Are you considering adding some rugged style to your Jeep Gladiator? Fender flares are an easy and affordable way to give your vehicle look and protection.
In this guide, you will learn the benefits of fender flares and how to install them. Get ready for a stylish ride!
If you drive a Jeep Gladiator, then you know that it is an iconic off-roading vehicle. However, one of the drawbacks of owning one is that its standard wheel well openings may be too small to add larger wheels and tires. This is why adding fender flares to your Jeep Gladiator can be beneficial. Not only will they give you the space needed for larger wheels and tires, but they can also provide additional protection from debris on the road or trail.
Installing fender flares on your Jeep Gladiator is a relatively straightforward process that requires just a few tools and some patience. In this guide, we will provide step-by-step instructions for adding fender flares to your Jeep Gladiator, as well as discuss what types of tires and wheels should be paired with them. We will also explain how to choose a set of quality fender flares that are designed specifically for your vehicle.
With proper installation and maintenance, these fender flares can enhance your vehicle’s road performance while protecting it from daily wear and tear.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Fender Flares
When you decide to add Fender flares to your Jeep Gladiator, there are several important factors to consider. Not only must the Flares look good, you must also consider their functionality and durability. Here are a few of the most important:
Material: The most common materials used for Fender Flares is ABS plastic, but there are also metal options available. ABS is lightweight and durable, but metal may be slightly more resilient if you plan to take your Jeep off-roading frequently.
Fitment: Before making your purchase, Measure your Gladiator’s wheel width at its widest point and compare it against the size listed on the product description of the flare kit that you intend to buy. Make sure that they match up- being even a half inch too wide or too narrow can ruin the look of your vehicle.
Style: The style of Fender Flares will be determined by where you choose to mount it on the car- if mounted above or below the wheelwell lip then they will protrude further than if mounted directly onto it. Determine which style best suits your vision before purchasing Fender Flares for your Jeep Gladiator.
Durability: Consider what type of environment and weather conditions in which these fender flares will potentially encounter over time, as this will determine how long they last before needing replacement Additionally, if you plan on continuing off-roading with them installed on your vehicle then make sure that they are made from a durable material such as metal rather than ABS plastic that may not withstand rough treatment.
Style
- Style – There are various types of fender flares that you can choose from, depending on your preference and the look that you are going for. Fender flares made out of ABS plastic can provide rigidity and strength, coupled with a subtle but stylish look that is perfect for off-roading enthusiasts. On the other hand, metal fender flares provide a more aggressive look with their polished metal surfaces and their ability to withstand any rough terrain. It all depends on you, but whatever fender flare style you choose will definitely enhance your vehicle’s look!
Material
An important consideration when choosing flat flares is the material from which they are constructed. The choice of materials can affect design, weight, durability, and cost. Here are frame materials for Jeep Gladiator flat flares:
ABS Plastic – Considered lightweight, flexible and easily paintable, ABS plastic will generally provide a more cost-effective solution for most applications. It is also resistant to chipping and cracking unlike other less-expensive composite materials.
Fiberglass – Fiberglass offers an extremely strong and rigid frame with added rust protection which is less common in composite models. However fiberglasswill not provide as much noise reduction as other materials as well add a significant amount of weight to your Jeep Gladiator build if you opt to go this route.
Aluminum – A lightweight yet durable material, aluminum allows customizability at a fraction of the cost compared to high-end composite designs while still providing plenty of rust protection against harsh climates. However it still doesn’t offer near the noise reduction when compared to composites or plastic frames.
Functionality
Functionality is a key factor to consider when selecting fender flares. The name of the game here is protection and your selection should adequately provide coverage, giving you peace of mind while driving.
Fender flares help protect your Gladiator’s exposed wheels, tires, brakes and other exposed components from dirt, rocks, mud and other road debris kicked up in the air. Depending on their design and construction materials, some options offer better coverage and durability than others.
Lightweight fender flares are made of a soft rubber material such as ABS or PVC that offers some degree of protection without adding too much weight to your Gladiator. For more serious off-roading, metal-based flares with UV protection can provide additional strength and durability that will hold up against rugged terrain.
No matter which option you choose, be sure to confirm that the flares are designed specifically for the Jeep Gladiator model before making a purchase.
III. Steps to Install Fender Flares
III. Steps to Install Fender Flares: Installing new fender flares onto your Jeep Gladiator is a relatively simple process that can make all the difference in your vehicle’s appearance and performance. It’s important to understand the steps involved in this installation process before starting. This guide details all of the necessary steps for accurate installation of your new fender flares onto your Gladiator.
