Fender flares are the extension over your wheel which covers the protruding wheels and matches the curves of the vehicle body. While fender flares are an optional accessory for most vehicles, some countries and states have made them mandatory in case your vehicle has huge tires. In order to help find the best jeep fender flares, we have compiled a list and a comprehensive buyer’s guide. If you don’t through all, then we recommend you Smittybilt 76837 XRC as it fits with all jeeps and has all the required features.
Best Jeep Fender Flares
1.Smittybilt 76837 XRC Black Textured
- Includes both front and rear fenders (4 total)
- 100% steel construction for extra durability
- Black power coated for immediate use and durability or can painted to match your Jeep
Smittybilt is one of the most popular brands for four-wheel accessories. The Smittybilt XRC Fender Flare is a popular unit. Straightaway you will notice the big difference between 76837 XRC and other fender flare and that is 100% steel construction. Most of the fender flare use heavy-duty plastic but this steel fender flare offers you different variations. It has a black powder coating to make it durable. We tested it on several Jeep Wrangler model and it is perfect for CJ, YJ and TJ.
When you buy the package, it comes with 10 self-tapping screws, 20 10 mm hex head bolts, 40 flat washers, and 20 lock-nuts. Hence, you have everything needed for installing all the fender flares. If you follow the instruction you can install it on your own. It doesn’t take much time. We tested it for different conditions. It can take all kinds of impact and last against different conditions.
We liked the use of steel for smittybilt fenders jk. Currently, it is one of the most durable fender flares in the market. Due to powder coating, it is completely weatherproof. Even of years of use, the coating lasts. The streamlined design not only looks good but maintains suspension articulation. There is about ¾’ between fender and flat.
- It is made of steel
- It is weatherproof.
- It is easy to install.
- Flexible connectivity
- The streamlined design gives a sporty look.
- None
Bottom Line
If you need a fender flare that is durable and could last long, the Smittybilt 76837 xrc black textured fender flare is the best option. Also, you can be assured of durability due to the best warranty offers for Smittybilt.
2.Hooke Road Front & Rear Flat for 07-18 Jeep Wrangler JK
- Hooke Road Solid Steel Flat Fender Flares for Jeep Wrangler JK JKU 2/4 Doors 2007 2008 2009 2010...
- The slim design provides extra tire coverage for larger tires while maintaining an offroad look,...
- Protect wheel wells from mud, scratches, sand and other outer damage; Covers up existing scratches...
Another quality Jeep Wrangler JK fender flares that is 100% steel, is Hooke flat fender flare. But it is suitable for Jeep Wrangler JK models. The package comes with a pair of flares for front and rear. Just like XRC from Smittybilt, it is durable and it is easy to install. The design is flat and offers it more of a classic look than sporty.
Though installation is easy, you will have to drill holes for the screws. Not everyone likes to drill into perfect Jeep but if you want to a quality drill it would be worth it. We have tested the fender flare for durability. It was exposed to stones, water, mud, etc. The fender flare perfectly keeps everything away from the body.
We liked the simple look of the fender and we used it for different JK wranglers. It is suitable for 07-18 jeep. But you can also use for different other models too as it requires you to drill the hole rather than replacing stock fender flare. Powdered coating very well protects the unit from rust. The manufacturer state that it can last up to 5 years. They have tested against salt spray to check its durability against the corrosion.
- It has 100% steel construction.
- It is easy to install.
- It works with most of the jeep models.
- Highly durable.
- You will have to drill holes for installation.
Bottom Line
If you are fine with drilling holes into a perfectly good jeep, the Hooke Road Front & Rear Flat Fender Flares is not a bad choice. Compared to other jeep JK fenders it is a budget-friendly option.
3.YITAMOTOR Steel Kit for 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK
- PERFECT FIT: Compatible with 2007-2018 jeep wrangler JK / JKU unlimited 2 door and 4 door models.
- EASY INSTALLATION: YITAMOTOR flat fender flares install using the factory holes. No cutting or...
- OFF-ROAD COMPANION: Completely protects your vehicle and paint from mud, rocks, sticks and other...
