Car wheel arch

Types of car wheel arch

A car wheel arch is a crucial component of every vehicle. It is the area surrounding the automotive wheel. The wheel arch is also known as a wheel well, and its primary purpose is to provide space for the car's wheels to rotate without the body of the vehicle interfering with their motion. Car wheel arches come in various designs, including:

• Full wheel arch

  A full car wheel arch is a design that encompasses the entire wheel. This arch protects the wheel from external elements, such as dirt and debris, ensuring its longevity and optimal performance. Full arches are commonly found in SUVs and off-road vehicles where wheel protection is crucial.

• Cutout wheel arch

  Cutout arches feature a distinct design where a portion of the wheel is exposed. This design enhances the vehicle's aesthetics, giving it a sporty and aggressive look. Cutout arches are typical in performance-oriented vehicles and custom-built cars.

• Flared wheel arch

  Flared arches are designed to extend beyond the vehicle's body, providing additional clearance for wider tires. This additional clearance improves the car's stability and handling, especially in high-speed and off-road conditions. Flared wheel arches are commonly found in rally cars and performance-focused vehicles.

• Retractable wheel arch

  Retractable wheel arches are a modern and innovative design feature in some contemporary cars. These arches can be extended or retracted, depending on the driving conditions and the vehicle's design requirements. For instance, the arches can be expanded for aerodynamics and speed while driving on highways and retracted when driving in the city. This ensures optimal vehicle performance in various driving conditions.

Specification and maintenance of car wheel arch

Here are some things to consider when maintaining vehicle wheel arches:

• Regular cleaning

  Clean the wheel arches regularly, preferably each time the car is washed. Wheel arch areas trap dirt, mud, and debris, which, if left unattended, can cause rust buildup over time. Use a sturdy brush with mild soap and water to remove the dirt.

• Inspect for damage

  Once the car is cleaned, inspect the wheel arches for any signs of damage, such as peeling paint or rust. If any damage is found, repair it immediately to prevent further deterioration.

• Rust protection

  Apply rust inhibitors to the wheel arches to prevent rust and corrosion. These protective products create a barrier against moisture and other environmental factors that can cause damage. Choose a rust inhibitor specifically designed for wheel arches and follow the manufacturer's instructions for application.

• Undercoating

  Consider applying undercoating to the wheel arches, especially for those living in areas with a lot of snow and ice. Undercoating adds an extra protective layer and can reduce friction with road salt and other abrasive elements.

• Avoid off-road hazards

  For those who take their vehicles off-road, be cautious of rocks, branches, and other obstacles that can damage the wheel arches. Maintain a safe distance from such hazards to avoid potential damage to the car.

How to choose car wheel arch

Before exploring the factors influencing the choice of a car wheel arch, it’s important to understand the benefits of such an accessory. A car wheel arch provides the following advantages:

• Protection: Vehicle wheel arches protect the exterior of cars from damage. This includes debris from the road, dirt, mud, and other elements that can damage or rust the car's paint. Without a proper wheel arch, these elements can cause irreparable damage to the vehicle.
• Enhanced appearance: Car wheel arches improve the aesthetic value of a car, especially in a vehicle with a modified suspension system or oversized tires. A well-fitted arch can make a car look more polished and complete.
• Legal compliance: In some countries, vehicles must have wheel arches that cover the tires. This is more common in cars with modified suspensions or larger tires. Fitting a proper wheel arch can help the vehicle comply with such regulations.
• Safety: The wheel arch protects the tires from damage. When debris or obstacles on the road come into contact with the wheel, they can damage the tire, leading to punctures or other issues. By shielding the tire, the wheel arch can help extend its lifespan and reduce maintenance costs.
• Resale value: A well-maintained vehicle can increase its resale value. A wheel arch protects the car from damage, helping to maintain its condition and appearance. This can be beneficial when the owner decides to sell or trade in the vehicle.

