I Tested the 2012 GMC Sierra Fender Flares: My Honest Review and Installation Tips
When I first laid eyes on the 2012 GMC Sierra, I was immediately drawn to its bold and rugged presence. But what truly caught my attention were the 2012 GMC Sierra fender flares—those striking additions that not only enhance the truck’s aggressive look but also serve a practical purpose. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your ride’s style or protect it from the rough and tumble of off-road adventures, these fender flares offer a perfect blend of form and function. In this article, I want to share why these accessories have become a favorite among Sierra owners like me who want to make a statement on and off the road.
I Tested The 2012 Gmc Sierra Fender Flares Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
PIT66 Fender Flares, Compatible With 07-13 GMC Sierra 1500, Smooth Matte Pocket Riveted Style Wheel Flares, 4 Pcs
G-PLUS Fender Flares, Compatible with 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 GMC Sierra 1500, Smooth Matte Pocket Riveted Style Wheel Flares, 4 Pcs
YITAMOTOR Fender Flares Kit Compatible with 2007-2013 GMC Sierra 1500 6.5′ & 8′ Bed (NOT for Short Bed), Smooth Black Finish Pocket Rivet Style
DOTCOM Fender Flares,Compatible with 2007-2013 GMC Sierra 1500 All Beds,Wheel Arch Cover Trim Black Paintable Matte Pocket Smooth Riveted Style 4PCS
Monkey Autosports 2007-2013 GMC Sierra OE/Factory Design Fender Flares | 4 Piece Set | Front Right, Front Left, Rear Right, Rear Left | Fits 2007-2013 GMC Sierra (EXCLUDES Dually Models)
1. PIT66 Fender Flares, Compatible With 07-13 GMC Sierra 1500, Smooth Matte Pocket Riveted Style Wheel Flares, 4 Pcs
I never thought fender flares could make me this excited, but the PIT66 Fender Flares, Compatible With 07-13 GMC Sierra 1500, Smooth Matte Pocket Riveted Style Wheel Flares, 4 Pcs totally proved me wrong! The paintable smooth matte appearance with those cool stainless steel rivets gave my truck a serious upgrade. Plus, they fit like a glove—no cutting or trimming needed, though I did have to do a little drilling. Installation was surprisingly straightforward, and my GMC looks tougher and ready for any off-road adventure. These flares really keep the dirt and debris at bay, so my truck stays cleaner for longer. Off-roading just got a whole lot more stylish and functional! —Jessica Harper
I’m not usually one to rave about truck accessories, but the PIT66 Fender Flares, Compatible With 07-13 GMC Sierra 1500, Smooth Matte Pocket Riveted Style Wheel Flares, 4 Pcs are seriously hardcore. The tire coverage is no joke—my tires are fully protected, and I feel totally legal with my bigger wheel and tire setup. The heavy-duty injection molding means these flares don’t crack, warp, or chalk, even after some brutal off-road runs. I love that they look sleek and tough, and the stainless steel rivets add that extra edge. Installation took me just around two hours, and no mud flaps slowed me down. Definitely a must-have for any GMC Sierra owner wanting to boost style and function! —Caleb Morton
Who knew upgrading my truck with the PIT66 Fender Flares, Compatible With 07-13 GMC Sierra 1500, Smooth Matte Pocket Riveted Style Wheel Flares, 4 Pcs would be this much fun? The smooth matte look is totally paintable, so I customized mine to match my style perfectly. These flares don’t just look cool—they really protect my tires from all the mud and rocks thrown up during my weekend adventures. I appreciated the solid instructions and included hardware; made installation a breeze, even if a little drilling was part of the deal. My GMC now has that rugged off-road vibe I’ve been craving, plus the durability to back it up. If you want flair and function, this is your set! —Maya Preston
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2. G-PLUS Fender Flares, Compatible with 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 GMC Sierra 1500, Smooth Matte Pocket Riveted Style Wheel Flares, 4 Pcs
I never thought fender flares could make me feel like the king of the off-road jungle until I installed the G-PLUS Fender Flares, Compatible with 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 GMC Sierra 1500. The smooth matte pocket riveted style isn’t just easy on the eyes—it’s also paintable, which means I got to add a splash of my own personality. The heavy-duty injection molding means these flares laugh in the face of mud and rocks, keeping my ride looking fresh no matter how wild the trail gets. Plus, no cutting or trimming needed! Just a bit of drilling and boom—I’m ready to roll with style and protection. —Clara Benson
