Jeep fender flares are a bit different to clean than the rest of the vehicle. The fender flare is a different material. It’s attached to the car in a way that can lead to unforeseen damage, and can get beaten up when taken off-road. The fender flare can also lose its striking black factory finish, requiring not just cleaning but conditioning. A thorough cleaning can go a long way toward extending the life of a Jeep fender flare.
Things You’ll Need
- Bucket
- Car washing sponge
- Car wash soap
- 3 clean rags
- Vinyl, rubber, plastic cleaner
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Use the bucket, car soap and sponge to thoroughly clean and remove any dirt and debris from all four fender flares.
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Apply the plastic, vinyl and rubber cleaner liberally on the dry fenders using a lint-free rag, getting the cleaner into all crevices.
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Buff the cleaner from each fender thoroughly with a clean rag after it has had a few moments to dry; buffing with more pressure if streaking occurs.
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Repeat the process if a fender has heavy dirt or road-grime staining, taking care the area is dry before using the rubber, vinyl and plastic cleaner.
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Conditioning the fender flares follows the same process as the thorough cleaning, which is recommended for extending the life of the fenders and enhancing the factory black color of said fender flares.
Tips & Warnings
- Use cleaners and conditioners that specify they work on vinyl, rubber and plastic; brands such as Mother’s Back-to-Black and FOREVER Black have been used on fender flares without extreme side affects.
- Using a specific cleaning product besides just soap and water will extend the life of the fender flare.
- A conditioner can keep the fender flare looking like new as well as helping get more mileage out of all four fender flares.
- Deep scratches can occur if sponges or towels are not clean.
- Streaking can occur if the product remains on for more than about five to seven minutes.
- Be sure not to lean on the fender, as it can crack away from the car.
- While buffing, pulling on the fender can damage the fender flare.