A warning about installing fender flares

[Camlt12010]

Just want to share my short experience with fender flares with everyone: they will accumulate dust/debri, and possibly salt underneath that could potentially cause rust issues later on.

I decided to install the Mabbet flares on mine to keep rock chips off around the wheels as I drive on logging/forrest service roads about once a month (and I think they also look great on the Mav). Took the fronts off (to prep for bumper removal/ DD fog lights install) after only a few weeks and with only about 15 miles of dirt/gravel road and found that there was already a good amount of accumulation underneath. This could be a serious issue for folks that live up north where they salt the roads in the winter.

I'm sure this issue isn't just for the Mabbet flares as all of the other aftermarket options seem install similarly. One way to prevent this would be to use some type of silicone sealant on the perimeter where there are no double sided tape installed. But as for me, I'm just going to leave them off and look into paint protection film around the wheels. I plan on keeping my Mav for a long time and I just don't want to risk any hidden surprises down the road.

Don't know about using silicone sealant ?? If you are talking about clear silicone caulk IMO and experience will be detrimental down the road.

Sponsored

 

[GoIllini1996]

A little late to the party here, but Thanks OP!!!

Just took delivery of a 24 Maverick XLT AWD last week and was considering getting the Mabett or Air Design fender flares, but after reading your post, cancelling that idea. I live in the snow/salt belt, so doing anything that is will speed along the rusting process is something I'd rather avoid.

Thanks for your insight!

 

[GoIllini1996]

Glad to offer an alternative. I'll be getting some of this in the near future.

Mike

MichaelHigh - did you ever install these wheel moldings? If so, any feedback on them?

 

[MichaelHigh]

MichaelHigh - did you ever install these wheel moldings? If so, any feedback on them?

Not yet. Hopefully at the end of this month or next.

Mike

 

[cyberdog]

I can confirm that using a thin bead of black RTV/Silicone keeps them nicely in place without damaging the paint. I've had mine on since shortly after they became available without any issue. - And I hand wash and go over with Adams CS3 or Graphene detailer often and would notice.

 

[rightmuch]

They don't really protect anything, just look good. That said, I'll probably pass.

 

[TwoTone]

Honestly thought this was common knowledge and people installing this stuff didn't plan on keeping the vehicle for long.

 

[Maverick2112]

Glad to offer an alternative. I'll be getting some of this in the near future.

Mike

Did you end up using this on your truck? If so, how did it work out?

Sponsored