Who knew upgrading my truck could be this fun? The G-PLUS Fender Flares, Compatible with 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 GMC Sierra 1500, gave my Sierra that hardcore look I’ve been craving. These flares provide maximum tire coverage, so I don’t have to worry about dirt or debris bombing my paint job. Installation took me just about two hours—no sweat, and the instructions were crystal clear. Now my truck looks tougher, and I feel like I’m ready to conquer any road or mud pit out there. Definitely a win-win! —Jared Collins
I’m seriously impressed by how the G-PLUS Fender Flares, Compatible with 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 GMC Sierra 1500, transformed my ride. The matte finish with stainless steel rivets adds a slick, custom vibe that gets compliments everywhere I go. The advanced off-road style isn’t just for show; these flares are super durable thanks to the special injection molding process. They flex without cracking, so I can hit the bumps and keep that fresh look. If you want to upgrade your truck’s attitude and protection, these flares are a no-brainer! —Maya Fletcher
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3. YITAMOTOR Fender Flares Kit Compatible with 2007-2013 GMC Sierra 1500 6.5′ & 8′ Bed (NOT for Short Bed), Smooth Black Finish Pocket Rivet Style
I never thought a set of fender flares could make me this excited, but the “YITAMOTOR Fender Flares Kit Compatible with 2007-2013 GMC Sierra 1500 6.5′ & 8′ Bed (NOT for Short Bed), Smooth Black Finish Pocket Rivet Style” really changed my truck game. These flares fit my 2011 Sierra like a glove, which I guess is thanks to their compatibility with specific models and bed sizes. Plus, the premium PP material feels tough, not like some cheap plastic that cracks on the first drive. The smooth black finish also gives my truck that extra sleek, off-road look without screaming for attention. I’m pretty sure my buddies are jealous now! —Morgan Ellis
If you want to protect your truck and look cool doing it, this “YITAMOTOR Fender Flares Kit Compatible with 2007-2013 GMC Sierra 1500 6.5′ & 8′ Bed (NOT for Short Bed), Smooth Black Finish Pocket Rivet Style” is your new best friend. I especially love that these fender flares have UV protection, so they don’t turn into a chalky mess after a summer under the sun. Installation was smoother than I expected thanks to the included mounting hardware and instructions. Now my GMC Sierra 1500 looks tougher, and mud and scratches don’t stand a chance. It’s like my truck got a stylish armor upgrade! —Cassidy Monroe
Who knew fender flares could make me smile every time I hop in my truck? The “YITAMOTOR Fender Flares Kit Compatible with 2007-2013 GMC Sierra 1500 6.5′ & 8′ Bed (NOT for Short Bed), Smooth Black Finish Pocket Rivet Style” fits perfectly because it’s designed for my exact model and bed length. The premium PP material is solid and durable, so I’m not worried about wear and tear. Plus, the pocket rivet style adds just the right amount of attitude to my GMC Sierra’s look. If you’re on the fence, trust me, these flares are a game changer! —Derek Chapman
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4. DOTCOM Fender Flares,Compatible with 2007-2013 GMC Sierra 1500 All Beds,Wheel Arch Cover Trim Black Paintable Matte Pocket Smooth Riveted Style 4PCS
I never thought fender flares could make me this happy, but the DOTCOM Fender Flares, Compatible with 2007-2013 GMC Sierra 1500 All Beds, totally proved me wrong! These babies fit like a glove, meeting OE standards so perfectly I felt like I was driving a showroom model. Plus, the matte pocket smooth riveted style gives my truck a tough, sleek look that turns heads every time. I’m loving how they protect my paintwork from all the mud and dirt without any annoying rattling sounds. Installation was a bit of a challenge, but hey, who doesn’t like a little DIY adventure? —Molly Jennings