Some of the fender flares that we have tested require additional drilling or accessories to install. But with YITAMOTOR Steel Fender Flares Kit you won't have to do such thing. Everything needed for the installation is included in the package. Apart from installation, it is designed for Jeep Wrangler JK model 2007-2018. The fenders are perfect for off-road vehicles. The fenders are big enough to accommodate large size tires.
If you follow the manual and use the right tools you will be able to install the unit in almost two hours. We tested it under different conditions. It can handle the impacts from stone and other rubble which a Jeep encounters on rough roads. The steel construction can withstand the harshest of conditions. Another thing is fender flares are wide enough to keep the maximum splash of dirt away from the body. We also exposed it to muddy terrain, there was some mud on the body but fenders flares were able to keep the maximum of the mud down.
As far as the look of the fender is concerned, it does fit any off-road vehicles. We tried to use it on different models of the Jeep wranglers, it looks good on each of them. And as far as the durability of the unit is concerned, it is highly durable. The powder coating on the flare makes it last for years. Even the steel used in the design is made out of heavy-duty steel which gives it strength. Even if it gets hit by a heavy object, it doesn't bend easily.
- 100% steel construction.
- No drilling or accessories are needed for the installation.
- It works with most of the JK wranglers.
- It is durable and weather resistant.
- It takes an effort to install the unit.
Bottom Line
We like the fender flares as the whole package. Everything needed for the installation is included in the package. And we realized that it is perfect for any JK wrangler.
4. Bushwacker 10920-07 Jeep Flat Style - Set of 4
- RUGGED STYLE, REFINED QUALITY. Smooth Matte Black finish that can be painted to match with premium...
- DURABLE AND FLEXIBLE MATERIAL. The first and only flat style flares made to effectively absorb...
- INCREASED TIRE CLEARANCE. Adds protection and keeps you legal when running larger wheel & tire...
Bushwacker is another popular brand that offers fender flares for different vehicles. This particular unit is suitable for most of the Jeep wranglers. It is a flat fender flare that is made from Dura-Flex(R) 2000 TPO. It is a type of thick plastic which is flexible as well as durable. This can be used as the jeep wrangler fender flares replacement and it hardly requires additional accessories or any cutting.
While we were installing the unit during tests, we realized that it doesn't require much cutting or drilling but with some jeep models, you may need a little bit of custom work. Hence, it would be helpful if you hire an expert. As far as the performance of the unit is concerned, it works well in keeping the splash of dirt away from the body. Even in wet or muddy conditions, it will minimize the amount of dirt. Also, the fender flares don't come in the way during suspension articulation.
The material used in its construction is different compared to steel fender flares. It may not be as strong as the steel flares, but is highly durable and doesn't rust. Also, it is much more flexible which will bend rather than breaking in case you accidentally get too close to another vehicle or any other obstacle. And as you move away, it comes back into original shape which is not the case with jeep metal fenders.
- It is a flexible fender flare.
- It doesn't require any drilling or cutting for installation.
- It works with most of the jeep wrangler models.
- It is completely corrosion free and weatherproof.
- It is expensive compared to other fender flares.
Bottom Line
if you are looking for a JK flat fenders that is made of heavy-duty plastic, Bushwacker 10920-07 Jeep Flat Style Fender Flare could be a useful option. However, you will have to pay a little more than what you will pay for steel or any other metal fender flare.
5.Tidal Automotive Rear And Front
- Fits: 1997-2006 Wrangler TJ / 2004-2006 Wrangler LJ. Made in the USA.
- Heavy duty proguard plastic offers 100% UV protection with maximum durability and flexibility during...
- OEM Satin Black textured finish.
The Fender Flares with side LED lights may be an ideal option to go with jeep wrangler TJ version. It is a style by Tidal Automotive for 97-06 TJ Jeep Wrangler. These black matte fender flares are built with tough proguard plastic to beat the weather as well as harsh UV rays. The material is 100% UV protected with an inbuilt solution for great prevention. It has an outer finish of the Black OEM Satin texture that gives a clean and attractive look.
In a single package, you are provided with both front and rear fender flares which may be a perfect fit rather than buying single jeep tj fender flares for both sides. With a simple design, there will be no hassle in installation compared to other fender flares. Furthermore, the structure is also custom-made keeping in mind the difficulties faced while installation. All you have to do is tighten the screws after the right placement you can be assured that fender flares will take care of the entire rubble wheels throw at the body of the jeep.
