Ford Bronco Fender Flares: Style and Practicality
It's a no-brainer - you want to protect your beloved Ford Bronco's body from potential damage, and installing fender flares is a practical solution that makes perfect sense. When you hit the road, you never know what kind of debris might come flying off of your tires, and the last thing you want is for your Bronco's body take the brunt of the impact.
Whether you're cruising down a dirt road or navigating through rocky terrain, your Bronco is bound to come into contact with all sorts of obstacles that could scratch or dent a fender. That's why adding fender flares is not only a smart move for preserving your Bronco's appearance, but also for maintaining its performance and longevity in the long run.
You might think that factory fender flares would be enough to protect your Bronco's fender well, but the truth is, even with standard tires, the edge of your fender well and fender surface are at risk of damage and mud. And if you're a true Bronco enthusiast, you probably want to upgrade to wider tires that extend even farther past the edge of the fender for improved performance and off-road capabilities. While this is a popular upgrade for Broncos, it also means that the potential for damage to your fender well increases significantly.
Thankfully, there's a simple solution to this problem - upgrading to larger aftermarket fender flares. These flares provide a wider coverage area for your fender well, protecting it from road debris and mud, while also adding a touch of style to your ride. Not only do larger fender flares prevent your Bronco from getting dirty and keep it looking clean, but they also improve its overall appearance and make it stand out from the crowd.
Fender Flare Construction
When it comes to selecting fender flares for your Ford Bronco, it's important to consider the extra fender coverage that these products provide. Typically, fender flares offer an additional 1 to 5 inches of coverage beyond the standard fender lip. This additional coverage is especially important for Broncos that run larger wheel and tire combinations that require the extra coverage to remain street-legal, in compliance with applicable laws and ordinances.
While some sheet metal fender flare options are available, most fender flares on the market are made of high-quality, precision-molded ABS or other polymers. These materials are treated for ultraviolet (UV) light resistance, which helps prevent fading, chalking, or loss of resilience over time. This is particularly important for fender flares, which can take a beating from gravel and other road debris on impact, but are designed to maintain their shape and appearance.
One of the benefits of using molded polymer materials for fender flares is that they are resistant to rust, oxidation, corrosion, and other environmental damage. They are also precisely sized for easy fitment, making them a popular choice among Bronco enthusiasts who want to upgrade their vehicles.
While the base color of most fender flares is flat black, the surface texture is typically compatible with painting to match the color and finish of the body of the Ford Bronco. Some fender flares may also feature exposed metal faux rivet or bolt heads around the edge, which are typically made of stainless steel to prevent rust and corrosion.
Choosing the Right Fender Flares for Your Bronco
When it comes to selecting new fender flares for your Ford Bronco, it's important to keep in mind that these products are typically precision-molded for specific year and model options, including certain model variations like Badlands, Wildtrak, and more. This means that selecting the right set of fender flares for your Bronco is crucial to ensure an easy installation process and a finished appearance that meets your expectations.
In most cases, fender flares are sold in sets of four for your Ford Bronco, but it's important to note that the rear flares for the 2-door versions are different from those for the 4-door models. Understanding these differences will help you make an informed decision when selecting your fender flares.
When it comes to installation, it's important to consider the various steps required depending on the model variation you own. For example, some fender flare models are designed for "no-drill" installation on specific Bronco variations, while others may require minimal drilling through plastic or more significant drilling on metal parts. However, in general, no modifications to any metal body panels are required.
When selecting the type of fender flare to purchase, it's important to consider your Bronco's specific use case. For example, Raptor-style flares can match your Bronco to the performance appearance of the Bronco Raptor, while wider flares that boast the bolt-on look can give your Bronco a rugged appearance while providing additional tire coverage. There are also options available for those looking to simply add a little extra tire coverage in a more aesthetically pleasing way.
All in all, selecting the right fender flares for your Ford Bronco requires careful consideration of your vehicle's model, package variations, and intended use case. By taking the time to make an informed decision, you can ensure an easy installation process and a finished appearance that meets your expectations while protecting your Bronco's body from potential damage.
Fender Flares? I Don't Need No Stinking' Fender Flares!
But wait! Were you one of those kids who ran around with scissors, not worrying about the damage you could cause to yourself? If so, then a fender flare delete kit might just be the solution you're looking for. With this kit, you can eliminate the factory flare entirely, giving your Bronco a narrow profile that's perfect for off-roading enthusiasts who want maximum tire clearance and an agile, trail-capable profile.
The fender flare delete kit is designed to deliver a sleek, minimalist look that's perfect for those who want to showcase their Bronco's ruggedness and performance. With this kit, you can say goodbye to bulky, factory flares and hello to a more streamlined, sporty appearance that's sure to turn heads.
But keep in mind that a fender flare delete kit is not for everyone. It's important to consider the potential risks and drawbacks of removing your Bronco's factory flares, which are designed to protect your vehicle's body from road debris and other potential hazards. If you're an avid off-roader who's willing to take on the risks in exchange for a more aggressive, trail-ready look, then a fender flare delete kit might be just what you're looking for.
Image Credit: Bushwacker, TrailFX, Havoc Offroad