A wheel arch kit can do so much more than just make your 4×4 look bigger. It can not only give you more clearance and allow you to fit larger or more specialist tyres but larger arches also prevent those tyres from kicking up dirt and stones, which can lodge in your tyres and fly out at any time. The arches (or “fender flares” as there are also commonly known) catch these materials and protect your vehicle’s paint job.
Of course, they also look awesome and when it comes to affordable ways to add a little width and power to your vehicle, there are few better options. But when choosing a wheel arch kit for your 4×4, what exactly do you need to consider and what options might be available to you?
Make and model
Every make model of 4×4 is different in terms of not only how it has been put together but the size and overall design. That means that every wheel arch kit is going to need to be specific to every model of 4×4. For example, if you have a Toyota Hilux Vigo, you’ll need a kit such as this one from Kut Snake that is engineered specifically for that vehicle.
In fact, Kut Snake is perhaps the most respected brand when it comes to high-end wheel arch kits. They mostly specialise in heavy-duty flares and it’s worth noting that they do often require some drilling on the vehicle body to bolt them on. Other brands that we’d recommend include Rock Flares (which are an American brand with an ever-growing range) and EGR, which is the brand you’ll find supplying arch kits for most Ford and Isuzu models.
Aesthetics and price
How your wheel arches look is, of course, going to play a role in your decision. Most arches come in either a textured or smooth look and are generally vacuum formed with ABS. If you are looking to help them stand out, meanwhile, you could always choose a paintable set of arches and paint them yourself.
If you’re looking for the most attractive and durable material, however, arches constructed from high-grade ABS are the way to go. This material is not only incredibly flexible and attractive but is designed to withstand the toughest of conditions.
A wheel arch extension kit will probably set you back between £400 and £500, with £500 representing the heavy-duty top-end. This might seem like a relatively small amount when set against what it could bring to your ride but remember that you might need to visit a professional to fit it for you if you’re new to the hobby.
Fitting your wheel arch kit
How you fit your arches is going to depend on your model and what arches you go for. Kut Snake arches, for example, are generally bolt-on, which means you’ll need to drill them into the body of your vehicle. Cheaper options that can simply be stuck on are available but they are likely to fall off at some point.
Before drilling, leave the kit to warm up so the plastic is more flexible and follow the instructions included with your kit. A good wheel arch kit should also come with screws and rubber trims which are required for proper installation.
