Ford F-150 Fender Flares: Styling and Function

Even with factory spec tires, the edge of your fender well and fender surface are at risk of damage and mud. Add wider tires that extend past the edge of the fender, a typical upgrade for F-150s, and the potential for damage increases substantially. The logical countermeasure to fender damage and body grime is the attachment of truck fender flares.  Fender flares can help your truck appear cleaner by keeping mud off the body, while also adding styling to your model.

Fender flare options cover F-150 models from 2004 to 2017.  Here’s the range of options by model year:

2015, 2016, 2017:  F-150 King Ranch, Lariat, Limited, Platinum, XL, XLT 

• Engines: 2.7L EcoBoost, 3.5L V6, 3.5L EcoBoost, 5.0L V8 

2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014: F-150 FX2, FX4, Harley Davidson, King Ranch, Lariat, Limited, Platinum, Raptor, STX, XL, XLT

• Engines: 3.5L EcoBoost, 3.7L V6, 4.6L V8, 5.0L V8, 5.4L V8, 6.2L V8 

2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008: F-150 XL, XLT, Lariat, STX, FX2, FX4, King Ranch, Harley Davidson, Limited 

• Engines: 4.2L V6, 4.6L V8, 5.4L V8 

Extra fender coverage ranges from 1 to 2.5 inches from the standard fender lip. Depending on applicable ordinances and laws that may apply for adding fender flares, the extra coverage may be essential for trucks running larger wheel and tire combinations that need the fender coverage to stay street-legal.

Most fender-flare products are made of precision-molded ABS or other polymers that are treated for ultraviolet (UV) light resistance to prevent fading, chalking or loss of resilience. 

That resilience is an important quality for the fender flares since they can take a beating from gravel or other road debris on impact, and not show any damage in most circumstances.  Being crafted of a molded polymer also means rust, oxidation, corrosion and almost any other type of environmental damage is not a factor and precision sizing means easy fitment.

In most cases, even if the base color of the materials is flat black, the surface texture is compatible with painting to match the color and finish of the body of the Ford F-150.  Those models with exposed metal faux rivet or bolt heads around the edge typically have those items made of stainless steel.

Since the various models of fender flares are precision-molded for specific year and models, right down to certain option packages (i.e. Technology package including lane deviation sensors and certain trim packages), it is very important to take that all into account when selecting which set of fender flares to buy.  That will make ease of installation and finished appearance that much better.  Typically, they are sold in sets of four for your Ford F-150.

Those option packages can affect the steps required for installation.  For example, some models are literally “no-drill” installation on some model variations (for example, Barricade Raptor Style Fender Flares for 2015 to 2017 F-150s except Raptor), while others may require minimal drilling through plastic bumper covers or more significant drilling on metal parts.  In general, however, no modifications to any metal body panels is required.

It’s important to consider the type of fender fare you’re purchasing in comparison to the use of your truck. Raptor-style flares will match your truck to the performance appearance of the SVT Raptor. Wider flares that boast the bolt on look not only give your truck a rugged look, but will typically extend from the fender, further giving you even more tire coverage. There are options for those looking to just give their truck a little bit extra tire coverage, but are more aesthetically appealing than anything.

Mounting hardware typically includes a pliable weatherstrip for the edge of the flare where it meets the truck body, any clips, fasteners and other hardware required to complete the installation. In the case of some Ford F-150 models, lighting may also be included so the fixture, bulb and wiring pigtail would be included.

Typically, installation is fairly straightforward requiring common tools, a drill, average mechanical aptitude and about one to two hours of installation time.

Depending on manufacturer and model of fender flares, limited warranty coverage can range from one to three years—check on that before making your selection.  Prices range from about $200 to over $800 and additional cost would be involved in having them painted to match body finish.  All things considered, the more aggressive look, added protection for paint and finish and ability to upgrade to larger wheels and tires, the addition of fender flares could be a very good investment in itself.