Jeep Fenders: Essential Upgrade

Hooke Road Fender Flares Review & Install

After over 10 years of wheeling with my OEM plastic fenders it was time for a change. Those plastic fenders were looking pretty rough—faded, beat up, and not built to last through the abuse of off-roading. So when Hooke Road reached out and asked me to review one of their products, I jumped at the chance to test out their Front & Rear Tube Fender Flares Kit on my 2015 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon.

Newly installed Hooke Road inner fender liners
& Fender Flares on Jeep Momma’s Rubicon.

My OEM fenders had served their time, but it was clear I needed an upgrade. The Hooke Road Fender Flares instantly appealed to me for their aggressive look, durability, and functionality on rocky trails. These fenders aren’t just about looks (well maybe 😁) —they’re built to handle the real-world demands of off-roading.

Key Product Features:

• Fits 2007–2018 Jeep Wrangler JK models

• Made from 1.5" diameter steel tubing and 16-gauge steel plate

• 11-gauge mounting structure

• Textured black powder coat finish with E-coating inside

• Flat upper plane with tube edge for rugged styling

• Increased tire clearance for better suspension articulation

Hooke Road fender flares
seamlessly integrated on my Rubicon.

First Impressions

Right out of the box, I was impressed. The packaging was professional and secure. The steel construction felt solid and the powder-coated finish was clean and consistent. These flares scream trail-ready toughness.

The Install – What You Should Know

I attempted the install on my own, and here’s the truth: it’s not a beginner install. If you’re new to Jeep mods or don’t have experience with rivnuts and metal drilling, I recommend enlisting the help of a friend or a local off-road shop.

Tools I Used:

• Ratchet & wrench

• Hammer

• Drill with 1/2" drill bit

• Aluminum 5/16" rivnuts, bolts, washers, lock washers (these were hardware that worked for the tool I borrowed)

• Rivnut tool (note: the one provided didn’t work well for me)

Steps I Took:

1. Removed OEM plastic fenders – easy. You can find those videos How to Remove the Jeep Wrangler JKU Rear Fenders and How to Remove the Jeep Wrangler JKU Front Fenders.

2. Installed Hooke Road Inner Fenders – highly recommended, especially in the front. These help reduce the number of rivnuts needed and improve fitment.

3. Lined up fenders with Jeep body and marked rivnut locations.

4. Drilled rivnut holes, hammered them in, and used the rivnut tool. I borrowed one from one of the technicians at my shop. The one provided didn't work for me. 

5. Bolted the flares on – the most difficult part was aligning everything properly. I used 5 rivnuts on each fender and they’re holding strong.

Turn Signal Lights:

The flares include a spot for side turn signals. I picked up a pair at a local auto parts store, but you can find similar ones on Amazon - LED Side marker light. 

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Super durable steel construction

• Increased clearance for better articulation

• Rugged, aggressive styling

• Protects against mud, debris, and trail damage

Cons:

• Not beginner-friendly

• Provided rivnut tool didn’t hold up

• Some minor fitment issues

• Might require custom hardware or adjustments

I absolutely love these fender flares. They completely transformed the look of my Jeep, and I’m confident they’ll handle anything the trail throws at me. While the install had its challenges, the result is worth it—especially if you’ve got the right tools or a helpful friend nearby.

Whether you're upgrading from faded factory plastics or building your rig for serious trail use, the Hooke Road Fender Flares are a solid choice.

👉 Watch the full install and review on YouTube here

What Are Jeep Fenders and Why Are They Important?

Fenders are protective panels covering your Jeep’s wheel wells. Their essential functions include:

• Debris Protection: Fenders shield your vehicle and surrounding traffic from mud, rocks, and other debris thrown up by your tires, preventing damage to paintwork and components. 

• Legal Compliance: Properly installed fenders ensure your tires are adequately covered, helping you stay compliant with local vehicle regulations.

• Aesthetic Appeal: Quality fenders significantly contribute to your Jeep’s rugged and customized look, enhancing overall style and personality.

• Structural Support: They provide essential mounting points for accessories like inner liners, lighting kits, and mudguards, increasing your Jeep’s functionality.

Limitations of Factory Jeep Wrangler Fenders

Although factory fenders might suffice for everyday road use, they fall short in off-road conditions due to:

• Material Weakness: Typically constructed from lightweight plastic, factory fenders easily crack or break when navigating challenging trails or encountering obstacles. My front drivers fender as well as my rear drivers factory fender both were damaged while I was wheeling on rocky trails.  

• Limited Tire Clearance: Factory designs restrict the tire sizes you can install, limiting your ability to upgrade to larger, more capable off-road tires without extensive modifications.

• Reduced Durability: Factory fenders lack the resilience needed to withstand consistent exposure to tough off-road terrains, necessitating frequent replacements or repairs.

Advantages of Aftermarket Fender Upgrades

Switching to aftermarket fenders offers several significant benefits:

• Enhanced Durability: Aftermarket options are typically crafted from robust materials like steel, offering superior resistance against off-road impacts and harsh environmental conditions.

• Increased Tire Clearance: These fenders accommodate larger tires and allow improved suspension articulation, enhancing off-road capability without requiring additional suspension lifts.

• Improved Aesthetics: They provide a bold, aggressive appearance, making your Jeep stand out on and off the trails. Plus, they won't fade like the plastic OEM Jeep Fenders.

• Additional Features: Many aftermarket fenders come equipped with integrated LED lighting, reinforced mounting points, and other practical features, further enhancing your Jeep's functionality and visual appeal.

Expert Recommendation

From my personal experience as a Jeep enthusiast and off-road adventurer, upgrading to aftermarket fenders significantly improves your Jeep’s performance, durability, and appearance. Brands like Hooke Off-Road deliver practical solutions tailored specifically to the rigorous demands of off-road driving.

Ultimately, investing in quality aftermarket fenders is a smart choice, ensuring your Jeep Wrangler remains protected, stylish, and capable wherever your adventures take you.