Fender Flare / Wheel Arch Molding – 2022 Ram 1500 DT Laramie – Possible Rust/Corrosion Concern

[Ramanski]

Hi everyone,


I’m looking for some input regarding the wheel arch trim (fender flares / wheel opening molding) on my 2022 Ram 1500 DT Laramie.

As most of you know, these trucks come with the plastic arch molding around all four wheel wells. While cleaning my truck recently, I noticed that dirt and sand tend to accumulate in small gaps where the molding meets the body. I’ve attached photos and circled a few areas of concern.



Out of curiosity, I used a higher PSI setting on my pressure washer and flushed those areas — quite a bit of sand and debris came out. That got me thinking:

• Is this normal with these moldings?
• Can trapped dirt/sand in these areas lead to premature rust or corrosion underneath?
• Has anyone removed their arch molding and checked what it looks like behind it?
• Is there any recommended maintenance to prevent buildup (regular flushing, removal, sealing, etc.)?

My main concern is long-term. If this debris sits trapped behind the molding and retains moisture, I’m worried it could eventually cause corrosion on the body — especially after the warranty period is over.


Would you recommend having the dealer inspect this, or is this considered normal and not a real issue?

Appreciate any feedback, experiences, or advice you can share.


Thanks in advance.

 

[Adamcr68]

Hi everyone,


I’m looking for some input regarding the wheel arch trim (fender flares / wheel opening molding) on my 2022 Ram 1500 DT Laramie.

As most of you know, these trucks come with the plastic arch molding around all four wheel wells. While cleaning my truck recently, I noticed that dirt and sand tend to accumulate in small gaps where the molding meets the body. I’ve attached photos and circled a few areas of concern.



Out of curiosity, I used a higher PSI setting on my pressure washer and flushed those areas — quite a bit of sand and debris came out. That got me thinking:

• Is this normal with these moldings?
• Can trapped dirt/sand in these areas lead to premature rust or corrosion underneath?
• Has anyone removed their arch molding and checked what it looks like behind it?
• Is there any recommended maintenance to prevent buildup (regular flushing, removal, sealing, etc.)?

My main concern is long-term. If this debris sits trapped behind the molding and retains moisture, I’m worried it could eventually cause corrosion on the body — especially after the warranty period is over.


Would you recommend having the dealer inspect this, or is this considered normal and not a real issue?

Appreciate any feedback, experiences, or advice you can share.


Thanks in advance.


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Mine are after market and have a rubber strip where they meet the body, they still rub/scratch the clear coat.
I didn’t realize how bad until I had removed them to paint the “rivets”, was warned by members when I first posted about installing them.
I thought the factory flares fit better, would have accounted for the gap in your pictures.
I will loosen the mounting hardware occasionally, press the flare against the fender and retighten, but yours looks flush so probably won’t help with those gaps.
Maybe some sort of clear silicon that won’t damage the paint, carefully applied, would keep dirt out but guessing that isn’t an ideal solution.
I did put some clear tape under mine last time I had them off to try to protect the fender, not sure if any of this will help you, I’ll be watching for more reply’s that will be helpful for your situation.

 

[diymirage]

I would put a lil dab of clear silicone right there where that body line 'dips' under that lol flare

 

[Ramanski]

Makes sense. I was going to take the fenders off and clean them out and re-install them. But then I thought. Better not just in case if any of the clips, etc break. Any thoughts on this ? I love taking things apart but with not much thought then I pay the price ... lol

 

[Bigskyroadglide]

Wait till you see how those mud flaps, wear into the plastic flare. Usually a definite line of wear .

On my 16, I took the flares off during shock replacement and washed cleaned and polished, then new double sides tape and back on.

Lots of dirt and road grit, no rust, but I'm not in the rust belt.

Fluid film is your friend