Flares vs. No Flares: Why Your RAM 1500 Mud Flaps Don't Fit
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You order a set of WeatherTech Mud Flaps for your 2009–2018 RAM 1500.
You go to install them, and the plastic contour doesn't line up. There is a 1-inch gap.
Frustrated, you check the box. "Fits 2009-2018 RAM 1500."
So what went wrong?
You likely fell victim to the "Flare vs. No Flare" trap.
RAM trucks come with two fender styles:
- With OEM Flares: A plastic trim piece borders the wheel well (Laramie, Longhorn, Rebel).
- Without Flares: The metal fender is bare (Express, Tradesman).
Molded mud flaps are precision-engineered to hug the curve of the fender. If you buy the "No Flare" version and try to put it on a "Flare" truck, it simply won't fit.
In this guide, we show you how to identify your fender type and choose the perfect protection—whether you need the sleek Husky Liners or the heavy-duty Gatorback Offset flaps for your lifted build.
Compare Mud Flap Styles
Factory Look or Off-Road Protection?
|
Flap Style |
Material |
Install Difficulty |
Best For |
|
Husky Custom Molded |
Hard Thermoplastic. Contoured fit. |
Easy. (No Drill). |
Stock Trucks. Factory look. |
|
WeatherTech No-Drill |
Hard Thermoplastic. Laser measured. |
Easy. (No Drill). |
Daily Drivers. Simple protection. |
|
Gatorback (Offset) |
Heavy Rubber + Metal Plate. |
Medium. (Bolt-on). |
Towing/Lifts. Premium protection. |
|
Rek Gen Mesh |
Flexible Polymer. Aggressive style. |
Easy/Medium. |
Off-Road. Won't crack on rocks. |
Frequently Asked Questions (Mud Flaps)
Do I have to drill holes in my metal fenders?
Not with the right brand.
- Husky & WeatherTech: These are designed as "No-Drill." They use the existing factory screws in the fender liner and often include a clamping mechanism or 3M tape for extra security.
- Universal/Offset Flaps: May require drilling into the plastic liner or using self-tapping screws, but rarely require drilling into the metal body panel itself.
My truck has wheel spacers. Which flaps should I buy?
Do not buy molded flaps (Husky/WeatherTech). Because your tires swing wider when turning, they will rip a molded flap right off the truck.
You need Flat or Kickback mud flaps (like Rek Gen or Gatorback). These sit flat and often have an offset bracket to move the flap back, giving your tires room to clear.
What if I have aftermarket fender flares?
If you have Bushwacker or other aftermarket flares, standard molded flaps will not fit. You generally have two options:
- Buy flat, universal "rubber" flaps and screw them into the flare.
- Buy flaps specifically made by the flare manufacturer (e.g., Bushwacker makes flaps for their own flares).
Stop the chips.
Protect your rockers from gravel and rust. Shop our verified collection of 2009–2018 RAM 1500 Mud Flaps.