Fender Gap

I know it may not be very noticeable, but after installing my headlights, I observed a gap on my fenders. I’ve noticed that other Tacomas don’t seem to have this gap. Any idea what might be causing the issue? My next service is approaching soon; do you think the technicians would be able to adjust that for me? It’s the OCD lol

 

Oh, man. I had one side of the fender flare that would not snap into place. It made the flare not flush with the panel.

You may have to disassemble and try and pop the flare back into place. Here's a memorable pic showing the surgery you/we performed.



Either that or buy some fendys with a little more flare...I had a shop install them for me...I didn't have the patience.

 

definitely need to remove and reinstall, while paying attention to the bolt location/placement along the lower radiator support. your wheel flare is also pulled away from the metal quarter panel, indicating the plastic cover is also not fully snapped in.

 

If you put aftermarket lamps in, I would bet, it is the chinese/taiwan parts you put in, giving your body lines, the biggest fits. (no pun intended). Ski

 

So pretty much just try to make sure the bracket is placed correctly? Would over tightening the bolt affect it? Honestly installing those headlights was a pain in the ass, the black fender flare plastic wasn’t too hard to remove but the actual fender was pretty hard do you know why that would be?

 

Gap looks normal to me.

 

I’m a collision repair tech for 14 years. Completely normal and within spec. Sure some tacomas might be slightly tighter but there are tolerances within the build spec. I see no problem here

 

This is the cheapest option...

https://ocdtrials.com/?gclid=Cj0KCQ...qJSp2_fbadDxEziio5en40FHJ_1GRYywaAqmzEALw_wcB


Or! Perhaps, it's not OCD and you're just bothered by small life annoyances.

Regardless, fixing everything that slightly bothers you on a mass produced vehicle is not going to be cheap...

 

it's not just the bolts. it's also how the plastic bumper fits into the clip assembly at the metal quarter panel. probably need to clip it fully in, and then push the plastic bumper up all the way while tightening the bolts.

i know i had issues fully clipping my bumper in after removal for my winch install. definitely helps to do in warm weather as well, where the plastic is more malleable.

 

Are to referring to the fender flare? The flare is clipped on + adhesive tape. There are clips that may not fully engaged. Try to press on the flare firmly until you hear the click.

 

I would just look away. These things weren't made by the Germans gaps aren't perfect all over the trucks.

 

Yeah you’re right. I’ll see if they can do an adjustment next time I go in for service and if they don’t I’ll just let it be.