Now, here are the factors to consider before purchasing a car wheel arch:

• Material: Car owners should consider the material used to make wheel arches before purchasing one. Common materials include steel, ABS plastic, and polyurethane. Each material has its benefits. For example, steel is strong and offers great protection. On the other hand, ABS plastic is affordable and lightweight.
• Fitment: When purchasing a wheel arch, car owners should ensure that it properly fits the vehicle. This is because an ill-fitting arch can lead to various problems, including increased noise, decreased performance, and reduced fuel efficiency. To know if the wheel arch will fit the vehicle, measure the tire size and consult the manufacturer.
• Style: The style of a wheel arch is another factor to consider. Different arches have different designs. Some are smooth, while others have a more aggressive look. Car owners should choose a design that aligns with their vehicle's style and personal preference.
• Purpose: Different wheel arches serve different purposes. Some protect the car from dirt and debris, while others prevent rust and corrosion. Before purchasing a wheel arch, car owners should consider what purpose it will serve.
• Budget: Purchasing a wheel arch is a significant investment. Therefore, car owners should set aside a reasonable budget. It's worth noting that different suppliers sell arches at varying prices. Additionally, the material and style can influence the cost of a wheel arch.

How to DIY and Replace Car Wheel Arch

Finding the right car wheel arch repair parts is only the first step in completing a vehicle's wheel arch repair project. Car owners who are keen on saving money and cutting down on repair costs can go the extra mile and handle the repair work themselves. Before taking on any wheel arch repair work, it is important to assess the damage and determine whether it is something that can be fixed easily. If the repair looks too complicated, it might be a good idea to leave it to the professionals.

To do a wheel arch repair, the necessary tools will need to be gathered. This includes car jack and axle stands, hammer and dolly, angle grinder, wire brush, rust treatment, welding machine, car filler, sandpaper, primer paint, and top coat. Once the tools are ready, follow the steps below:

• Remove the wheel

  The first step is to remove the wheel. This can be done by loosening the nuts and bolts and jacking up the car.

• Prepare the area

  After removing the wheel, the next step is to prepare the area by cleaning it and removing any loose rust and debris.

• Cut out damaged section

  At this point, a grinder will be used to cut out the section that has been damaged. This will ensure that there is a clean surface to work on.

• Prepare repair panel

  For more serious damages where the entire arch has been cut out, a pre-fabricated repair panel will be fitted. Before fitting, the panel will be prepared by cleaning it and applying rust treatment.

• Weld repair panel

  The repair panel will be welded onto the vehicle using a welding machine. For newer cars that have been built using high-strength steel, adhesive can be used to fit the repair panel.

• Fill gaps

  Once the repair panel has been fitted, any gaps or holes will be filled using car filler to create a smooth surface.

• Sand down

  The filled areas will be sanded down to create a smooth finish. This will also help to blend the repaired area with the surrounding paint.

• Paint

  The repaired area will be painted to match the rest of the vehicle. This is usually done by applying primer paint followed by a top coat.

• Reattach the wheel

  The wheel will be reattached by tightening the nuts and bolts securely. Once this is done, the vehicle will be lowered to the ground.

Q&A

Q1: What are the functions of a car wheel arch?

A1: A car wheel arch serves various functions. It allows the wheel to turn without hitting the car's body, providing clearance space. The wheel arch protects the vehicle's bodywork from debris, mud, and moisture kicked up by the wheels. It helps maintain the car's aerodynamics and visual appeal.

Q2: Is it called a fender or a wheel arch?

A2: The term used to describe a wheel arch varies by region. In American English, a car wheel arch is called a fender. In British English, it's referred to as a wing. However, both terms are widely understood, so users can use any term they prefer.

Q3: Can damaged car wheel arches be repaired?

A3: Yes, it is possible to repair damaged wheel arches. The repair method depends on the damage's severity. Minor scratches and dents can be fixed using conventional methods. Rust damage can be treated by removing the rust and applying a protective coating. In cases of severe damage, such as large holes or deep rust, the repair may involve cutting out the damaged section and welding in a new piece of metal.