Tube Fenders

What tube fenders are

Tube fenders, also called armor fenders, replace the plastic or thin steel factory fender flares with stronger steel pieces. Some are open tubular designs, while others are flat or slim stamped styles. They let a vehicle run bigger tires with more clearance, offer protection against rocks and trees, and change the look of the vehicle. Several here are made for Wrangler JL and Gladiator models, as titles indicate.

Styles you will see

• Steel tube fenders: welded tube construction with open or partially covered designs. Often supplied as front or rear sets.
• Armor fenders: flat or slim panels with a minimal profile for maximum tire clearance, sometimes with LED turn signal lights built in.
• Inner fenders: rear or front inner liners that cover the opening behind the flare.
• Delete kits: remove the factory flare and fill the gap, often combined with other products.
• Fender flare light kits: accessories for lighting, which may be listed alongside them.

What to compare

• Location: front, rear, or front and rear. Quantity matters, with some sold as a pair and others as a set of four.
• Fitment type: listings that state no cutting or drilling are intended as direct bolt-ons, while others may require trimming of the body or removal of factory parts.
• Finish: black powder coat is common and resists rust, but chips can expose bare steel.
• Coverage: minimal fenders give maximum clearance, while fuller coverage keeps more mud and debris off the vehicle.
• Lighting: factory turn signal and side marker handling varies, so check whether lights are retained or supplied.

Installation and legal notes

Steel fenders are heavy, so plan for help during installation and expect the hardware to need periodic checks. Some designs require relocating or replacing turn signals, and wiring may need splicing, so confirm what comes with the kit. Tire coverage requirements differ by state, since many states require fenders to cover the tread to limit spray. Check your local regulations before choosing a minimal design. Strong steel also adds weight on the corners, which can affect handling slightly.

These parts are vehicle-specific. Confirm fitment for your exact year, make, model and body style, and review the manufacturer's specifications, then compare the products below.

Ownership and care

After installation, wash mud from behind the fenders so it does not trap moisture against the body, and touch up powder coat chips with paint to prevent rust. Retorque the mounting bolts after the first few hundred miles, then inspect them periodically, especially after rough trails. Steel armor can dent or scratch paint when it contacts the body, so use any supplied gaskets or spacers.

Consider mud flaps or extensions if spray and rock throw are a concern, since open fenders let more debris reach the body sides.

Tire clearance is the reason many people choose these parts, so measure before you buy. Compare the fender opening with your tire diameter and width, remember that the wheels move up, down and sideways when the suspension flexes and the steering turns, and check clearance at full lock. If you plan to increase tire size later, choose a design with room to spare.