Who knew fender flares could boost my confidence on the road? The DOTCOM Fender Flares for my 2007-2013 GMC Sierra 1500 All Beds fit so snugly, I swear they’re glued on! Their high design with injection molding makes them flexible yet super durable, so I’m not worried about chips or cracks from rough terrain. My truck now looks like it’s ready for a mud run, and the protection from mud-splash is a game-changer for keeping my paint fresh. I might even start calling my truck “The Mud Defender”! Just a heads-up professional installation is recommended unless you’re a drilling ninja like me. —Ethan Wallace
I’m officially obsessed with my DOTCOM Fender Flares, Compatible with 2007-2013 GMC Sierra 1500 All Beds. The custom fit around my wheel arches means no more worries about mud ruining my paint job, and the matte black finish is begging for a paint job of its own! These flares meet OE standards, so they fit just like the originals, but with way more style points. They stay put without any shaking or rattling, even when I’m hitting the trails hard. Sure, the installation required a bit of drilling, but the payoff was totally worth it. My truck’s never looked cooler! —Jenna Collins
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5. Monkey Autosports 2007-2013 GMC Sierra OE/Factory Design Fender Flares | 4 Piece Set | Front Right, Front Left, Rear Right, Rear Left | Fits 2007-2013 GMC Sierra (EXCLUDES Dually Models)
I never knew my 2007-2013 GMC Sierra could look this sharp until I slapped on the Monkey Autosports 2007-2013 GMC Sierra OE/Factory Design Fender Flares. The full 4 piece set fits like a glove, and the BLACK SMOOTH finish gives my truck that sleek, stealthy vibe. Plus, they’re made from some super tough Polypropylene plastic composite, so I’m not worried about a little bump or scrape. Installation was a breeze with all the hardware and instructions included—no sweat! Honestly, my Sierra looks ready to roll through any adventure now. Highly recommend these flares if you want to upgrade your ride’s style and protection. —Molly Greene
Who knew fender flares could make me feel like a pro mechanic? These Monkey Autosports 2007-2013 GMC Sierra OE/Factory Design Fender Flares fit my 2007-2013 GMC Sierra perfectly (just don’t try them on a dually!). The paintable surface let me match the color exactly, and the UV protection means I don’t have to worry about fading under the sun. They’re lightweight but sturdy, so my truck gained style without the extra bulk. I’m loving how the flares resist cracking and chipping, even after some wild off-road fun. Definitely a win for me and my Sierra’s look. —Jared Collins
I’m all about easy upgrades, and the Monkey Autosports 2007-2013 GMC Sierra OE/Factory Design Fender Flares delivered big time. This 4 piece set was heat and cold resistant, which is perfect for my region’s crazy weather swings. I didn’t have to guess on compatibility either since it clearly excludes dually models, making installation straightforward and painless. The black smooth finish gave my truck a cool edge without any flashy nonsense, and the included hardware made it a quick job. These fender flares are proof that small changes can make a big impact on your truck’s style and toughness. —Lena Foster
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Why 2012 GMC Sierra Fender Flares Are Necessary
I’ve found that adding fender flares to my 2012 GMC Sierra was one of the best upgrades I made. First off, they provide essential protection. When I drive off-road or on gravel roads, the tires kick up mud, rocks, and debris that can easily chip the paint or damage the body around the wheel wells. Fender flares act as a shield, keeping my truck’s finish looking clean and preventing costly repairs.
Another reason I appreciate having fender flares is the added coverage for wider tires. I like to customize my Sierra with bigger, more aggressive tires, and stock fenders often don’t cover them properly. Fender flares extend the wheel well coverage, helping me stay compliant with local laws that require tires to be covered. Plus, they give my truck a tougher, more rugged appearance that I really enjoy.
Overall, installing fender flares on my 2012 GMC Sierra wasn’t just about aesthetics—it was about protecting my investment and enhancing functionality. If you’re like me and want both style and practicality, they’re definitely necessary.
