What is a Fender?
2 Answers
Fender, also known as wing panel, refers to a type of cover component on motor vehicles and non-motor vehicles. Based on the installation position, fenders are categorized into front fenders and rear fenders. The front fender is installed at the front wheel, ensuring the maximum clearance for wheel rotation and bouncing. The rear fender does not face issues related to wheel rotation and rubbing, but for aerodynamic considerations, it is slightly arched and protrudes outward. During vehicle operation, the front fender prevents gravel and mud kicked up by the wheels from splashing onto the underside of the vehicle body, reducing damage and corrosion to the chassis. Therefore, the material used for front fenders must be resistant to weather aging and possess good formability and processability. Many vehicles use plastic materials with a certain degree of elasticity for the front fenders, providing some cushioning effect and enhancing safety.
The fender is the panel on a car that covers the wheel, technically known as the mudguard. Its main function is to block mud, stones, and other debris thrown up by the wheels, preventing them from splashing onto the car body and causing dirt or rust. I’ve experienced this firsthand with my old car—once while driving on a rural dirt road, without the fender’s protection, the car body would have been scratched by flying stones. Moreover, during rainy days, it helps reduce water splashes from the road, making driving safer for other vehicles. Nowadays, many new cars use plastic materials for fenders, which are lightweight and corrosion-resistant. However, don’t forget regular maintenance like cleaning to keep them ventilated and dry, avoiding mud buildup that could lead to rust. If the fender gets deformed in an accident, it should be repaired promptly, as it could otherwise affect wheel movement.
