Where is the rear fender located on a car?

[Catherine]

The rear fender is the exterior body panel that covers the wheel, located above the right rear wheel of the car. The fender is also known as the wing panel. Its function is to prevent sand, gravel, and mud kicked up by the wheels from splashing onto the underside of the vehicle during driving. Therefore, the materials used must be resistant to weather aging and have good formability and processability. Some cars have front fenders made of a certain elastic plastic material, which provides cushioning and enhances safety. The term "fender" originates from the shape and position of this component on older car bodies, resembling a bird's wing. It refers to a covering part on motor vehicles and non-motor vehicles. Based on installation location, fenders are categorized into front fenders and rear fenders. Design principle of fenders: Since the front wheels have steering functionality, the design must ensure maximum space for wheel movement. Designers use "wheel travel diagrams" based on selected tire models and sizes to verify the dimensions of the fender design. Rear fenders do not face wheel contact issues, but for aerodynamic considerations, they are slightly arched and protrude outward. Functions of fenders: Besides preventing mud and stones, fenders also reduce wind resistance generated during driving, contributing to the car's stability. Fenders also protect the chassis. During vehicle use, fenders are highly susceptible to damage, with cracking being the most common issue. Daily maintenance and replacement considerations: The side panels are not a single unit. Although exterior panels are less critical in collisions, they affect the overall aesthetics of the vehicle and cannot be simply repaired with filler paste. Gas shielded welding generates significant heat, which can burn off the factory-applied anti-corrosion coating. Areas not visible from the inside generally do not receive anti-corrosion treatment, and if done, it may not match the factory standard, potentially leading to rust. Replacing the rear fender may cause misalignment with the rear door lock, as manual welding and measurement cannot achieve the same precision as factory installation.