Are you looking for a way to improve the look and style of your GMC Sierra? Fender flares are the perfect addition to add an aggressive, yet stylish look. They not only enhance the look, but also provide added protection by preventing mud, rocks, and other debris from damaging your truck.
This guide presents important information about how to enhance the look and function of your GMC Sierra pickup truck by installing fender flares. It will cover the benefits of adding fender flares, the different types of flares that are available, and installation tips for each type.
The guide will also include a list of recommended tools for the installation process. Whether you’re looking for a rugged look or enhanced tire coverage, this guide will help you choose and install fender flares so that you can get the most out of your GMC Sierra pickup truck.
What are Fender Flares?
Fender flares are a custom exterior addition to trucks and SUVs. They are designed to offer additional body protection by covering up the tires, which prevents mud, dirt and rocks from getting stuck on the side of the vehicle. This helps the truck look more rugged and provides extra shield from rain, snow, ice and sun exposure.
When it comes specifically to GMC Sierras, these fender flares not only add an attractive look to the vehicle but also offer an increase in tire coverage for an extra toughened appearance. Many models can be painted for a custom color match too, so no matter what kind of Sierra you drive, you’ll always have options when it comes to fender flares.
This kind of customization is often sought out by those who drive off-road vehicles or who don’t want their present condition fading over time due to driving conditions or weather damage. Fender flares for GMC Sierras come in both widebody and regular styles as well as OE style that surpasses factory quality ensuring perfect fitment and long lasting results with every installation attempt.
Definition and function of fender flares
Fender flares are an aftermarket add-on designed to extend the wheel well openings of a vehicle, providing an off-road, beefy look. They serve an additional purpose as they can prevent dirt and stones from spraying away from the tires and damaging your truck’s paint. Fender flares are available in several sizes and styles to match your GMC Sierra’s appearance, and they can also be easily adjusted to fit. Whether you want full extensions or just narrower gaps for downhill or rock crawling, with the right set of fender flares for GMC Sierra you can give your truck a completely custom look.
There are many advantages to adding fender flares to a GMC Sierra:
- Protection from Mud & Debris: Fender flares provide protection from rocks, mud splashes and other elements that might otherwise damage your vehicle’s paint job. The increased coverage also helps protect your engine compartment from road condtions.
- Increased Visibility: The extra width of fender flairs adds extended visibility, allowing you see better in poor weather conditions or off-road terrains.
- Improved Style & Appearance: Fender flares can help enhance the overall look and style of your truck, giving it a more aggressive appearance that stands out on the road.
Choosing the Right Fender Flares for Your GMC Sierra
When choosing fender flares for your GMC Sierra, there are a few important factors to consider. The year and model of your vehicle should be taken into account when selecting the right fender flare kit. Some kits may not fit certain models, so make sure you are aware of what type of flares will work best with your specific vehicle before purchasing.
Size is another factor to consider when selecting fender flares for your GMC Sierra. You want to make sure that the flares fit properly on each side of the vehicle, so it’s important to measure carefully and check that the flares are compatible with the size of your wheels. Fender flares also come in different configurations, so be sure to choose a size that meets your style requirements as well as any restrictions imposed by local regulations.
Material can also play an important role in finding the right fender flare package for your GMC Sierra. Flares made from durable ABS materials offer a more resistant plastic construction but may lack flatness or uniformity in comparison to other plastic materials used like polypropylene plastic or polyurethane foam covered with vinyl fabric-like material or molded rubberized coatings which are much stronger and more flexible than plastic products but tend to be more expensive. The effectiveness and durability of each material differs depending on the environment it is exposed to so research carefully before purchasing one finish over another.
Style and design
When it comes to customizing your GMC Sierra, one popular choice that can make a real difference and give your truck added curb appeal is the installation of fender flares. Not only do these enhance the look of your Sierra, but they also provide some added protection for all that hard work you’ve done in personalizing and upgrading it.
