The fender is the body panel that frames the wheel well, designed to shield the vehicle and surrounding area from road debris kicked up by the tires. You'll find a fender on each corner of the car, covering both the front and rear wheels. On most modern vehicles, the front fender is a separate panel bolted on, while the rear fender is often integrated into the car's unibody structure and is referred to as a quarter panel.
The primary purpose of a fender is functional, acting as a barrier against mud, rocks, and water. Beyond that, it's a major component of the car's aesthetic design and a common area for impact in minor collisions like parking scrapes. Modern fenders are typically made from:
| Material | Common Use Cases | Key Characteristics |
|---|
| Steel | Economy and mainstream vehicles | Durable, inexpensive, prone to rust |
| Aluminum | High-end sedans, trucks, performance cars | Lightweight, resists corrosion, more expensive to repair |
| Plastic/Composite | Small SUVs, economy cars | Highly resistant to minor dents, lightweight, low cost |
| Carbon Fiber | Exotic supercars, high-performance models | Extremely lightweight and strong, very high cost |
Because the fender is a stressed panel, its alignment is crucial. A misaligned fender after a repair can lead to issues with the door, hood, or headlight fitment. When replacing a fender, it's important to consider not just the material but also the quality of the aftermarket part and the skill of the body shop technician to ensure a perfect paint match and fit.
