Have you ever wondered what a car fender is? A car fender is a crucial component that ensures a vehicle is roadworthy. So, what exactly is a car fender? It is a part located above the body and near the wheels. Also known as a wheel arch or mudguard, it has a curved shape that follows the contour of the tire.
Since the fender is positioned at both the front and rear of the car, many people still confuse it with the bumper. It’s important to know that the fender is located directly above the tires.
With so many car accessories available today, it’s common for owners to add accessories that not only enhance the vehicle’s appearance but also provide extra protection to the fender area.
Functions of a Car Fender
The main function of a car fender (or mudguard) is to protect the wheels, passengers, and pedestrians. It acts as a shield for the wheels by blocking dirt, debris, and road splatter.
Additionally, the fender prevents rocks, mud, water, or sand from being thrown toward other people. Without a fender, debris kicked up by the tires could fly outward and hit nearby drivers or pedestrians.
Apart from the fender itself, there’s also a fender cover — a protective cloth placed over the fender and surrounding areas during servicing to prevent scratches from tools or sharp objects.
Best Materials for Car Fenders
As a car owner, choosing the right material to protect your fenders is essential. Using the wrong material can cause scratches or even damage the bodywork.
Rubber fender flares with metal brackets are one of the best options. They effectively block debris, rocks, and mud from hitting the body or splashing outward.
Polyurethane (commonly called PU) is another excellent material. Made from a blend of rubber and plastic, it’s harder than regular rubber and offers superior protection against impacts and stone chips.
Steel fenders are also a solid choice — they provide robust protection against mud and rocks, preventing them from entering the body or hitting nearby vehicles.
Although many materials are available, you cannot randomly choose one. Each car model and type requires a specific fender material for the best fit and protection.
Differences Between Front and Rear Fenders
Car fenders come in two parts: front and rear. While they serve the same purpose, there are slight differences in design and installation.
Front fenders are designed to be removable, secured with bolts. However, they can also be permanently locked if the bolts are welded or fixed tightly to increase strength and prevent loosening on rough roads.
Even though front fenders can be removable, some are welded permanently — especially those with chrome trim, turn signals, or decorative elements — to ensure they stay firmly in place.
Rear fenders are similar: they can be bolt-on or permanently welded. Welding is often chosen to prevent loosening and to better keep dirt and debris out of the main body panels.
How to Replace a Damaged Car Fender
Due to various road conditions, fenders can get damaged quickly. One way to minimize damage is by doing a fender roll — reshaping the fender lip from an “L” shape to a straighter “I” shape.
This process gives the tire more clearance, reducing the chance of tire rub and preventing fender damage over time.
However, if your fender is already damaged, you can replace it by following these steps:
- Remove all fender retainers such as screws, clips, and fasteners
- Carefully lower the bumper
- Detach all components attached to the fender
- Install the new fender in the correct position
- Reattach all previously connected components
- Tighten all bolts and screws so the fender doesn’t wobble
For easier and safer replacement, you can also take your car to a professional workshop. Mechanics are more experienced and can prevent accidental damage to the body or new fender.
Now you know everything about car fenders — their functions, materials, installation, and maintenance. Choose and install the right fender to keep your vehicle’s body protected and looking great.
