Where is the rear fender located on a car?
4 Answers
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.
After driving for so many years, I often get asked by friends where the rear fender is. Simply put, when you stand at the rear of the car and look directly at the rear wheel, the curved metal or plastic panel covering the wheel is the rear fender. It's not just for decoration—it also protects the car body from mud and stone splashes. For example, when driving in the rain, water splashes tend to hit that spot, and the fender helps block it to keep the car body clean and rust-free. I think car owners should pay more attention to this area and make sure to clean it thoroughly when washing the car, as accumulated dirt can corrode the panel. If it gets scratched or dented, you’ll need to take it to a repair shop for metalwork, which can be costly. In daily driving, knowing this part helps you spot issues early and avoid small problems turning into major accidents.
As a car enthusiast, I'd like to talk about the rear fender from a practical perspective. It's located at the rear of the car, extending above the rear tires, acting like a protective shield—designed to absorb impacts and keep out dust. I remember seeing in an accident that if the rear fender gets dented, it can prevent the rear door from opening because it's positioned right next to the wheel arch and the car frame. During repairs, it's common for bodywork technicians to inspect it first, checking for cracks or rust. Car owners should pay attention to cleaning it promptly after rain to prevent water accumulation from corroding the metal. Overall, this small panel affects both the safety and aesthetics of the car body, so don't overlook its regular maintenance.
When I first started learning to drive, I was also curious about the location of the rear fender. The instructor pointed above the rear wheel and said, that's the fender—it protects the gap between the wheel and the body, like when driving through a puddle, it prevents mud and water from splashing onto the car body. Its location is easy to identify: looking at the car from the side, the curved panel above the tire is it. I think beginners should know this to avoid missing that spot when washing the car, as dirt accumulates quickly there. Checking the rear fender for scratches during daily driving can help you prevent major repairs.