The Dura-Flex 2000 Plastic material is known to be durable and of high quality in terms of impact resistance. Also, it comes with a riveted style for right matching with the mentioned jeep versions. However, you will need very little or zero drilling tasks with these fender flares.
- High-quality plastic fender flares
- Rear and front fender flares
- Side LED lights
- Custom made for easy installation
- Bolt installation
- Pricey
Bottom Line
In case your jeep lies between the mentioned versions, then you can go with this fender flare that is available for both rear and front design. However, you may find it a little pricey.
6.Tidal Automotive Rear And Front
- The YJ fender flare is designed to not only add a rugged, off-road look, but also protect the sides...
- Item-offered: 4 pieces aftermarket fender flares + 2 pieces side rockers + mounting hardware.
- Material: UV protected OE approved ABS plastic construction. Textured black (can be painted to match...
These Tidal Jeep wrangler unlimited fenders are perfectly designed flares to cover the jeep wrangler YJ between 87-95 versions. The design is made for rugged off-road style driving along with giving precise protection to the wheels. The package content includes two pieces of side rockers, 4 pieces of fender flares and some mounting hardware. So, you need to buy-side rockers separately for the purpose. Moreover, the material is also made up of high-quality ABS material that is durable and UV protected.
Well, the side rockers provided are totally an optional item to mount over the fender flares. As the product is made in the USA itself, so it is also pointing towards the building design and fit of material to be used on jeep. Moreover, the UV protected and tough material is unbeatable to mount on the jeep even in harsh sunny weather. They will properly cover the upper part of wheels and thus prevent any debris and dust from being collected.
They also provide extra clearance between oversized tires and your Jeep YJ fender flare. And, if the size of the tire exceeds 33 inches, you may need drilling as well as cutting of this particular fender flare. However, you cannot use these with OEM mounts. With the provided mounting hardware and side rockers, these jeep fenders are but easy to use and install.
- High-quality ABS plastic material
- Rugged style
- Protects wheels
- Black textured color
- Bolt installation
- No side LED lights provided
Bottom Line
The Jeep Wrangler YJ within 87-95 is best to go with these fender flares because you are also provided with side rockers and necessary mounting hardware for simple installation.
7.Hooke Road Rear And Front Tubular
- 【Compatibility】 - Front & Rear Tube Fender Flares kit Compatible with Jeep Wrangler JK JKU 2/4...
- 【Wild Design】 - Great looking fenders w/wild design style. Increases tire clearance for optimal...
- 【Offroad JK Fenders】 - Protects your JK from mud, debris, collisions and other trail hazards
These are Jeep Wrangler JK 2007-2018 Tubular Rear and Front Fender Flares by Hooke Road. Its overall weight is 73lbs. without any accessory or hardware. The wild and rugged design of these fender flares is perfect for off-road driving. Furthermore, they also act as a protective case to prevent debris, collisions, mud, and other trail accidents. It also offers the toughest option with durable stainless steel with a hard black coating material.
Its design helps for tire clearance that further goes best with optimal suspension articulation. Well, you will not get any kind of accessory as provided with other options. But the overall installation is simple without any requirement of drilling except the rear fenders. You just need to install them with bolts-on. This set may be a perfect fit for Jeep Wrangler JK versions mentioned above.
After considering the jeep measurements and your requirements, you can go with these high-quality fenders. The package also includes mounting hardware so that you need not spend extra on expert installation. The best part is that tubular design provides extra clearance and protection to the wheels comparatively. The outer material is ready for both immediate use or for painting if you want to paint any color over it.
- Durable stainless steel material
- A black finish which can be painted or ready for immediate use
- Enhanced tire clearance
- Simple bolt installation
- Great protection to the wheels
- Drilling needed for rear fenders
Bottom Line
These fender flares are best to go with Jeep Wrangler JK Models. Furthermore, if you are looking for extra protection and clearance, this tubular design may seem perfect for the purpose.
Buyer’s Guide- What To Consider While Buying?
