Want to give your vehicle a more aggressive look, protect your paint from road debris, and make room for wider wheels or tires? Installing aftermarket fender flares is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to upgrade your ride. Whether you're building an off-road rig, a lowered street beast, or simply want more coverage, this DIY guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
At WOT Performance Parts, we offer top-quality fender flares in various styles, sizes, and finishes, so you can customize your look and function without breaking the bank.
What Are Fender Flares?
Fender flares are extensions that mount over your wheel wells to add tire coverage, reduce road spray, and give your vehicle a wider, more aggressive profile. They’re especially useful for:
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Trucks and SUVs with lifted suspensions
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Street cars with wide wheels or stretched tires
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Vehicles that need extra debris protection from rocks, sand, or mud
From rugged bolt-on styles to sleek OEM-style contours, there’s a flare design for every build.
Benefits Of Installing Fender Flares
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Protects Your Paint: Shields your fenders from rocks, dirt, and tire kick-up
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Adds Clearance: Makes room for larger wheels and tires
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Improves Style: Gives your ride a wider, tougher stance
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May Help With Legal Compliance: Required in some states for tire coverage laws
Tools & Materials You'll Need
Before you start, gather the following:
- Fender flares (make sure they're the correct size and model)
- Screws or rivets (usually included)
- Rubber trim (for clean edge finish)
- Drill with bits (if required)
- Socket wrench or screwdriver
- Jack and jack stands (optional)
- Measuring tape
- Marker or grease pencil
- Masking tape
- Rubbing alcohol or surface cleaner
Step-By-Step: How To Install Fender Flares
Step 1: Test Fit First
Before drilling or applying adhesive, place each fender flare on the vehicle to ensure proper fitment. Make any adjustments now.
Step 2: Clean The Surface
Wipe down the fender area with rubbing alcohol or degreaser to remove dirt, wax, or debris. A clean surface ensures better adhesion and paint protection.
Step 3: Apply Rubber Edge Trim (Optional)
If your kit includes edge trim, install it along the inner edge of the flare. This protects your paint from rubbing and gives a finished look.
Step 4: Mark Your Mounting Points
Use masking tape to hold the flare in place temporarily. Then, use a marker or grease pencil to mark the locations where screws or rivets will go.
Step 5: Drill Pilot Holes (If Required)
If your flares require drilling, use a small drill bit to create pilot holes at your marked points. Be careful not to drill too deep or damage inner panels.
Note: Some kits are no-drill, using clips or adhesive tape instead. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 6: Attach The Fender Flares
Secure the flares using the supplied hardware. Work slowly and evenly around the arch to ensure a snug, even fit.
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Use a torque-limiting screwdriver to avoid overtightening and cracking the flare
- If using adhesive tape, press firmly and hold for 30–60 seconds per section
Step 7: Double Check Fitment
Once installed, inspect the entire edge for gaps or misalignment. Adjust as needed before final tightening.
Step 8: Repeat For All Wheels
Repeat the process for all four corners. Some kits are universal, while others are specific to each wheel well—check labels before starting.
Pro Tips For A Clean Install
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Take your time—rushing leads to uneven fitment
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Use new clips or hardware if reusing factory holes
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Paint-match flares for a seamless factory appearance
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Choose rivet-style flares for a rugged, off-road vibe
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Use clear protective film under flares to prevent paint abrasion
Common Styles Of Fender Flares
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Bolt-On/Rivet Style: Aggressive look with visible hardware
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OE Style: Sleek and clean for a subtle upgrade
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Wide Body: Extreme coverage for big wheels and aggressive offsets
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Street Style: Ideal for lowered vehicles and custom street builds
Legal Note: Know Your State’s Laws
Some states require full tire tread coverage to stay street legal. Fender flares can help keep your vehicle compliant and reduce the risk of tickets or inspection issues.
Get The Right Fender Flares At WOT Performance Parts
Whether you're going for off-road tough or street-sleek, WOT Performance Parts has the right fender flares for your build. We carry top-quality options for trucks, SUVs, cars, and crossovers—all at unbeatable prices.
Need help choosing the right set? Our team is here to guide you based on tire size, ride height, and vehicle use.
Protect your ride, boost your style, and upgrade with confidence. Shop aftermarket fender flares today—because performance starts at the edges.