What Material Are BMW Fenders Made Of?
2 Answers
Automobile fenders can be made of plastic, steel plates, or aluminum alloy materials. Definition of Fenders: Fenders, also known as wings, are the outer body panels that cover the wheels. Based on their installation position, they are divided into front fenders and rear fenders. Function of Fenders: Their function is to utilize fluid dynamics to reduce the drag coefficient, making the vehicle more stable during driving. The front fenders are installed at the front wheels. Since the front wheels have steering functionality, they must ensure the maximum extreme space when the front wheels turn. Therefore, designers use "wheel travel diagrams" based on the selected tire model and size to verify the design dimensions of the fenders.
As a veteran mechanic with over a decade of experience, I've seen many BMW fenders, most of which are made of aluminum alloy. The advantage is they're lightweight, reducing the car's overall weight by about ten kilograms, making acceleration quicker and more agile, plus saving a good amount of fuel. However, aluminum is softer and more prone to dents when hitting poles or stones, not as tough as steel, and repairs can be costly—replacing a single panel might cost over a thousand bucks. The newer 5 Series or X Series models are all aluminum now, while some older 3 Series might still use steel. When choosing a car, don’t just focus on looks—the material affects daily maintenance and insurance rates. If you get a scrape, it’s best to take it to a professional shop for repairs. Regular maintenance is key to preventing small damages from turning into big issues. Safety first, after all.