Fender flares add a distinctive look to your vehicle and provide a little extra coverage for vehicles that have wider tires. Many factory and aftermarket flares are available and most are made from polyethylene plastics. Painting them can be a challenge because paints do not always stand up well on plastics. There are some paints on the market now that are designed to work specifically on plastics and even claim to bond with it. Check out your local auto parts store or home center to find these paints.
Wash the fender flares with a mild soap and water to remove dirt, dust or other contaminants. Dirt or dust left on the flare will cause the paint to flake and peel.
Dry the flares thoroughly with a soft cloth. Clean the surface of the flare that you will be painting with an ammonia-based cleaner to remove plastic treatments or waxes.
Mask off the areas around the flares using painter's tape and masking paper to keep excess paint off the body of your vehicle. Painter's tape and masking paper can be purchased in the paint department of your local home center and is much safer to use on the vehicle's finish than the older masking tape and newspaper.
Apply the paint to the flare using a slow, sweeping motion. You want to use two or three thin coats on the flares to avoid runs or sagging paint.
Dust or mist the first coat of paint onto the flare then allow it to dry for about 30 minutes. Check the directions for specific drying times for the paint you chose for your project.
Continue adding coats until you have achieved the color and coverage you want on your flares. Remember to let each coat dry before adding the next coat.
Remove the masking from the vehicle and allow the flares to dry for 24 hours to completely cure the paint.
