Aftermarket fenders, Anyone messed with them? Options

[kevin311]

Just curious if any member have had any experiences with aftermarket fenders? I need a pair in the future before beginning body work and paint. I could get a pair of aftrmarkets cheaper than one OEM fender runs unless I can finally find a 6gc in the local yards with fenders worth a damn. Fitment is one concern and obviously fiberglass isn't the most durable material. Just wanted to get some opinions.

[mgnt232]

I have never messed with fenders, but I've gone through several bodykits and fitment is never perfect. OEM will fit perfect obviously, but I would plan on doing a little fitment work if you go aftermarket.
Fiberglass gets a bad rep, but really unless you crash into something it will be fine. But if you crash into something, your metal fender is messed up too.

off topic PM'ed you since your from NC

This post has been edited by mgnt232: Oct 29, 2014 - 7:15 AM

[kevin311]

I've messed with fiberglass body kits some as well, my brother has had a car or two with a kit installed. And I will say fiberglass holds up fairly well unless of course, like you said, you smash something. I'm considering it seeing as I want to shave the side marker lights too. Just didn't know if anyone in the forums had installed or seen any first hand to know just how much fab is needed and if they looked "right". There's only one type I've seen that I like.

[DST94]

Unless you love cracks in your fenders don't do it. I spent the money and got super cool aftermarket fenders. In less than a year I had at least 10 cracks on each fender just above the wheel well. Stick with metal.

[playr158]

I had Z3 and some other style back in the day. fitment was eh, as always it takes a lot of work.
never had cracking issues though

[kevin311]

Thanks for the input fellas. If I don't find any factory fenders locally by Xmas I may just try my luck with them. I'm wanting to at least have her in a prime coat by spring.

[VavAlephVav]

My friend used to run a small body shop. He did lots of work for used car lots where they would buy something that had been smashed into a ball, and then bring it to him to rebuild and make it look great. Then they'd sell it for blue book value as if it were a great car.
One of the big aftermarket body parts companies is called Certi-Fit. ...and we always refer to them as "Sorta-Fit" . it may not look terrible, but their not quite the same.