Fender flares come in a variety of different styles from a wide range of manufacturers, so finding the one that’s just right for you is easier than ever. You can choose from sleek designs with classic lines to bolder looks with an aggressive flair. There are even some specialty models that allow you to customize the appearance by changing the color or shape of the flare itself.
The materials available can vary as well, ranging from lightweight plastic to more durable aluminum or steel. Depending on where you live and what type of terrain you drive on, having fender flares made with more substantial material can be beneficial in providing extra stability and protection against things like dirt, rocks and other debris. Additionally, each type will require a slightly different installation technique so be sure to check manufacturer guidelines before beginning.
Compatibility with your truck
Fender flares for the GMC Sierra come in several varieties, and it’s important to determine which set is compatible with your truck. For 2019 models or newer, GMC offers OEM fender flares designed specifically for the vehicle. These offer a precise fit and look great with a range of paint colors.
Aftermarket options such as steel or vinyl fender flares can also provide coverage for your wheels, but you should take extra care to check compatibility with your particular model. Additionally, these aftermarket products may require professional installation to ensure precise fitting and high-quality protection.
When selecting fender flares for your Sierra, be sure to consider the material and function that’s best suited to your lifestyle preferences, budget and needs.
Installing Fender Flares on Your GMC Sierra
In this section of the guide, we outline a step-by-step process for learning how to install fender flares on your GMC Sierra. Before beginning, make sure that you have purchased the correct size of flares for your truck and have gathered all the necessary material and tools for the job.
- Start by using a screwdriver or wrench to remover any screws or bolts that are holding in your GMC’s original fenders. When removing screws, be careful not to strip them.
- Once you’ve removed the old fenders, lay out your new Fender Flares around the edges of each wheel well to get an idea of how they fit and look on your GMC Sierra.
- Then use a drill with a bit slightly larger than each flare’s mounting plugs to widen each predrilled hole as necessary so that they fit securely and snugly in place over each wheel well opening once mounted.
- Finally, use the supplied screws or bolts included with your flares to secure them into place on your GMC Sierra and enjoy the enhanced look that they provide!
Necessary tools and materials
Installing fender flares on your GMC Sierra is a pretty simple task that won’t take too much of your time. First and foremost, you will need to have the necessary tools and materials before you begin. These items include a clean rag, drill, screwdriver, marker pen, measuring tape, masking tape, sandpaper, primer sealant and touch-up paint. It is also important that the fender flare you are using is specifically made for your GMC Sierra model; this will ensure that the installation process goes smoothly.
Once you have gathered all materials needed for installation it’s time to proceed with adding an aesthetic update to your pickup truck.
Maintenance and Care for Fender Flares
Caring for your fender flares is an important part of proper maintenance and can help to maximize the lifespan of your GMC Sierra’s flares. The following steps should be taken to ensure that your fender flares stay in the best condition:
– Wash the fender flares regularly by hand or with a gentle car cleaner.
– Inspect the rubber gasket for any discoloration and replace if necessary.
– Keep the hardware clean and free from corrosion by applying a light coat of Scotch-Brite or other lubricant every few months.
– Touch up scratches with touch up paint specifically meant for use on fender flares.
– To prevent fading, apply a coat of wax to the fender flares every 4 months.
– Check mounting and adhesion regularly, tightening fasteners as needed, and reseal all connections with caulk at least once per year.
Cleaning and washing
Before you begin adding any fender flares to your vehicle, it is important to prepare the surface of your GMC Sierra. In order to get a good and secure adhesive bond with the fender flares, you must make sure that the surface is clean.
Start by washing your GMC Sierra with a mild car cleaner and water. Then use a degreaser to remove any oil or dirt from the body surface. After you are finished washing and degreasing, take an all-purpose cleaner and wipe down the area. This will help ensure there is no dust or debris on the surface when applying the fender flares.
Protecting and restoring
Fender flares are a great way to protect your GMC Sierra’s wheel wells and fenders. Not only do they guard against the elements, they also can be used to restore your truck’s original look or enhance it with a customized look. If you choose to go that route, there are a few things you need to know before you take the plunge.
