What Does It Mean When the Fender Screws Are Loose?
4 Answers
It indicates that the fender screws show signs of having been loosened or adjusted. Below is more information about fenders: 1. Introduction: Fenders, also known as wings or mudguards, are categorized into front fenders and rear fenders based on their installation positions. They serve as a type of cover for both motorized and non-motorized vehicles. 2. Installation Position: The front fender is installed near the front wheel and must accommodate the maximum space required for wheel rotation and bouncing. Therefore, designers use "wheel travel diagrams" based on the selected tire model and size to verify whether the fender's design dimensions are appropriate. The rear fender does not face issues related to wheel rotation interference, but for aerodynamic considerations, it typically features a slightly arched curve and outward protrusion.
Once while driving, I noticed the fender screws were loose and got quite startled because it caused a buzzing noise that was both annoying and worrying about parts falling off and hitting other cars. Common reasons for loose screws: either the mechanic didn't tighten them properly during the last repair, such as when replacing headlights or doing bodywork and painting; or natural aging causes the screws to loosen, especially in cars that are seven or eight years old where increased vibration can lead to issues; another possibility is if the vehicle was in a minor accident, and the bumper area was impacted but not properly repaired, leaving the screws compromised. I've tried tightening them with a wrench myself, but you have to be careful not to strip the threads, otherwise, the screw might break, making things worse. If left unattended long-term, the fender can warp and leak, allowing water to seep into the gaps and rust the body, which would be expensive to fix. It's recommended to regularly check the condition of the screws during maintenance and address any issues immediately by safely pulling over or visiting a repair shop.
I noticed the fender screws were loose and I'm quite concerned, mainly worried about driving safety. Loose screws can make the fender unstable, causing shaking and noise at high speeds, or even detachment that could damage other vehicles. I'm especially cautious about this since I often drive with my family. Possible reasons could be simple negligence, like someone touching it after car washing or temperature changes causing expansion and contraction; or more serious issues like improper repair after an accident, revealing a history of body damage. I think if the screws have been tampered with, it's necessary to check the surrounding area for dents or paint color differences to rule out major collision risks. Safety first—don't delay. It's best to have a professional tighten the screws the same day to avoid issues during night driving. Additionally, loose screws can lead to water accumulation and corrosion of the frame, doubling repair costs in three to five years.
When inspecting a used car, I become alert if I notice the fender screws have been tampered with, as this often indicates accident repairs or modifications. Altered screws suggest the fender may have been removed—perhaps replaced after a collision or improperly reinstalled during DIY repairs. I check paint consistency and seal smoothness to gauge accident severity: minor scratches are acceptable, but major repairs warrant price negotiations. As a buyer, this detail significantly impacts both vehicle value and safety. I recommend bringing a magnet to measure panel thickness during inspection, ensuring no hidden issues, and advise against blindly trusting sellers to avoid wasting money.
