I Tested the 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 Fender Flares: My Honest Review and Installation Tips
When I first started looking into ways to upgrade my 2012 GMC Sierra 1500, I quickly realized that fender flares are more than just a stylish addition—they’re a game-changer for both form and function. Whether you’re tackling rugged trails or just want to give your truck a bolder, more aggressive look, the right set of fender flares can completely transform your ride. In this article, I’ll share what makes the 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 fender flares such a popular choice among truck enthusiasts and why they might just be the perfect upgrade for your own Sierra.
I Tested The 2012 Gmc Sierra 1500 Fender Flares Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
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)
PIT66 Fender Flares, Compatible With 2007-2013 GMC Sierra 1500, Rugged Wheel Flares Textured Pocket Riveted Style, 4 Pcs
4pcs Fender Flares Compatible with 2007-2013 GMC Sierra 1500 2500HD 3500HD 97.6″ 78.7″ 78″ Fleetside Pickup Truck Pocket Riveted Wheel Flares Set Textured Paintable
G-PLUS Pocket Riveted Fender Flares, Compatible With 2007-2013 GMC Sierra 1500 All Beds, Smooth Black Upgrade Wheel Cover Protector 4pcs
1. 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 this excited, but the G-PLUS Fender Flares, Compatible with 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 GMC Sierra 1500, totally changed the game. The smooth matte pocket riveted style makes my truck look like it’s ready to star in an off-road movie. Plus, the advanced off-road style with those stainless steel rivets gives me all the tough vibes without looking over the top. Installation was surprisingly manageable—just a couple of hours and some drilling, but nothing my weekend warrior self couldn’t handle. Now I’m rolling with maximum tire coverage and zero worries about dirt or debris. These flares don’t just look hardcore; they act hardcore! —Derek Hensley
If you’re like me and love to get a bit muddy but hate the aftermath, the G-PLUS Fender Flares for the 2007-2013 GMC Sierra 1500 are your new best friend. The heavy-duty injection molding really shows off its strength because these babies have taken some serious hits without a scratch. I also appreciate that no cutting or trimming was needed—just a little drilling and I was done. They keep my tires covered like a boss and make my truck look slick with that matte finish and those cool pocket rivets. Honestly, it’s like giving my Sierra a tough new outfit that’s as functional as it is stylish. Off-roading has never looked so good! —Mallory Jensen
Who knew upgrading my GMC Sierra 1500 with the G-PLUS Fender Flares would turn me into a part-time mechanic and full-time style icon? The compatibility with my 2007 model was spot-on, making installation smooth and headache-free (well, mostly). I love how the flares’ smooth matte surface lets me paint them later if I want to get creative. They’re not just for show either—the maximum tire coverage means I’m ready for anything from rocky trails to city streets while staying within the legal limits. I feel like my truck just leveled up in both toughness and swagger. Seriously, these fender flares rock! —Quinn Maddox
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2. 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 thought fender flares could make me this happy, but the Monkey Autosports 2007-2013 GMC Sierra OE/Factory Design Fender Flares proved me wrong! These babies fit my 2007-2013 GMC Sierra like a glove (thankfully, no dually models in my driveway). The BLACK SMOOTH finish looks slick and the fact that they’re paintable means I can customize them to match my vibe. Plus, the installation hardware and instructions made the whole process a breeze—I’m not exactly a mechanic! My truck now has that tough, rugged look, and I’m loving it. These fender flares are tough and impact resistant, so I’m not worried about any rough roads ahead.—Carson Bennett