First, consider what kind of materials would be best for your style and budget. Traditional fender flares come made from either ABS plastic or flexible rubber; both options provide excellent protection and will last a long time but may require additional care when cleaning or storing them for long periods of time. If you’d like something that looks more like metal, opt for flares made from chrome-plated steel or aluminum – these will stand up against severe weather conditions better than plastic and have an attractive luster that stands out from other vehicles on the road.
Second, pay attention to how the flares fit into the wheel wells of your vehicle so that you get as seamless of an appearance as possible. Neither ABS nor rubber are super-flexible; rather than try stretching them into place with your hands, use a crowbar (or similar tool) for ease of installation – make sure the protruding bolt heads align with the holes in each flare. Movement along any one edge should be minimal so keep an eye out for gaps between panels or at seams along edge-fittings and adjust accordingly if necessary before securing all nuts firmly in place with appropriate tools). You may also want to employ a silicone sealant (available at most auto parts stores) to ensure no moisture can seep behind each panel which could damage your truck’s body over time due to rust formation especially in salt-rich climates.
Troubleshooting common issues
Sometimes, minor issues can occur when installing fender flares on your GMC Sierra. However, many of these issues can be easily resolved in a few short steps. Here are some common issues and ways to resolve them:
-Improper Fitment: If the fender flares appear to be too tight or loose in certain areas, the installation may need to be tweaked slightly. Use a set of adjustable pliers to gently bend the flare into place.
-Weird Corner Parts: Depending on the model of your GMC Sierra, there might be certain corners you cannot seem to fit properly when installing your new fender flares. If this is the case, you will have to cut them off with a pair of aviation tin snips. The spots where you have removed material do not need to be filled as they won’t affect the performance of your fender flares.
-Dirty Flares: Your new fender flares may come with an excess dirt that needs to be cleaned away before installation can begin. To remove this dirt, simply scrub your new fender flares using warm soapy water and a soft-bristled brush. Be sure not to use any abrasive materials such as steel wool.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a set of fender flares for your GMC Sierra, whether OEM or aftermarket, is an excellent way to personalize the look of your truck. Not only do they give it a more off-road, rugged look but they also provide protection from road debris and UV damage from the sun. Depending on your preferences and budget, OEM fender flares can be made out of plastic or metal and come in both paintable and non-paintable varieties. Aftermarket flares are also available as well in various designs that allow you to customize the look of your truck even further.
Ultimately, fender flares are an affordable and easy way to upgrade the style of your truck while giving it additional protection on rough roads.
FAQ’s
Do fender flares add value to your truck?
Fender flares can add value to your truck by enhancing its appearance and protecting it from debris and road elements.
Are fender flares good for your truck?
Yes, fender flares are good for your truck as they protect it from dirt, rocks, and other debris that can cause damage.
How do you make fender flares look new?
You can make fender flares look new by cleaning them with soap and water, then applying a protective coating or polish.
Do fender flares improve performance?
No, fender flares do not directly improve performance but can help protect your vehicle and tires from damage.
What are the disadvantages of flares?
Disadvantages of flares include increased wind resistance, difficulty cleaning, and potential for rust or corrosion.
Do fender flares allow for bigger tires?
Yes, fender flares can allow for bigger tires by providing additional clearance for the larger tires.
Do you have to drill holes for fender flares?
It depends on the type of fender flares you are installing, but some may require drilling holes for installation.
Are fender flares just for looks?
No, fender flares serve a functional purpose by protecting your truck from debris and road elements.
How much clearance should be between tire and fender on truck?
The amount of clearance needed between the tire and fender on a truck depends on the size of the tire and suspension setup.
Should tires with more tread be front or back truck?
Tires with more tread should be on the back of the truck to provide better traction and stability.
See Also:
- Best battery for GMC Sierra
- Best rotors for GMC Sierra
- Best mud flaps for GMC Sierra
- Best truck tent for GMC Sierra
- Best all terrain tire for GMC Sierra
