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Introduction to Fender Flares
Fender flares, also known as wheel well liners, are simplified additions to the car designed to cover up part of the wheel arch. They are typically made of plastic and sometimes contain metal pieces that need painting. The purpose of fender flares is to give your car a more attractive appearance and provide additional protection from dirt, rocks, and other debris which can dent or scratch your body panels.
Fender flares can be bolted directly onto the existing frame of a car or installed with adhesive. In some cases, they may even be necessary for vehicles that don’t have enough clearance for oversized tires which require more room in their wells.
Now to answer the question: Do Fender Flares Cause Rust? As long as you properly install and maintain your new fender flares, rust should not be a concern. The same way you maintain your existing frame and components, take good care of the fender flare including applying wax regularly so it stays protected from any possible water damages that could lead to rusting over time.
Benefits of Installing Fender Flares
Fender flares protect the paint from minor road debris and rocks that would otherwise cause unsightly scratches and chips. They also give your vehicle a more aggressive look and often provide substantial protection from dirt, road grime, and mud on the lower portions of your doors, fenders and quarter panels. While they may not protect against major impacts, they do deflect them away from the body of your vehicle.
Despite their benefits, if not installed correctly, or with poor materials or workmanship, fender flares can cause rusting in areas where moisture is trapped. It’s important that fender flares are painted before installation to help prevent corrosion from forming between any unwanted cracks along the surface of the flare. Additionally, you will want to take care when cleaning around them to ensure no water gets behind them where it could be sitting unseen for extended periods of time causing further corrosion damage. Taking extra steps such as sealing all edges can help protect against rusting caused by water intrusion over time and is especially important in areas with particularly wet climates.
Potential Causes of Rust on Fender Flares
Fender flares on cars and trucks can be prone to rust, which can cause the parts to deteriorate over time. Rust is caused by a combination of exposure to oxygen, moisture, and metal. Fender flares can become particularly susceptible to corrosion if not properly coated or undercoated with a protective layer. Poorly sealed fender flare-to-body seams can also allow water and dirt to creep into the inner fender cavities, fostering premature rust. Other causes of rust on fender flares include scratches and wear& tear from daily use, as well as damage from road debris impacts. If proper maintenance is not performed regularly, such as washing and waxing the fender flares every few months or whenever they appear dirty, this can encourage accelerated rusting as well. In addition, exposing the Flares to corrosive materials like destructive fertilizers or salty ocean air can cause them to quickly accumulate rust and decay over time.
The Difference between Fender Flares and Mud Flaps
Fender flares are accessories that attach to your car’s exterior near the wheel wells. They provide additional space for larger tires, including off-road tires, and protect your strong from mud, flying rocks, dirt and other debris that can cause unsightly dents and scratches. In some cases they may also help reduce the risk of rust by providing a barrier between metal body panels and road hazards.
Mud flaps on the other hand work differently than fender flares. Whereas fender flares attach directly the existing body structure of your vehicle, mud flaps are mounted separately on the underside of your chassis via brackets or clamps. Mud flaps provide an additional layer of protection against large chunks of dirt and small gravel by kicking them up away from your vehicle as you roll over them. While they don’t look as sleek or aesthetically pleasing as fender flares, mud flaps do offer more effective protection against rust-causing debris such as salt water and other corrosive solids from roads which easily fall off after coming in contact with a car at high speeds. However both fender flares and mud flaps must be inspected regularly for signs of wear and tear otherwise their protective effect may be greatly reduced or rendered useless in case of an accident.
Preventative Measures to Prevent Rust Formation
Fender flares can contribute to rust formation if not taken care of properly. Regular cleanings, waxing and sealing are very important in helping to protect the paint job from potential water and debris damage and ultimately prevent rust formation. Use an automotive brush or sponge to wash your fender flares regularly and rinse them completely with a hose. You should also invest in an automotive wax product specifically designed for fender flares, and make sure to apply wax at least twice each year. Additionally, use a sealant spray to help protect the finish of the fender flare plastic from fading or discoloring due to extended exposure to direct sunlight, humidity, rain and snowfall. Finally, take steps to check regularly for signs of potential rust formation along the edges of your fender flares with a pair of binoculars or a magnifying glass, especially if you’re seeing rust spots on other parts of your vehicle’s body.
How to Choose Rust-Resistant Fender Flares
Fender flares help protect the exposed areas of your car. However, not all the fender flares are created equal when it comes to rust resistance. To ensure you get the most value for your money when purchasing these add-on automobile accessories, it is best to select those designed with rust-resistant materials or finishes.
When shopping for a rust-resistant fender flare, check to make sure they are rated as non corrosive or “rust-proof” as well as weather-, dust-, and UV-resistant. Look out for a description such as “no drilling necessary” on the packaging of any fender flares you buy – this indicates that they will blend together seamlessly since no holes will be required to mount them. Many high quality ones also come with a black coating to further improve their corrosion resistance, which helps prevent rust from forming in the future. Also beware of cheaper ones made from cheap plastic or steel, which can corrode quickly over time if not properly protected and maintained against moisture and other elements in demanding driving environments. It is always best to invest in reputable brands with good warranties and stellar customer reviews if you wish to ensure maximum rust protection for your new set of fender flares.
Common Misconceptions Regarding Fender Flares and Rusting
Fender flares are one of the most popular automotive accessories because they can provide many benefits, including protection from mud, dirt, and debris. However, there is a misconception circulating that fender flares cause rust. This is not true. In fact, properly installed fender flares can actually prevent rusting by acting as an additional layer of protection against the elements. Fender flares also protect paintwork from corrosion and oxidation since they serve to redirect spray created when traveling through rain or snow. Furthermore, when made of high-quality materials such as polymer or stainless steel, fender flares provide long-lasting defense against rust and other forms of corrosion damage. Therefore, instead of saying that fender flares cause rust, it should be recognized that they can actually help to prevent it.
Tips for Maintaining Fender Flares and Keeping them Rust-Free
1. Clean your fender flares regularly with a mild detergent and warm water. Make sure to rinse thoroughly and dry completely after each wash.
2. Wax your fender flares on a regular basis with a high-quality wax, such as carnauba wax or polymer sealants, which help protect the paint from dirt, sun damage, and moisture.
3. Install rust-proof coatings to protect against corrosion and keep your fender flares looking their best for years to come. These products contain special compounds designed to guard against rust and prevent future damages from occurring.
4. Inspect your fender flares regularly for any signs of wear, such as fading color or discoloration, cracked paint, or surface rust spots that indicate early signs of corrosion. If you notice any of these issues, take immediate action by either replacing the part or repairing it with a specialized coating product designed specifically for corrosive materials like metal components exposed to the elements over time.
5. As an added measure of protection – especially if you live in a humid area – cover your fender flares with plastic sheets when not in use or when out in bad weather conditions like harsh rainstorms. This helps provide an extra layer of protection that can greatly reduce chances for rusting creeping up on your vehicle’s exterior surfaces over time.
Conclusion
The answer to the question, “Do fender flares cause rust?” is yes. Fender flares can be made from a variety of materials and many have exposed seams which can allow moisture to become trapped and lead to rust. The best way to prevent rust from consuming your vehicle’s body is by having gaps between the fender flare and the body filled with sealant and then have all exposed surfaces regularly inspected for signs of rust. Further, if your fender flares are painted, always keep them waxed as this will help protect against corrosion. Lastly, no matter what kind of material is used for your fender flares, ensure that they are properly installed and monitored on a regular basis to avoid any potential damage or corrosion due to water seeping in or general wear-and-tear.
