How to Choose Fender Flare Extensions for Jeep Wrangler JL and Gladiator JT

Fender flare extensions can provide additional tire coverage and give a Jeep a wider, more finished appearance. However, not every extension fits every Wrangler JL, JLU or Gladiator JT.

Before ordering, you need to identify the vehicle, model year and factory fender flare style. Standard low fenders and Rubicon-style high-clearance fenders use different shapes and mounting locations, so the extensions are not interchangeable.

Quick Fitment Checklist

Confirm these details before purchasing:

Check	What to Confirm
Vehicle	Wrangler JL, Wrangler JLU or Gladiator JT
Model year	Verify the exact year listed on the product page
Body style	2-door, 4-door or pickup
Fender type	Standard/low or Rubicon high-clearance
Installation	Factory mounting points, clips, rivets or drilling
Coverage	Required additional width
Package	Front only, rear only or complete front-and-rear set

Do not order based only on the vehicle year or product image.

Fender Flares vs. Fender Flare Extensions

A fender flare is the main body panel surrounding the wheel opening. A fender flare extension attaches to the outer edge or lower portion of the existing flare to increase coverage.

Extensions are commonly used when:

• Wider wheels or tires extend beyond the factory flare

• A customer wants additional splash and debris protection

• A wider exterior appearance is preferred

• Local inspection rules require more tire-tread coverage

Vehicle-equipment regulations vary by location. Confirm applicable requirements before purchasing or modifying the vehicle.

Standard Low Fender Flares

Standard or low fender flares sit closer to the tire and generally have a lower wheel-opening profile than Rubicon high-clearance flares.

They are commonly found on select Wrangler JL, JLU and Gladiator JT configurations, including some Sport and Sahara applications. Actual equipment can vary by year, trim and previous vehicle modifications.

Choose a low-fender extension only when the shape shown in the product photos matches the existing flare on the vehicle.

[View ETL Fender Flare Extensions for Standard Low Fenders]

Rubicon High-Clearance Fender Flares

Rubicon-style high-clearance fender flares sit higher above the tire to provide additional space around the wheel opening.

Their shape and mounting arrangement differ from standard low fenders. An extension made for high-clearance flares generally will not fit standard or flat-style flares correctly.

The ETL Industries high-clearance extension kit is designed for specified Wrangler JL and JLU Rubicon applications. Review the complete product fitment and compare the existing flare shape before ordering.

[View ETL Fender Flare Extensions for Rubicon High-Clearance Fenders]

How to Identify Your Fender Flare Style

1. Confirm the vehicle platform

Identify whether the vehicle is a:

• Jeep Wrangler JL

• Jeep Wrangler JLU Unlimited

• Jeep Gladiator JT

If you are unsure, read our [Jeep Wrangler JK vs. JL vs. Gladiator JT Identification Guide].

2. Check the trim

Determine whether the vehicle is a Sport, Sahara, Rubicon or another trim. Do not use the trim name as the only fitment check because fenders might have been replaced or modified by a previous owner.

3. Compare the wheel-opening height

A Rubicon high-clearance flare generally has a higher wheel-opening profile than a standard low flare.

4. Compare the product photos

Check:

• Front and rear flare shape

• Lower edge profile

• Mounting-hole positions

• Marker-light area

• Overall extension width

• Included hardware

5. Send photos when uncertain

Take clear photos of:

• The complete front fender

• The complete rear fender

• The lower mounting edge

• Existing clips, rivets or fasteners

• Vehicle year and trim information

ETL Industries can help compare these details with the product before ordering.

Standard Low vs. High-Clearance Fenders

Feature	Standard/Low Fender	Rubicon High-Clearance Fender
Wheel-opening position	Lower profile	Higher profile
Common applications	Select Sport/Sahara and standard configurations	Select Rubicon configurations
Extension shape	Designed around the low flare	Designed around the high-clearance flare
Interchangeable	No	No
Verification required	Vehicle, year and flare shape	Vehicle, year, trim and flare shape

The terms “standard,” “low,” “high clearance” and “Rubicon style” can be used differently by sellers. The physical shape and mounting points are more reliable than the product name alone.

Choosing the Correct Width

Measure how far the tire tread extends beyond the existing flare when viewed from above.

Consider:

• Wheel width

• Tire width

• Wheel offset

• Spacers

• Suspension modifications

• Desired finished appearance

Do not assume that a wider extension automatically fits better. Excessive width can affect appearance and may not align with the factory body.

Check the dimensional information on the product page before ordering. If the required dimension is not listed, contact ETL Industries for measurements.

Installation Considerations

Depending on the product and vehicle, installation may use factory mounting points, rivets, clips or screws.

Before installation:

1. Read the complete instructions.

2. Confirm that all front and rear pieces are present.

3. Compare each extension with the corresponding fender.

4. Clean the mounting surface.

5. Test-fit every piece before installing permanent fasteners.

6. Keep the extension aligned while tightening the hardware.

7. Check tire clearance through the steering and suspension range.

Do not permanently drill or modify the vehicle until fitment has been confirmed.

Professional installation is recommended if you are unfamiliar with automotive body fasteners or rivet tools.

Common Ordering Mistakes

Ordering by model year only

Two vehicles from the same model year can have different fenders because of trim, options or previous modifications.

Confusing low and high-clearance flares

The two styles use different profiles. Their extensions should not be treated as interchangeable.

Assuming every JL product fits the Gladiator JT

The Wrangler JL and Gladiator JT share some front-end characteristics, but rear fender and body components can differ.

Ignoring two-door and four-door fitment

Always check whether the product explicitly lists the two-door JL, four-door JLU or Gladiator JT.

Installing before test-fitting

Test-fit the complete front and rear set before drilling or installing permanent fasteners.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do fender flare extensions replace the factory fenders?

No. Extensions attach to compatible existing fender flares. They are not complete replacement fenders unless the product page specifically says otherwise.

Will Rubicon extensions fit Sahara fenders?

Generally, no. Rubicon high-clearance and standard low/Sahara-style flares have different shapes. Select the extension made for the existing flare style.

Will Wrangler JL extensions fit a Gladiator JT?

Only when the product page explicitly lists Gladiator JT compatibility. Do not assume that all front and rear pieces are interchangeable.

Do I need to drill holes?

Installation requirements depend on the specific kit. Review the product description and instructions before installation. Even a no-drill kit might require supplied clips, rivets or replacement fasteners.

Are the extensions sold as a complete set?

ETL Industries offers specified kits containing front and rear pieces. Confirm the package contents on the individual product page.

How can ETL Industries help confirm fitment?

Send the vehicle year, model, trim and clear photos of the front and rear fender flares. Include information about any replacement fenders, wider wheels, spacers or other modifications.

Shop Fender Flare Extensions

Compare the existing fender style before selecting a product:

• [Shop Extensions for Standard Low Fender Flares]

• [Fender Flares Extensions for 2018-2024 Jeep Wrangler JL JLU Rubicon High Clearance | ETL INDUSTRIES]

• [Shop Jeep Wrangler JL Exterior Accessories]

Always verify the vehicle, model year, trim, fender shape and mounting points before ordering.

Jeep, Wrangler, Gladiator, Sahara and Rubicon are trademarks of their respective owner. ETL Industries is an independent aftermarket parts supplier and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the vehicle manufacturer.