- Prepare Your Vehicle: Make sure that the bumper and wheel wells are free from dirt, debris, or old paint chips that could affect the installation process. Remove any existing clips or fasteners from wheel wells and use a wrench to loosen any remaining screws or bolts around them.
- Install Mounting Brackets: To mount your flare securely, install each mounting bracket into position on the wheel well using nuts and bolts provided with your kit of flares, as instructed by manufacturer specs specific to your model of Jeep Gladiator vehicle.
- Secure Fenders to Mounting Brackets: Once brackets are screwed in place, slide each flare into its mounting bracket and use supplied bolts again to secure it firmly (ball-in-socket style). Make sure that each one is facing outward so that they will properly cover tires when installed properly.
- Insert Fasteners into Holes: Ensure bolt holes line up on fender flap and insert fasteners provided by kit into open slots on side wheels wells near wheel spokes . These bolts should be tightened until secure but not overly so as this could cause distorts in shape of flares over time due to tension/pressure applied during wheel rotation when driving or off-roading sessions..
- Double Check Fitment: Once tightened down fully, take a few minutes time to double check fitment before putting wheels back on jeepbed (make sure there are no gaps or misalignments between flair edge/bumper edge). If everything looks good – you’re all set!
Preparation
Before installing your new fender flares on your Jeep Gladiator, it is important to take some time to prepare both the vehicle and its new parts. This preparation will ensure that your installation process is a success, and that you will be left with a durable result.
In order to begin the preparation process, make sure that your vehicle is clean and free of any dirt or dust. This will make the job much easier when it comes time to attach the fender flares. Next, check the fitment of your flares to ensure they are correctly sized for your Jeep. You can also take a moment now to check the materials used in constructing them – metal? plastic? fiberglass? Additionally, you should make sure you have assembled all necessary tools and hardware for installation prior to beginning. Finally, follow all manufacturer supplied instructions included with your flares for preparation and mounting procedures specifically recommended for your particular flare kit before beginning installation.
Installation
Installation of the fender flares is a simple process that anyone can do at home. Before you begin, make sure the fender flares are the correct size and fitment for your Jeep Gladiator. Make sure the weather conditions are favorable and any tools you will need are on hand.
The first step is to start by removing any existing trim clips, screws, nuts or other fasteners on your Gladiator’s fenders so they can be replaced with new ones that came with the kit. Gently pry up each clip one at a time until all fasteners are removed.
Next, attach new clips to your truck where needed using pliers, a screwdriver or pair of channel locks. You may need to slightly bend pieces of metal so that the clip lays flat against your Gladiator’s body surface without obstructing openings or creases in the metal sheet. Once it’s properly aligned and attached, screw in each clip securely using a 3/8-inch wrench or socket driver for a snug fit.
Now attach the bottom edge of each fender flare onto your Gladiator by aligning it with the bottom lip of seam above it and pressing firmly into place using both hands until all pieces fit snugly against one another. Finally, secure each piece with screws and nuts included in your kit until they are fully secured against body panels around them.
Finishing Touches
Once you’ve fitted the fender flares to your Jeep Gladiator, you’ll want to finish the job off with a few finishing touches. These are minor tasks that will help keep your new fender flares looking their best and maximize their longevity:
– Make sure the hardware is tightened correctly and securely. This will ensure optimal use of your new fender flares.
– Use sealant around the brackets and screws, where necessary, to protect against the elements.
– To save time when washing your Jeep, spray some car wax or other protective glass protection on the fender flares to keep them looking shiny and new for longer.
– Double-check all remaining attachments at regular intervals and tighten as necessary to ensure maximum security of your new upgraded parts.
Maintenance and Care for Fender Flares
Fender flares are sturdy and designed to withstand the toughest trails and any harsh weather conditions, but they still require good maintenance and care to ensure they last. To keep your fender flares looking great:
-Avoid harsh chemicals and cleaners; use a mild soap and water solution.
-Periodically inspect the sealant holding your fender flares in place in order to ensure proper adhesion.
-Be sure to regularly remove any accumulated dirt or mud with a soft brush.
-Keep a polish cloth handy to prevent fading from UV exposure.
-When storing, keep the parts in clean, dry environments away from heat sources or direct sunlight.
-Make it a point to repair any cracks or dents as soon as possible to avoid rust damage.
These simple steps should help you extend the life of your fender flares and make sure that they continue protecting your Jeep Gladiator for years!
Cleaning the Fender Flares
Before attaching your new fender flares, it is important to clean the area around the wheel wells on your Jeep Gladiator. Dirt and debris can accumulate in the wheel well areas, making it difficult to attach the new flares.