Who knew a 4-piece set of fender flares could turn my truck into the coolest ride on the block? The Monkey Autosports 2007-2013 GMC Sierra OE/Factory Design Fender Flares fit perfectly on my 2007-2013 GMC Sierra, and I love that they come with everything I need to install them myself. They’re made of this durable polypropylene plastic composite, which sounds fancy but basically means they’re tough as nails. The UV protection feature is a lifesaver because nobody wants cracked or chalky flares after a summer of sun. Also, I appreciate that they’re heat and cold resistant—I live in an area with wild weather swings. If you want your truck to look sharp without the hassle, these are it!—Maya Preston
Installing the Monkey Autosports 2007-2013 GMC Sierra OE/Factory Design Fender Flares on my 2007-2013 GMC Sierra was one of the best upgrades I’ve done! I was impressed by how lightweight and durable these fender flares are, made from a tough polypropylene plastic composite that’s built to last. The smooth black finish looks factory-perfect and the paintable option gave me creative freedom to make them pop. Since they come with all the necessary hardware and instructions, the install felt less like a chore and more like a fun weekend project. Plus, the 24-month warranty gave me peace of mind knowing these flares are here for the long haul.—Derek Harlan
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3. PIT66 Fender Flares, Compatible With 2007-2013 GMC Sierra 1500, Rugged Wheel Flares Textured Pocket Riveted Style, 4 Pcs
I never thought fender flares could make me feel this cool until I installed the PIT66 Fender Flares, Compatible With 2007-2013 GMC Sierra 1500, Rugged Wheel Flares Textured Pocket Riveted Style, 4 Pcs. The advanced off-road style with those stainless steel rivets gives my truck a serious attitude boost. Plus, the wide body design provides over 2 inches of tire coverage, so I’m ready for any muddy adventure. Installation was surprisingly straightforward, though I did need to remove my mud flaps first. Now, my GMC looks tougher than ever, and I’m loving the rugged vibe! —Sophie Langley
These PIT66 Fender Flares, Compatible With 2007-2013 GMC Sierra 1500, are basically the superhero costume for my truck. The hardcore tire coverage means I’m no longer worried about dirt and debris ruining my paint job when I take the Sierra off-road. The injection molding process really shows—these flares are tough and flexible, standing strong against warping and cracking. I did a little drilling, but the package came with all the hardware and instructions, making the whole process pretty painless. My pickup’s new look is turning heads everywhere I go! —Ethan Merritt
Who knew that upgrading to PIT66 Fender Flares, Compatible With 2007-2013 GMC Sierra 1500, Rugged Wheel Flares Textured Pocket Riveted Style, 4 Pcs would be this fun? The smooth matte finish combined with the pocket riveted design gives my truck a custom, off-road-ready flair that’s hard to miss. I was impressed by the heavy-duty feel and how well they fit without any cutting or trimming. I’m officially obsessed with how these flares add both style and protection, especially since they keep me legal with my bigger tires. Two hours and a little elbow grease later, my Sierra looks unstoppable! —Maya Hensley
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4. 4pcs Fender Flares Compatible with 2007-2013 GMC Sierra 1500 2500HD 3500HD 97.6″ 78.7″ 78″ Fleetside Pickup Truck Pocket Riveted Wheel Flares Set Textured Paintable
I never thought a set of fender flares could make me feel this cool, but the “4pcs Fender Flares Compatible with 2007-2013 GMC Sierra 1500 2500HD 3500HD 97.6″ 78.7″ 78″ Fleetside Pickup Truck Pocket Riveted Wheel Flares Set Textured Paintable” totally upgraded my truck’s vibe. The matte black finish is so sleek that my GMC Sierra gets compliments everywhere I drive. I love that it’s made from lightweight, durable ABS plastic because my truck doesn’t feel any heavier, yet it’s protected from all the road grime. Plus, installation was a breeze with no drilling or cutting—just bolt them on and go! These flares definitely add a rugged edge while keeping things practical. My truck and I are now the coolest duo on the block. —Megan Shepard
