

Fender damage can be a big problem for car owners. It can happen from small accidents or big crashes. Knowing about the different kinds of fender damage and why they happen is important. This blog talks about the common types of fender damage and why they happen.
Common Types Of Fender Damage
Vehicle fenders are a crucial protective barrier, shielding the bodywork from damage in various situations. However, they are susceptible to their own set of damages. Common types of fender damage include dents, scratches, and cracks, often incurred through accidents, collisions, or even minor incidents like parking lot mishaps.
Scratches and Dents
Scratches and dents are frequent fender damages due to everyday scenarios like parking lot congestion or navigating narrow streets. Positioned at the car’s periphery, fenders are prone to contact with obstacles, such as curbs or other vehicles.
Scratches and dents usually occur due to several reasons, including:
- Parking Lot Mishaps: Tight parking spaces, careless maneuvers, and encounters with shopping carts or other vehicles can result in unpleasant scratches and dents on your fender.
- Road Debris: Flying gravel, stones, or debris kicked up by other vehicles can cause superficial scratches or dents on your fender, especially when driving at high speeds.
- Minor Collisions: Low-speed collisions, such as bumper taps or sideswipes, often result in minor scratches and dents on the fenders.
Also Read: Is It Possible to Replace a Car Fender Yourself?
Cracks and Splitting
Cracks and splitting on fenders are more severe forms of damage that require immediate attention. Typically constructed from plastic or rubber, fenders endure continuous exposure to changing weather, UV radiation, and mechanical impacts. Consequently, their structural integrity weakens, heightening the likelihood of cracking and splitting over time.
These issues can commonly arise due to the following;
- High-Impact Collisions: Major accidents, such as rear-end collisions or side impacts, can cause significant structural damage to the fender, leading to cracks or splitting.
- Corrosion: Prolonged exposure to moisture, salt, and environmental pollutants can accelerate rust formation, weakening the fender’s integrity and eventually causing it to crack or split.
- Age and Wear: Over time, fenders may develop stress cracks or splitting due to prolonged exposure to harsh weather conditions, UV rays, and everyday wear and tear.
Bumper Misalignment
Bumper misalignment, where the fender and bumper no longer align properly, is a common issue observed in vehicles. Often, drivers may graze curbs, walls, or other vehicles while manoeuvring into tight spaces or navigating crowded parking lots, causing the bumper to become misaligned.
It can usually be attributed to:
- Previous Accidents: Improper repairs following a collision can result in misaligned bumpers and fenders, affecting the overall aesthetics and functionality of the vehicle.
- Wear and Tear: Continuous usage and exposure to road vibrations can gradually cause the bumper and fender to shift out of alignment, necessitating adjustments or replacements.
- Poor Installation: Incorrect installation of aftermarket parts or modifications can also lead to bumper misalignment issues, compromising the vehicle’s structural integrity.
Paint Damage and Fading
Fender paint damage and fading detract from the vehicle’s appearance and leave the underlying metal vulnerable to corrosion. Common causes include:
- UV Exposure: Extended exposure to sunlight may lead to the deterioration of the paint on the fender, which fades and loses its luster over time, making the vehicle appear older and less appealing.
- Chemical Exposure: Contact with harsh chemicals, such as road salts, acidic contaminants, or abrasive cleaning agents, can strip away the protective paint layer, leading to paint damage and eventual corrosion.
- Poor Maintenance: Neglecting regular washing, waxing, and detailing can accelerate paint deterioration, making the fender susceptible to environmental damage and premature aging.
Also Read: Testing Auto Paint Job’s Duration – How Long Does Auto Body Paint Job Lasts?
Ready to Shield Your Ride?
Reach out to A1 Auto Body Shop Brooklyn team today, and let us give you the best fender repair services.. Your vehicle deserves nothing but the best – let us deliver just that!