The Benefits of Using Fender Benders: Types, Style, Materials
One of the most popular large 4×4 vehicles in Australia is the Nissan Patrol. The Patrol is regarded as a utilitarian and tough 4×4 all around the world and it competes directly with Toyota Land Cruiser. The two of them are almost consistently topping the best-selling large truck charts. The Patrol possesses everything a tradesman or an off-road enthusiast needs, and with some small additions, it can become a true off-road monster.
The term “fender bender” refers to minor vehicle accidents, however, when taken literally, a fender flare can be a chore to replace it. It’s quite a simple accessory which plays a huge part in how your vehicle looks. For your Nissan Patrol, looking for Gu Patrol flares for sale online is relatively simple, thanks to the popularity of the model and make.
There are a couple of reasons to invest in an aftermarket fender flare. The most obvious one being your damaged fender that needs replacement. Another reason is functionality or looks. Aftermarket fenders are usually larger and accommodate larger wheels. Plus, they can be stylised to customise the look of the car’s body.
As aforementioned, Nissan Patrol drivers have a lot of options when looking for Gu Patrol flares for sale as they come in a variety of shapes and materials. The stock fenders usually are made from the same material as the vehicle’s body, which is typically steel. Some cars however, use aluminium bodies while others are made with steel and then reinforced with plastic or fibreglass body panels.
Metal is durable, offers high protection but it’s corrosive, expensive and heavy. Fibreglass is lighter, doesn’t rust and is cheap. However, it’s less durable than metal, therefore, it offers less engine protection. And lastly, carbon fibre is stronger than steel, corrosion resistant and is lighter than fibreglass, but it’s expensive and not widely available.
Furthermore, there are two basic shapes of fenders – flares and skirts. Fender flares “flare” outside the body, allowing for a wider wheelbase and improving the vehicle’s side protection. Fender flares are available for most different off-road vehicles and they’re made from tough composites which provide extra protection for 4×4 driving, gravel roads and other situations where flying debris, mud and rocks are a common occurrence.
Fender skirts were once common on newer vehicles, but are now mostly found as aftermarket additions. They extend the fender downwards to cover the wheel partially and this improves the aerodynamics by reducing turbulence and drag. Additionally, it offers mild improvements in performance and fuel efficiency.