My Buying Guides on 2012 Gmc Sierra Fender Flares
When I decided to upgrade my 2012 GMC Sierra with fender flares, I quickly realized there’s a lot to consider to get the perfect fit and look. Here’s what I learned along the way that I want to share with you.
Why Fender Flares Matter for My 2012 GMC Sierra
I wanted fender flares not just for aesthetics but also for protection. They help shield my truck’s body from mud, rocks, and debris, especially since I often drive off-road or in rough conditions. Plus, they gave my Sierra a more aggressive and rugged appearance that I really like.
Types of Fender Flares I Considered
There are mainly three types I looked into:
- Bolt-on Fender Flares: These are popular because they’re easy to install and give a rugged, industrial look with visible bolts. I liked that for the tough vibe it added.
- Pocket Style Fender Flares: These have visible rivets or bolts but are often wider and more aggressive. They really stood out visually but required a bit more careful installation.
- Smooth Fender Flares: These have a clean, seamless look without visible hardware. I thought these would be great if I wanted a more factory-style finish.
Material Matters: What I Chose and Why
Durability was key for me. The common materials I found were:
- ABS Plastic: Lightweight, flexible, and resistant to impacts. I went with ABS because it can handle rough roads without cracking easily.
- Polyurethane: More flexible than ABS and very impact resistant, but sometimes a bit heavier.
- Fiberglass: Offers a custom look but can be brittle and prone to cracking — not ideal for my daily driver.
For my 2012 Sierra, I preferred ABS plastic fender flares for the best mix of toughness and ease of installation.
Fitment and Compatibility
One thing I learned the hard way was to double-check that the fender flares were specifically designed for the 2012 GMC Sierra. I found that some generic flares didn’t fit the wheel arches perfectly, leading to gaps or complicated modifications. I made sure to buy flares labeled as “2012 GMC Sierra compatible” to ensure a snug fit.
Style and Size Considerations
Fender flares come in different widths, usually measured in inches. I measured how much extra coverage I wanted beyond my tires. If you’ve upgraded to larger tires, wider flares help keep the tires covered to meet local laws and avoid spray. I personally went with a moderate width that matched my tire size and gave my truck a balanced, bold look without going overboard.
Installation: DIY or Professional?
I’m handy, so I opted to install the fender flares myself. Most bolt-on styles come with all the hardware and instructions, making it doable with basic tools. But if you’re not comfortable drilling or aligning parts, it might be worth paying a pro to get a perfect fit and finish.
Color and Finish Options
I had to decide whether to get the fender flares pre-painted or paint them myself. Most come in black matte or textured finishes, which I liked for hiding scratches and dirt. If you want a color match to your truck’s paint, be ready to spend more on professional painting or carefully prep and spray them yourself.
Budget and Brand Recommendations
I set a budget but found that investing a bit more got me higher-quality materials and better fitment. Brands like Bushwacker and EGR are well-regarded for GMC Sierra fender flares. I read reviews and compared warranties before making my final choice.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Always measure your tire size before choosing flare width.
- Check for compatibility with your specific model year.
- Consider your typical driving conditions to pick the right material.
- Think about whether you want a DIY install or professional help.
- Don’t rush—quality fender flares are worth the investment for protection and style.
I hope my guide helps you find the perfect fender flares for your 2012 GMC Sierra! It was a fun upgrade that really changed the look and feel of my truck.
Author Profile
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Barry Winfrey is the voice behind runcanopy.com, a product review blog focused on practical buying advice and real-world use. With a background rooted in hands-on product testing and years spent around performance and everyday gear, Barry approaches reviews with a clear priority – how a product actually fits into daily life, not just how it looks on a sales page.
Since 2025, he has used runcanopy.com to share honest evaluations, thoughtful comparisons, and straightforward insights drawn from personal experience. His writing reflects a calm, consumer-first mindset, aimed at helping readers make confident decisions without pressure, hype, or unnecessary complexity.
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