The law says that the fender flare has to extend enough to cover the treads of your tires. Fender flares are required to stop and any rocks or debris to stop kicking back and hitting the following cars you. Well, if it is a necessary accessory why not jazz it up a little. But before buying or replacing your fender flares, you need to understand what you should look for in a good accessory. It is not all about looks, accessory needs to be functional too.
1. Compatibility
There are many brands of jeep wrangler fenders out there in the market. But it is not a one size fits all philosophy. Makers have customized accessories for each model, while some have a generic product for a particular brand of car. The easiest way is to measure out the contours of your Jeep Wrangler and go looking for the right size of the fender flare. Alternatively, look at the best jeep fender flares in the market that are customized to fit your model of Jeep Wrangler. Just as the clothes need to fit the body for comfort and looks. If the fender flares do not fit, then it’s a waste of time and money.
2. Material
Another important consideration before buying the fender flare is the material out of which it is made. Fender flares come in hardened plastic or sheet metal. Whichever material it is, it needs to last longer and weather well against use. Another important thing that you need to keep in mind is that good quality doesn’t come cheap. So, if you want a good fender flare that lasts long, you need to spend good money.
3. Look and Feel
4x4 drivers and enthusiasts are interested in this aspect just to show their style off. While fender flares are sold mostly in black, they can be painted to suit your requirements. This means that the fender flare can match your Jeep Wrangler.You need to confirm with your vendor that the flares can be painted. Or else classic black will have to do for till you change it next.
4. Ease of Installation
If you are one of those guys who loves doing everything on their own. Then this falls into the most critical requirement. Check the various brands for the easy and methodology of installing the flare. There are many brands that are useful for Do It Yourself enthusiasts. But please do ensure that you do understand the basic mechanics of a car. And are handy with drilling and welding. If no, then buy a pair of flares that are most suitable to you and your Jeep Wrangler. Take both of them to your mechanic. Viola, he will install them for you and you are one happy customer.
5. Types
These aspects are pretty common but there is one other area which you should be aware of if you are an off-road enthusiast. How many types of fender flares are available in the market and what is the use of each type? Just to give you a heads up, I will try to explain the different types of fender flares to you as simply as I can. For the uninitiated, there are 4 types of fender flares
a) Rivet Style
b) Extra Wide
c) Cut Out
d) Street Style
Do not be surprised. There really are different types of flares and each one does serve a separate purpose.
Rivet Style
These are the most popular ones in the market because of their muscular look and ease of fixing them to the Jeep Wrangler. Furthermore, they can be customized to any color you want.The main benefit, however, lies in the fact that they extend the coverage area of your wheels beyond the fenders. And provide great protection to the body from scratches. Secondly, they fit easily into external rivets or holes without any structural damage. Well what do you know; it makes a great addition to the rugged look of the Jeep.
Extra Wide
As the name suggests these are wider than the regular fender flares and are most suitable for vehicles having wide tires to travel on rough roads. The extra width helps in saving the 4x4 by bouncing gravel, stones, and mud away from the vehicle. And best of all they are customizable to your favorite color too.
Cut Out Fender Flare:
The cut-out flare works by flaring more than the regular flares. These flares work great with 4x4’s having very large tires. You can accommodate the larger tires with cut out flares. But these can be a real pain to fix into the body. As the older flares need to be cut out from the original position and these have to be fixed in place. A piece of advice, if you are not sure of doing this by yourself, takes the help of a mechanic. They can do this in a jiffy and you will be good to go with the least trouble.Cut out fender flares are definitely for those who love going on completely rugged journeys in their off-road vehicles.And boy, cut out flares and the big tires are sure to make other drivers jealous of your 4-wheel rig.
Street Style Fenders
These are the most regular and most common fender flares that are available in the market. These are not for very adventurous Jeep Wrangler owners. They are the ones who are not bothered with too much brawn on their vehicles. And don’t want too many changes done to their Jeep. If you want clean lines, not too much hassle, then the regular street style fenders are your choice. You will certainly not go wrong with this.
Final Thought
We hope the above tips help you in buying the right set of fender flares for your favorite Jeep Wrangler. You can always check Amazon for more details on specifications and current prices. Rest it all depends on your requirements and how much you are willing to spend on it.
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