shape and size. It’s essential to choose fender flares that are compatible with the Jeep Wrangler’s model year to ensure a proper fit.
Additionally, the style of fender flares should complement the overall aesthetic of the Jeep. Whether it’s the aggressive look of pocket style fender flares or the sleek appeal of flat style fender flares, selecting a style that aligns with the owner’s personal taste is essential.
- Consider the model year and style of the Jeep Wrangler when choosing fender flares.
- Ensure the fender flares are compatible with the Jeep Wrangler’s model year for a proper fit.
- Choose a fender flare style that complements the overall aesthetic of the Jeep Wrangler.
- Options include pocket style fender flares for an aggressive look and flat style fender flares for a sleek appeal.
Remember to choose fender flares that not only fit your Jeep, but also align with your personal taste.
Specific Options For Jeep Wrangler Sahara Fender Flares
Jeep Wrangler Sahara owners have specific options when it comes to fender flares. The Sahara model typically features body-colored fender flares, which blend seamlessly with the overall appearance of the Jeep. These fender flares maintain the clean and refined look desired by Sahara owners while providing the necessary protection against dirt and debris. It’s important to choose fender flares that are designed specifically for the Sahara model to ensure a perfect match and proper fit.
Available Colors For Fender Flares: Black, Chrome, Silver, Matte Black, And Black Chrome
Fender flares come in a range of colors, allowing Jeep Wrangler owners to customize the appearance of their vehicle. The most common colors include:
- black
- chrome
- silver
- matte black
- black chrome
Each color option offers a distinct look that can either complement or contrast with the Jeep’s body color.
- Black fender flares provide a sleek and rugged appearance, blending well with any exterior color.
- Chrome and silver fender flares add a touch of sophistication and shine, making the Jeep stand out in a crowd.
- Matte black fender flares offer a more stealthy and aggressive look, popular among those seeking a rugged and off-road-oriented appearance.
- Black chrome fender flares combine the sleekness of chrome with the darkness of black, creating a unique and eye-catching style.
The importance of using fender flares on a Jeep Wrangler cannot be overstated. Fender flares:
- Protect the Jeep from dirt, rocks, and debris, keeping it cleaner and preventing damage to the body and paintwork.
- Come in various styles and sizes, allowing owners to customize the appearance of their Jeep.
- Offer different levels of durability and strength with materials such as plastic and plate steel.
- Provide enhanced protection, better debris control, improved aesthetics, and a natural look when using oversized tires.
When choosing fender flares, it’s crucial to consider the model year and style of the Jeep Wrangler, as well as specific options available for certain models like the Sahara. Available colors for fender flares include black, chrome, silver, matte black, and black chrome, enabling owners to further personalize their Jeeps.
With this comprehensive guide, Jeep Wrangler owners can confidently select and install rear fender flares that will enhance both the functionality and appearance of their vehicles.
FAQ
Do jeeps need fender flares?
Installing fender flares on a Jeep is an essential measure to protect both the vehicle itself and its surroundings. By extending out from the fender and wheel well, these flares effectively shield the wider tires and prevent the debris they may kick up from causing any damage. Moreover, fender flares are not just for practical reasons but also for legal compliance. Ensuring that your Jeep is equipped with properly installed flares allows you to meet the necessary legal requirements.
In addition to safeguarding your Jeep’s body, fender flares play a crucial role in preventing any potential damage to other trucks or individuals in close proximity. By providing an extra layer of protection, these flares act as a barrier against any debris that might otherwise be propelled by the wider tires, reducing the risk of accidents or injuries. Therefore, installing flares on your Jeep is not only a practical choice but also a responsible one, ensuring the safety of both your vehicle and those around you.
What is the difference between fenders and fender flares?
Fenders and fender flares serve different functions on a vehicle. Fenders, located at the front, protect the tires and help divert debris away from the body of the car. On the other hand, fender flares are extensions of the wheel well that protrude from the vehicle’s body, providing additional space for larger tires or custom wheel offsets. While fenders are typically factory-installed, fender flares are often bolted on as separate aftermarket parts. Essentially, fenders guard the tires, while fender flares enhance the aesthetic and functionality of the wheel well area.
Why do people put fender flares on?
In addition to the practical benefits, people also put fender flares on their vehicles for aesthetic reasons. Fender flares add a rugged and aggressive look to trucks and SUVs, giving them a more off-road or customized appearance. By enhancing the overall style of the vehicle, fender flares can help individuals express their personal taste and make their vehicle stand out from the crowd.
Are YJ and TJ fender flares the same?
Yes, YJ and TJ fender flares have similar shapes, but there are a few notable differences. While the majority of the flares are the same, there are two distinct areas where they vary. These variations may not be immediately noticeable, but they do exist. Overall, though, the similarities outweigh these minor differences, making YJ and TJ fender flares very similar in shape and design.
