Customize Your BRZ with Cool Fender Flares for Aggressive Style

An Introduction to BRZ Fender Flares

Fender flares are a popular automotive accessory for many sports cars and tuner vehicles. They serve both a functional and aesthetic purpose by allowing the use of wider tires and providing a more aggressive, customized look. One of the most popular applications of fender flares is on the Subaru BRZ sports coupe. The BRZ has garnered an enthusiastic owner base that enjoys modifying and customizing their vehicles. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at BRZ fender flares, including different styles and brands, benefits, installation, and more.

What are Fender Flares?

Fender flares, also sometimes called wheel well extensions or overfenders, are molded pieces of plastic, fiberglass, or carbon fiber that bolt onto the existing wheel wells. They create widened openings that allow the fitment of wider tires and wheels without rubbing against the vehicle’s bodywork. Besides enabling a more aggressive tire/wheel setup, fender flares also provide a sporty, customized look. They come in different materials and can be unpainted, pre-painted, or ready for custom paintwork.

Benefits of BRZ Fender Flares

There are several key benefits to installing fender flares on a Subaru BRZ:

• Wider wheel/tire fitment - Fender flares allow much wider tires to be installed without rubbing, which improves grip and handling.
• Aggressive look - Flares give the BRZ a lower, wider, more performance-oriented appearance.
• Body protection - Flares help protect the edges of the fenders from stone chips and debris thrown up by the wider tires.
• Aerodynamic effects - Some flares feature air channels and fins to optimize airflow around the wheels.
• Optional lighting - Some fender flares come with integrated turn signal or running light strips.
• Customization - Fender flares allow owners to put a personal touch on their BRZ's exterior styling.

Popular BRZ Fender Flare Brands

There are a number of manufacturers producing quality fender flares for the Subaru BRZ. Some of the most popular include:

• Rally Armor - Known for their mudflaps, Rally Armor makes durable polyurethane flares in styles like the “Scout” and “Tracker.”
• KBD Body Kits - This brand offers stylish polyurethane flares in designs like the “Ninja,” “Challenger,” and “Outlaw” series.
• Duraflex - Duraflex produces lightweight fiberglass flares with aggressively styled vents and fins.
• Seibon - Known for carbon fiber, Seibon offers flares constructed from 100% carbon fiber weave for maximum style points.
• Rocket Bunny - This cult favorite brand has an instantly recognizable look with pronounced rivet details.

BRZ Fender Flare Styles

BRZ fender flares come in different designs or “styles” to suit different tastes:

• Overfenders - Seamlessly extend the factory fender lines outward for a smooth OEM+ look.
• Bolt-on style - Mimic the look of an overfender but with visible mounting hardware.
• Rivet style - Feature rows of visible rivet or screw details for a rugged race car aesthetic.
• Vented/finned - Incorporate mesh vents or fins for accentuated airflow to the brakes.
• Widebody - Dramatically increase fender width and wheel clearance, require extensive modifications.

BRZ Fender Flare Installation

Installing aftermarket fender flares on a BRZ requires carefully removing the factory fender liners and any necessary trim pieces. The flares bolt into the existing wheel well openings using the provided hardware. For a secure fit, the mounting locations need to be properly prepared so the flares sit flush with the bodywork. Most kits include detailed instructions for the entire process, along with the necessary bolts, washers, templates, and trim. Some widebody kits require cutting or rolling the factory fenders, which is best left to experienced installers. The flares can be painted, wrapped, or hydrodipped to match the BRZ's exterior color.

Maintenance Tips for BRZ Fender Flares

Like any automotive accessory subjected to the elements, fender flares need periodic cleaning and conditioning to look their best. Here are some maintenance tips for BRZ flares:

• Rinse flares with water frequently to prevent buildup of dirt, grime, and road salt.
• Use a quality car wash soap and microfiber wash mitt when hand washing the vehicle.
• For urethane or fiberglass flares, apply a protectant like Aerospace 303 to restore luster and prevent sun fading.
• Inspect underneath the flares for debris buildup in the wheel wells and clean as needed.
• Check all mounting hardware every few months and tighten or apply threadlocker as needed.
• Touch up any chips, scratches, or scuffs with quality automotive paint.

Are There Any Downsides to BRZ Fender Flares?

BRZ fender flares offer many benefits, but there are a few potential downsides to consider as well:

• Added cost for purchase and professional installation.
• Aerodynamic drag may slightly reduce fuel economy at highway speeds.
• Some flares can add considerable weight, especially heavier materials like fiberglass.
• Aftermarket flares have a higher risk of fitment or build quality issues versus OEM.
• May require rolling/pulling fenders for proper tire clearance.
• Can be damaged by road debris more easily than metal fenders.

Conclusion

Overall, a set of well-designed fender flares can greatly enhance the look and performance capabilities of the Subaru BRZ. Popular flare brands like Rally Armor, Duraflex, and Rocket Bunny allow much more aggressive wheel fitments while accentuating the BRZ's lines. Proper installation and occasional maintenance will ensure BRZ fender flares retain their visual impact and protect the vehicle's fenders. Just be mindful of potential downsides like added cost and weight. Ultimately flares enable more personalized style and wider tires for better grip when enjoying the BRZ on winding back roads.

FAQs

What are the main benefits of BRZ fender flares?

The main benefits are allowing the fitment of wider tires for improved grip, providing more aggressive styling, protecting the fender edges from chips and debris, and enabling customization of the BRZ's appearance.

What type of BRZ fender flares should I choose?

Consider your budget, desired aesthetics, need for aerodynamics, and planned wheel/tire setup. Polyurethane flares from Rally Armor or KBD are cost effective. For lightweight race-inspired looks, fiberglass flares like Duraflex are popular. Carbon fiber flares from Seibon offer premium styling.

Will I need any other modifications to install fender flares?

It depends on the specific flare style and width. Most bolt-on flares require no extra mods. Very wide overfenders may need rolling or pulling of the factory fenders to prevent rubbing at full lock or suspension compression.

How difficult is it to install BRZ fender flares?

Most flares utilize a simple bolt-on procedure accessible to DIY installers. But proper preparation and adjustments are critical for correct fitment and alignment. Having an experienced installer is advisable, especially for more complex widebody kits.

What type of maintenance is required for fender flares?

Periodic washing, protectant application on urethane/fiberglass, inspection for damage, hardware checks, and paint touch-ups as needed will help keep flares looking their best.