Whether you’re driving a small Fiat Picanto or a Ford Ranger, every car has a fender and fender liner. Often, these parts of the cars are the ones we don’t really think about until they actually break. Out of sight, out of mind, right?
Well, the fender liner actually plays a pretty important role in your car, and if damaged, it would need to be replaced. Thankfully, because of where it is and how it’s attached to your car, this is something you could do yourself with a bit of know-how. So, here’s how to replace your fender liner if you need to.
How to prepare
Changing your guard liners on your car isn’t the most difficult task to do, but it’ll still require the right tools. Before you begin the process of replacing your fender, make sure that you’ve set out everything you need to successfully complete the installation. Here are some tools that you may need:
- A screwdriver set
- A ratchet and socket set
- A trim clip remover
- Lubricating spray
- A punch
- The new spares to change the fender
Removing the old fender
Removing the old fender is the first part of our project. Follow these steps to remove the hold fender or what’s left of it:
1. Take the wheel off
Let’s first remove the wheel to give us enough space to work. Like you normally would, jack up the car with your rotary jack or hydraulic jack and place it on a stand so that it’s secure. Then, unscrew the bolts and take the wheel off, placing it to the side out of your way.
2. Remove all the clips or screws holding the fender
Your vehicle’s fender is most likely held in by several screws or clips. Remove them with your screwdriver and a trim clip remover.
3. Remove the old fender liner
Once all the screws and clips are no longer securely holding the liner, you should be able to then pull it out. Doing this might require you to fold or contort a little bit. Either way, get it out so the arch is exposed.
Replacing it with the new one
Now that you’ve managed to remove the old fender guard, it’s time to get the new one installed. Follow these steps to install your new fender:
1. Clear the area of any debris and dirt
With the wheel arch completely open, this presents you with the opportunity to give it a thorough clean. Over time, dirt and debris can get stuck behind the fender, causing annoying rattles. So, first take the time to give the wheel arch a good clean before continuing.
2. Place the fender
Once you’re done cleaning, you can place the fender into the arch. If you aren’t able to slip it in from the front of the arch, then try placing it in from underneath the car. Here’s where you need to line up all the holes and fastener attachments to get ready to fasten the fender to the vehicle. Having someone around to help you hold the fender against the car as you line up the holes would be helpful.
3. Fasten the fender to the vehicle
Using the new clips and screws provided, fasten the vehicle to the car. Make sure that you fasten each section securely, but avoid overtightening it. If left loose, the fender might flap around in the wind, making some pretty irritating noises as you drive.
4. Put your wheel back on
Now that the fender is securely installed, you can put your wheel back on. Place the wheel in line with where the bolts go. Tighten them until the thread has caught, then lower your jack until the wheel touches the floor. By using the car’s weight, you can keep the wheel still as you tighten each bolt one after the other until the wheel is secure.
How to look after your fender liner
Guard or fender liners are designed to protect your engine and wheel components from debris and dirt getting in. As you can imagine, they are going to take a bit of damage. The best thing you can do to look after your fenders is to try to keep them clean. A build-up of dirt can make them less effective and even lead to them corroding. So, keep the clean if possible.
Final Thoughts
One of the fender liners’ main roles is to stop rocks, dirt, or any other damaging material from getting into the engine bay. It also plays an important part in your vehicle’s aerodynamics and fuel efficiency.
This is why having the right fender and installing it is so important. Follow the steps above, and you’ll successfully replace your damaged fender.
