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Introduction
Fender flares are a great way to add style, protection, and function to a vehicle’s appearance. Many drivers opt to install fender flares as they make the car look more aggressive and can also help protect the paint from road debris. This can be especially critical if your vehicle is subjected to rough road conditions or heavy off-road use. But do fender flares cause rust?
The answer depends on what kind of material you go with for your fender flares. Generally speaking, if you choose a plastic (ABS) material for your fender flares it is unlikely that you will experience any rust due to their installation. ABS is relatively unaffected by high humidity levels, meaning it won’t corrode easily like metal materials would in certain climate conditions.
On the other hand, metal-based fender flares could potentially cause rust over time if exposed to air and water regularly without proper care and maintenance. The best prevention against rusting here is to ensure that all mounting components are properly sealed when installed, and regularly check them afterwards to inspect for any signs of corrosion – especially after bad weather or long periods of time not being used. Additionally, adding a quality wax coating can be very beneficial in helping prevent any water or moisture from seeping through the joints or crevices where the flare attaches itself onto the car itself.
In conclusion, while fender flares can offer many attractive advantages to the appearance of your car or truck, it’s important to consider potential rust issues when selecting materials – particularly if you plan on driving your vehicle in areas where precipitation is more frequent than normal. With proper attention and care given towards regular maintenance checks however, you should have nothing worry about when adding style with a set of stylish fenders!
Common Causes of Rust
Fender flares can cause rust if they are exposed to road debris, moisture and salt, or an outdated paint or finish. Road debris (stones, dirt, sand) can chip away at the fender flare if not properly sealed or treated with some kind of protective coating. Moisture and salt can lead to oxidation and corrosion of the metal which can then cause rust. Lastly, the paint or finishes on fender flares that are outdated or deteriorated can also leave them more vulnerable to rusting as well. To prevent rust and other damage it is important to regularly check your fender flare for any signs of wear and tear.
Detailed Discussion on Fender Flare Rust
Fender flares are useful additions to any vehicle, acting as a shield to protect the vehicle’s paint job and the wheels from dirt, rocks, and other road debris. Though helpful and aesthetically pleasing, fender flares can suffer from rust after exposure to salt, water and sun. Knowing why some materials are more prone to corrosion than others is key in protecting against rusting fender flares.
To begin with, galvanized steel or aluminum fender flares offer solid protection against rust due to their ability to form a layer of zinc oxide when exposed to moisture. However, these metals are particularly susceptible to scratches that may expose the metal substrate underneath, leading to rapid oxidation. Aluminum is also more susceptible than steel when exposed to salt; so if you drive your vehicle in areas with high concentrations of road salts for winter de-icing you should take extra precautions to keep the metal clean.
More resistant materials such as stainless steel or carbon fiber are great at repelling moisture and preventing corrosion; but they too can become vulnerable if exposed over time. In fact, small dents added during installation can provide traps where water accumulates and starts the corrosion process going again. Therefore it is advisable that manufacturers use quality texture coating finishes designed for outdoor exposure – like anodizing or powder coating – that create a permanent protective layer around the entire flare structure (more expensive than regular painting). Even if there’s minimal damage per flare material choice buyers should take special care in maintaining their components by washing them periodically with mild soap solutions and special waxes specifically designed for these types of components. This will ensure that your fenders remain beautiful for years!
Benefits of Fender Flares
Fender flares offer numerous benefits, yet their main purpose is to provide additional protection to your vehicle’s body and wheels. As a result of the width created by the flared extension of the fender, it can better protect your tires from debris or rocks that could be kicked up when driving. This will not only keep them looking good and free from damage but also prevent these objects from hitting other vehicles as well.
Another benefit of fender flares is improved aerodynamics. The wider stance the vehicle presents creates less drag, meaning you’ll experience improved fuel efficiency and better handling at higher speeds. Finally, fenders prevent rusting caused by water and salt that’s kicked up off the road. When water gets in contact with bare metal surfaces it can seep through into your car and cause rust spots over time. Exposed metal near your tires might be especially vulnerable due to tire spray, making fender flares even more important in areas where saltwater is prevalent.
Ways to Protect Fender Flares from Rust
Corrosion-resistant materials and finishes are essential in protecting fender flares from rust. Look for materials such as stainless steel or aluminum, which resist corrosion more than typical steel parts. Also consider investing in a high-quality paint finish that is resistant to rust. Choosing one specifically designed for automotive use can make cleaning and maintaining fender flares much easier.
Regularly cleaning and waxing your fender flares is also important to prevent rust buildup. Even if they appear clean, there may be dirt and debris hidden under the crevices which can cause corrosion over time. Additionally, applying a coat of wax helps to protect the metal from moisture and other elements that can contribute to rust formation. Refer to the vehicle’s manual for the best products for your specific make and model of car.
Lastly, it’s important to inspect your fender flares often for any signs of wear such as fading, chipping, or cracking in the paint job, which could indicate potential rust spots later on down the road. If a flare appears cracked or damaged, have it patched up as soon as possible before further corrosion takes place. Regular maintenance is key in keeping them looking their best and preserving their lifespan.
Conclusion
Installing fender flares on a vehicle can give it a unique and distinguished look. They offer protection from gravel, mud, and water being launched from the tires up onto the paint of the car. As with any auto-body part, it is important to regularly inspect your fender flares for rust or other damage that can build up over time due to exposure to the elements. If corrosion begins to form on the surface of your fender flares, addressing it immediately with repair or replacement is highly advisable as rust can cause long-term structural harm if left unchecked and could greatly reduce the valuable aesthetic benefits they provide your vehicle. Regular washing and waxing of your car are also essential to maintain its looks while keeping all components free of rust. With consistent maintenance and proper installation, fender flares provide an excellent automotive upgrade that increase style, protection, and re-sale value without increasing chances of rust formation.
