Jeep Gladiator JT Rear Fender Flares Upgrade
By Body Armor 4x4 | Published: 2026-10-21
Category: Product Reviews
Upgrade your Gladiator JT with durable aftermarket rear fender flares. This guide covers fitment, coverage, and what to look for in a quality set.
Quick answer
For a durable, high-clearance upgrade that protects your Gladiator JT's bed sides, the Body Armor 4x4 rear fender flares offer a flat profile with 5-3/4" of coverage and a tough powder coat finish.
Why upgrade the factory flares?
The stock JT rear fender flares are adequate for light duty, but they lack the coverage and impact resistance needed for off-road or work use. Aftermarket options like the Body Armor 4x4 set add extra protection against trail debris and tire spray, and they give the truck a more aggressive look.
A key upgrade is material thickness. Factory flares are often thin plastic that can crack or warp. A 3/16" steel plate set will hold up to rocks, branches, and repeated contact without failing.
What to look for in a set
Coverage depth matters. The Body Armor 4x4 flares provide 5-3/4" of coverage, which is enough to protect the bed sides from mud and road grime without looking oversized. A high-clearance flat design also helps avoid catching on obstacles when off-camber.
Finish durability is another factor. A two-stage powder coat with a textured black finish resists chips and UV fading better than a single-stage coat. The Body Armor set includes a 3-year finish warranty and a limited lifetime warranty on the steel itself.
Installation notes
These flares are designed to bolt onto the factory mounting points, so no drilling or cutting is required. Plan for about an hour of work if you have basic hand tools. A helper makes alignment easier.
Because they are steel, they add weight over plastic flares, but the added durability is worth it for most owners. Expect a small increase in wind noise at highway speeds due to the flat profile.
Your buying decision checklist
- Coverage check: Measure your current flare coverage. If you want more than 5 inches of protection, the Body Armor 4x4 set delivers that without a bulky look.
- Material choice: Steel flares (3/16") offer the best impact resistance but add weight. Plastic flares are lighter but crack more easily. Choose based on your typical terrain. If you off-road or carry loads, steel is the safer bet.
- Finish durability: A two-stage powder coat with a textured finish holds up better to scratches and UV than a single-stage coat. Verify the warranty before buying. A 3-year finish warranty indicates confidence in the coating.
- Installation ease: Look for a bolt-on design that uses factory mounting points. If you don't want to drill or cut, avoid kits that require modification.
- Profile preference: Flat high-clearance flares reduce snagging on obstacles but may increase wind noise. Rounded flares are quieter but can catch on rocks. Consider your primary driving environment.
Product details
- 2019-2026 JEEP GLADIATOR JT REAR FENDER FLARES: 3/16" steel plate construction with a high-clearance flat design and 5-3/4" of coverage This thickness and coverage provide real protection against trail damage without adding unnecessary bulk or weight.
2019-2026 JEEP GLADIATOR JT REAR FENDER FLARES - 2019-2026 JEEP GLADIATOR JT REAR FENDER FLARES: Durable 2-stage light textured black powder coat finish with a 3-year finish / limited lifetime warranty The two-stage finish resists chipping and fading better than budget options, and the warranty gives peace of mind for long-term use.
Is this upgrade for you?
Best for
- Gladiator JT owners who frequently off-road or drive on gravel/dirt roads
- Owners wanting a tough, long-lasting steel flare with a warranty
Not ideal for
- Drivers who only use their JT on pavement and want the lightest possible flare
- Owners who prefer a rounded or contoured flare look over a flat profile
