Fenders vs Fender Flares, What's the difference?

The main differences between fenders and fender flares are:

Fenders

Fenders are the original metal or plastic body panels that surround the wheels on a vehicle. They are designed to cover the top portion of the tire and prevent debris from being thrown up. Fenders are part of the factory body design and come standard on all vehicles.

Fender Flares

Fender flares are aftermarket bolt-on extensions that attach to the existing fenders to provide extra coverage and width. They are larger than the factory fenders and are used to accommodate bigger tires or a wider stance. Made from materials like plastic, fiberglass, or carbon fiber, fender flares can be painted to match the vehicle color. The main purposes of fender flares are to cover the tires for legal compliance, protect the body from debris, and provide a custom look.

Installation

Fenders are part of the unibody structure and require cutting and welding to replace or modify. In contrast, fender flares are designed to bolt on over the existing fenders with minimal modification, although some trimming may be required for a proper fit.

In summary, fenders are the original equipment, while fender flares are aftermarket accessories used to modify the look and function of the vehicle's wheel openings. Flares allow for a wider stance and larger tires without major bodywork.