Make sure that you use a soft brush and a mild soap such as dish soap to reach all of the dirt and dust that has collected in those hard-to-reach places. If you are having trouble scrubbing off any accumulated dirt or grease, you can use a stronger solvent such as rubbing alcohol for more stubborn grit.
Once you have finished cleaning, rinse off any excess soap residue from everywhere it may have gotten too close with clean water. If necessary, gently dry any parts near where you will be mounting with a toweled cloth.
Before mounting, also take extra care to make sure that any surfaces which will come into contact with your new fender flares will not scratch them during installation.
Inspecting for Damage
Once you have your fender flares and other necessary tools, you can begin the process of installing them onto your Jeep Gladiator. Before you begin, it is important that you inspect the area where the fender flares will attach for any signs of damage. If there is damage present, this may cause the installation to be unsuccessful, as well as detract from the overall look of your vehicle.
When inspecting for damage, pay close attention to gaps between the body panels and make sure nothing looks out of place. Any rust or corrosion can also affect how well your fender flares adhere to your Gladiator so make sure to clean this off with a wire brush before proceeding. With all of these issues taken care of, you are now ready to start installing your fender flares!
Repairing and Replacing Fender Flares
If you have older flares on your Jeep Gladiator that need repair or replacement, you may find that it is easier and less expensive to simply replace them with new ones. Before you make a purchase, however, it’s important to understand the various factors that contribute to the durability and aesthetics of your fender flares. The following information should make navigating your options easier.
When shopping for new fender flares, consider the material they are made out of as well as any additional features or accessories they may have. Many manufacturers create fender flares in a variety of materials including plastic, aluminum and carbon fiber. Plastic flares are usually the most affordable option; however, they often need to be replaced more frequently than other types. Aluminum and carbon fiber flares offer higher strength and better durability at a higher price point; aluminum tends to be heavy-duty yet lightweight while carbon fiber offers more visual appeal with its glossy finish. Additionally, some brands offer accessories such as mud flaps or brackets. These additions can provide extra protection against mud and debris kicked up by your tires while also adding an aesthetic touch to your vehicle’s exterior.
Finally, it’s important to check that the new fender flares you choose fit properly on your Jeep Gladiator without obstructing wheel access ports or other features present on the exterior of your vehicle — take care when measuring any model before making a purchase if needed in order to ensure maximum functionality during installation. With careful consideration of all these factors, you can easily upgrade or replace existing fender flares on your Gladiator within budget and according to taste!
Conclusion
Adding fender flares to your Jeep Gladiator is an easy way to customize your vehicle and protect it from mud, dirt, water, and other environmental hazards. The installation process is fairly straightforward and requires only basic tools. Fender flares come in a variety of colors and styles so they look great on any type of vehicle.
By following this guide, you’ll be able to find the perfect set of flares for your Jeep Gladiator that make it look even more awesome! With the added protection these provide, you can rest easy knowing that your investment is shielded from the elements.
FAQ’s
Are fender flares easy to put on?
It depends on the type of fender flares and your experience with car modifications.
Should I add fender flares?
It depends on your personal preference and the type of driving you do. Fender flares can provide additional tire coverage and protection from debris.
Do fender flares improve performance?
No, fender flares do not directly improve performance. However, they can provide additional tire clearance for larger wheels and tires.
How do you install fender flares without drilling?
You can install fender flares without drilling by using adhesive tape or clips. Make sure to choose the appropriate method for your vehicle and fender flares.
Can you put fender flares over rust?
It is not recommended to install fender flares over rust as the rust may spread and compromise the integrity of the fender flares.
Can you put fender flares without bolting?
Yes, fender flares can be installed without bolting by using adhesive tape or clips. However, bolting may provide a more secure installation.
Are fender flares just for looks?
No, fender flares can provide additional tire coverage and protection from debris. They can also accommodate larger wheels and tires.
Can you glue on fender flares?
Yes, fender flares can be glued onto a vehicle. However, it is recommended to use additional methods of attachment, such as screws or bolts, for added security.
How do you install aftermarket fender flares?
The installation process for aftermarket fender flares may vary depending on the specific make and model of the vehicle. However, in general, the process involves removing the factory fender flares, test-fitting the new flares, drilling holes if necessary, and then attaching the new flares with screws or bolts.
Can you paint factory fender flares?
Yes, factory fender flares can be painted to match the color of a vehicle. However, it is important to properly clean and prepare the surface before painting, and to use the appropriate type of paint and primer for the material of the flares.
See Also-
- Best air filter for jeep gladiator
- Best mud flaps for jeep gladiator
- Best tires for jeep gladiator
- Best all terrain tire for jeep gladiator
- Best nerf bars for jeep gladiator
