Tire rubbing on fender liners is a common issue faced by vehicle owners. It causes discomfort and can lead to serious damage to the vehicle over time.
This problem can occur for several reasons and affect different parts of the vehicle, including the tires, wheels, suspension, and fender liners.
In this article, we’ll explore the most common causes of tire rubbing on fender liners and the steps you can take in fixing it.
Table of contents
What is Tire Rubbing?
Tire rubbing is the contact between a tire and another vehicle component, such as the fender, underbody, or suspension. This can occur when the tire does not have enough clearance within the wheel well or when the alignment of the wheels is incorrect.
Tire rubbing can cause damage to the tire, wheel, and other components and affect the handling and stability of the vehicle. Sometimes, it may result in a loud, persistent rubbing or grinding noise while driving.
What Does It Mean When Your Tire Rubs on Inner Fender?
Tire rubbing on the inner fender means that the tire’s sidewall is coming into contact with the car’s inner fender, causing a rubbing or screeching noise.
This can occur due to various factors, such as incorrect tire size, suspension issues, or excessive load. The rubbing can cause damage to both the tire and the vehicle and should be addressed as soon as possible to ensure safe driving conditions.
Reasons for Tire Rubbing on Inner Fender
1. Incorrect Tire Size
If your vehicle came with a specific tire size and you’ve upgraded to larger tires, this could cause issues. Larger tires may have a wider sidewall and come into contact with the inner fender during turns or over bumps in the road.
2. Suspension Problems
The suspension system helps keep your tires properly positioned and away from the fender. An issue with the suspension, such as a worn or damaged component, can cause the tire to sit too close to the fender and result in rubbing. Regular maintenance and inspections can prevent suspension problems.
3. Excessive Load
Whether it’s a full car of passengers or a heavy load of cargo, an excessive load can cause the suspension to sag. This can bring the tire closer to the inner fender, leading to rubbing. Make sure to stay within the recommended weight capacity for your vehicle.
4. Improper Alignment
If your vehicle’s wheels aren’t properly aligned, this can cause the tire to come into contact with the inner fender. Regular wheel alignments help keep your vehicle driving straight and prevent rubbing issues.
5. Modifications
Modifying your vehicle, such as lifting or lowering it, can also impact the position of the tire and the inner fender. If the modification isn’t done properly, it can result in tire rubbing.
If you’re planning on modifying your vehicle, it’s best to consult a professional to ensure everything is done correctly.
How Do I Stop My Tires From Rubbing My Fender?
1. Switching to the Recommended Tire Size
If the cause of the tire rubbing is an incorrect tire size, the best solution is to switch to the recommended tire size for your vehicle.
This information can be found in your vehicle’s owner’s manual or by consulting a professional mechanic.
Using the correct tire size, you can ensure that the tire has enough clearance within the wheel well and will not come into contact with the fender liner.
2. Inspecting and Repairing the Suspension
Suspension problems can cause tire rubbing by affecting the wheels’ alignment and the vehicle’s height. A professional mechanic can inspect your vehicle’s suspension system and identify any issues, such as worn or damaged components, that may be contributing to the problem. Once the issue is identified, the suspension can be repaired or replaced to resolve the tire rubbing issue.
3. Distributing the Load Evenly
If an excessive load is causing the tire to rub, it is important to distribute the load evenly. This can be done by adjusting the placement of items within the vehicle, such as shifting heavy items to the center of the vehicle, or by using proper load-carrying equipment, such as roof or trunk-mounted cargo boxes.
4. performing a Wheel Alignment
If the cause of the tire rubbing is improper alignment, a wheel alignment can help resolve the issue.
During a wheel alignment, the wheels are positioned correctly, and the alignment is adjusted so that the tire does not come into contact with the fender liner. This helps to ensure a smooth and safe driving experience.
5. Consult a Professional Mechanic
If you are unsure of the cause of the tire rubbing or need assistance resolving the issue, it is best to consult a professional mechanic.
They can diagnose the problem, identify any underlying issues, and recommend the best solution for your specific situation.
Working with a professional ensures that the issue is addressed correctly and that your vehicle is safe and reliable. Click HERE to learn more.
Will an Alignment Fix Tire Rubbing on Inner Fender?
Yes, a wheel alignment can help to fix tire rubbing, but it depends on the root cause of the issue. If the problem is caused by improper alignment, then a wheel alignment can help.
An alignment will ensure that the wheels are properly positioned and that the tire is not coming into contact with the inner fender.
However, suppose other factors, such as incorrect tire size, suspension problems, an excessive load, or modifications to the vehicle, cause the problem.
In that case, a wheel alignment may not be the solution. In these cases, it’s best to address the root cause of the problem first before attempting a wheel alignment.
FAQ
What is a Fender Liner?
A fender liner is a component of a vehicle’s suspension and body system. A plastic or metal panel lines the inside of the wheel well between the wheel and the vehicle’s body.
The fender liner helps to protect the wheel well and other components from dirt, debris, and other elements and also helps to reduce road noise and vibration.
Read: Sway Warning Toyota
Conclusion
Tire rubbing is a common issue for various reasons, including incorrect tire size, worn suspension components, uneven load distribution, incorrect wheel alignment, and excessive modifications.
To prevent tire rubbing and ensure a safe and reliable driving experience, it is important to follow the recommended tire size, inspect the suspension system, distribute the load evenly, regularly align the wheels, and avoid excessive modifications.
Also, if you are facing tire rubbing issues, you can consult a professional mechanic for an accurate diagnosis and effective solution. Most importantly, keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be on your way to a smooth, worry-free ride!
Ugo is a passionate car enthusiast with a Bachelor of Electrical and Electronics Engineering degree and hands-on experience in troubleshooting and fixing automobiles.
I combine my electrical and mechanical engineering knowledge with practical skills to address car-related issues.
My love for cars and dedication to educating others led to the creation of Fixandtroubleshoot.com!