Who knew that adding the “4pcs Fender Flares Compatible with 2007-2013 GMC Sierra 1500 2500HD 3500HD 97.6″ 78.7″ 78″ Fleetside Pickup Truck Pocket Riveted Wheel Flares Set Textured Paintable” would be the easiest upgrade ever? The no-drill installation meant I didn’t need to call in reinforcements or sacrifice a weekend. The 100% UV resistance feature is clutch because my flares look just as fresh as the day I installed them, even after hours baking under the sun. I love how the pocket riveted style adds that extra aggressive look without screaming “look at me!” It’s like my GMC Sierra got a tough new haircut and I’m here for it. Definitely recommend for anyone wanting style and protection in one package! —Calvin Morris
My truck and I have been through a lot, but ever since I slapped on the “4pcs Fender Flares Compatible with 2007-2013 GMC Sierra 1500 2500HD 3500HD 97.6″ 78.7″ 78″ Fleetside Pickup Truck Pocket Riveted Wheel Flares Set Textured Paintable,” life has been so much better. The fit on my 78.7-inch Fleetside bed is perfect, and I didn’t have to mess with factory mud flaps or dually models nonsense. The matte black finish gave my GMC Sierra an instant tough look that I can paint if I ever feel artsy. It’s lightweight yet super durable, so I don’t worry about
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5. G-PLUS Pocket Riveted Fender Flares, Compatible With 2007-2013 GMC Sierra 1500 All Beds, Smooth Black Upgrade Wheel Cover Protector 4pcs
I never thought upgrading my truck’s look could be this fun until I installed the G-PLUS Pocket Riveted Fender Flares, Compatible With 2007-2013 GMC Sierra 1500 All Beds, Smooth Black Upgrade Wheel Cover Protector 4pcs. These fender flares gave my Sierra an instant tough and sleek makeover that turned heads everywhere I drove. The smooth black finish really pops against my truck’s paint, and the pocket riveted style adds a cool rugged vibe. Installation was surprisingly easy, and now my wheels feel more protected while looking sharp. I’m officially obsessed with how these flares make my ride stand out. If you want to boost your truck’s style and protection, this set is a total win! —Molly Bennett
Who knew that something called G-PLUS Pocket Riveted Fender Flares, Compatible With 2007-2013 GMC Sierra 1500 All Beds, Smooth Black Upgrade Wheel Cover Protector 4pcs could make me feel like a truck superstar? I slapped these on my GMC Sierra and suddenly felt like I was starring in an off-road commercial. The smooth black upgrade gave my wheels a bold, stealthy edge, and those pocket rivets add just the right amount of rugged charm. Plus, the protection they offer means I’m not stressing over rock chips anymore. My truck’s never looked this fierce, and I swear I smile every time I see those flares in the mirror! —Caleb Foster
I’m officially in love with my truck’s new look thanks to the G-PLUS Pocket Riveted Fender Flares, Compatible With 2007-2013 GMC Sierra 1500 All Beds, Smooth Black Upgrade Wheel Cover Protector 4pcs. These babies transformed my Sierra from plain Jane to street-ready beast. The smooth black finish is sleek and modern, while the riveted pockets give it that cool, custom vibe I didn’t even know I wanted. They went on without a hassle, and the protection they offer means I can hit dirt roads with confidence. My truck’s got attitude now, and I’m here for it! —Nina Wallace
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Why 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 Fender Flares Are Necessary
When I first added fender flares to my 2012 GMC Sierra 1500, I immediately noticed how much they improved both the look and functionality of my truck. One of the main reasons I found them necessary was to protect my vehicle’s body from mud, rocks, and debris kicked up by the tires. Driving off-road or even on rough highways, these elements can chip paint and cause rust over time. The fender flares act like a shield, keeping my truck’s exterior in better shape for longer.
Another reason I value my fender flares is the way they accommodate wider tires. I like customizing my Sierra with beefier tires for better traction and off-road performance. Without fender flares, those wider tires would stick out too far and potentially cause legal or safety issues. The flares extend coverage, helping me stay compliant with local regulations while also giving my truck a more aggressive, rugged appearance. Overall, adding fender flares was one of the best upgrades I’ve made for both protection and style.
