When it comes to car parts, it’s easy to get confused between the names of similar components. One of the most common confusions is the difference between the quarter panel and the fender. Some people use these terms interchangeably, but they actually refer to different parts of the car. In this blog post, we will break down the difference between a quarter panel and a fender and what they mean for your car.
What Is the Quarter Panel of a Car?
Simply put, the quarter panel is the body panel of the car located between the rear door and the trunk of the vehicle. Every car has two quarter panels, one on the driver’s side and another on the passenger’s side.
Due to their location, quarter panels are some of the body parts of your vehicles more exposed to scratches and deterioration caused by wear and tear.
What Is the Fender of a Car?
On the other hand, Fenders are the panels that cover the wheel wells and are located at the front of the car.
Its main purpose of the fenders is to protect the vehicle from dirt, mud, and other debris that is kicked up by the wheels. Additionally, the fenders can also enhance the car’s aerodynamics and design.
Just like quarter panels, fenders are exposed to damage, especially due to collisions. After all, the term “fender bender” is common for a reason!
Quarter Panel vs Fender
Quarter panels and fenders are similar in that they’re both panels adjacent to the car’s doors. In fact, some people refer to fenders as quarter panels.
However, one of the most obvious differences between a quarter panel and a fender is their location on the car. The fender is located at the front of the car, while the quarter panel is located at the rear.
This means that, although both parts are vulnerable, the fender is more exposed to the elements and is more likely to sustain damage even in minor collisions.
Quarter panels and fenders differ in their materials too. Given their importance as structural components, quarter panels are typically made of sheet metal, while fenders incorporate a variety of materials (such as plastic, metal, and fiberglass), which allows them to withstand the harsh conditions that prevail in the lower front section of a car.
To learn more about the different parts of a vehicle, check out our previous posts, “Should You Wash Tires and Wheels First When Washing Your Car?” and “5 Tips to Properly Clean Your Windshield.”
Inland Empire Autobody & Paint: The Best in Southern California
At Inland Empire Autobody & Paint Inc., we are a family-owned business specializing in collision repair, windshield care, and custom paint jobs. We have locations in Riverside and Moreno Valley, California.
Call us (951-465-7350). Contact us through our website or using our social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for more information about our full range of services.