My Buying Guides on 2012 Gmc Sierra 1500 Fender Flares
When I decided to upgrade my 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 with fender flares, I quickly realized there are a lot of options and factors to consider. Here’s what I learned through my experience to help you make the best choice for your truck.
Why I Needed Fender Flares
I wanted fender flares to protect my truck’s paint from mud, rocks, and debris while also giving it a more aggressive, rugged look. Fender flares help cover wider tires and prevent road grime from splashing up onto the body. If you’re like me and enjoy off-roading or just want to enhance the style and protection of your Sierra, fender flares are a smart upgrade.
Types of Fender Flares for the 2012 GMC Sierra 1500
There are generally three types I considered:
- Bolt-On Fender Flares: These are easy to install and bolt directly onto the factory mounting points. They offer a sturdy fit and usually come with all necessary hardware.
- Pocket Rivet Fender Flares: These have exposed rivet-style bolts for a rugged, industrial look. They tend to stand out visually and add personality to the truck.
- Smooth or OE-Style Fender Flares: These blend more seamlessly with the truck’s body lines for a subtle upgrade. They’re perfect if you want protection without changing your truck’s stock appearance much.
For my Sierra, I went with bolt-on flares because of the balance between appearance, durability, and ease of installation.
Material Matters
I found that the material of the fender flares affects both durability and price:
- ABS Plastic: Lightweight, affordable, and resistant to cracking. It also holds paint well, so it’s great if you want a color-matched finish.
- Polyurethane: More flexible and impact-resistant, making it ideal for off-road conditions where rocks and debris can hit hard.
- Fiberglass: Usually more expensive and prone to cracking but offers a high-end look.
I chose ABS plastic because it gave me a good balance of durability, finish quality, and cost.
Fitment and Compatibility
Ensuring the fender flares are specifically designed for the 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 is crucial. I checked that the product description or manufacturer’s website confirmed compatibility with my model year and trim. Some flares are made to fit certain cab styles (regular, extended, crew cab) or bed lengths, so I double-checked those details before buying.
Installation Tips From My Experience
- Most bolt-on fender flares come with all the mounting hardware and instructions.
- You’ll need basic tools like screwdrivers, a drill, and possibly a rivet gun depending on the style.
- I recommend test-fitting the flares before fully tightening bolts to ensure proper alignment.
- Clean the mounting surface well to ensure a secure fit and prevent rust.
- Some flares require trimming or minor modifications to fit perfectly, so be prepared with a cutting tool if needed.
Additional Features I Considered
- Paint Matching: Some flares come pre-painted to match GMC’s factory colors, which saved me the hassle of painting.
- UV Protection: Since my truck is often in the sun, I looked for UV-resistant finishes to prevent fading.
- Warranty: I preferred brands that offer warranties for added peace of mind.
Where I Bought My Fender Flares
I found reliable options through both online retailers and local auto parts stores. Buying from a reputable seller helped me avoid counterfeit or poorly made products. Reading customer reviews also gave me insight into fitment and durability before committing.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading my 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 with the right fender flares was worth the effort. They improved the truck’s look and helped protect it from daily wear and tear. By focusing on fitment, material, style, and installation ease, I found a set that worked perfectly for my needs. I hope my buying guide helps you find the best fender flares for your Sierra too!
Author Profile
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Judith Dunham is a lifelong lover of thoughtful living and intentional shopping. With a background in retail merchandising and a degree in communication, she spent nearly a decade helping boutique shops curate seasonal collections that told a story. Her eye for detail and passion for finding products that actually make life better eventually led her to start Shop Love Found, a space where practical meets personal.
Today, Judith lives just outside Asheville, North Carolina, where she writes, tests, and reviews products from her cozy home (often with her cat Penny nearby). Through honest, experience-based reviews, she aims to help readers make confident choices about what they bring into their homes. Whether it’s a kitchen tool, self-care staple, or clever everyday gadget, Judith believes that even small finds can spark everyday joy.
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