2017-2024 Nissan GT-R Fender: A Guide to Aluminum, Vents, and Trim Levels

Symptoms of a Damaged Fender

Since a fender is a non-mechanical body panel, 'failure' refers to physical damage rather than a functional breakdown. Damage is almost always the result of an impact, whether from a collision, road debris, or a parking lot incident. Key symptoms to look for include:

• Visible Dents, Dings, and Scratches: This is the most common type of damage. While minor scratches are cosmetic, deep dents can be difficult and expensive to repair correctly on the GT-R's aluminum panels.
• Cracks or Tears: Severe impacts can cause the aluminum to crack or tear. A cracked fender compromises the structural integrity of the panel and almost always requires replacement.
• Poor Panel Gaps: If the gap between the fender and the hood, door, or bumper is uneven, it can indicate that the fender itself is bent or that its mounting points have been damaged. This can be a sign of a previous, poorly repaired accident.
• Paint Bubbling or Flaking: On aluminum panels, bubbling paint is a serious red flag. It often points to galvanic corrosion underneath, which occurs when the aluminum was improperly prepped or came into contact with steel particles during a previous repair.

Known Issues and Vehicle-Specific Information

The most important considerations for the 2017-2024 GT-R fender are its aluminum construction and the significant differences between vehicle trims.

Aluminum Construction Challenges

Unlike steel, aluminum does not have 'memory' and will not easily return to its original shape after being bent. It also work-hardens, meaning a dented area becomes stronger and more resistant to being straightened. Repairing aluminum requires specialized tools, training, and techniques to avoid stretching the metal or causing contamination that leads to corrosion. Many body shops are not equipped to properly repair aluminum panels, making replacement the more common and often safer option.

Trim Level Compatibility: Standard vs. Nismo/T-Spec

This is the single most critical factor when buying a replacement fender. The fenders are NOT interchangeable across all trims.

• Premium / Pure / 50th Anniversary: These models use the standard, non-vented fender. Part listings specifically mention 'Without Nismo' or 'Without T-Spec' for these parts.
• Nismo / T-Spec: The Nismo model features wider front fenders to accommodate a wider front wheel and tire setup for enhanced performance. These fenders also typically feature a large air vent behind the wheel arch to relieve high-pressure air from the wheel well. The T-Spec edition often uses the wider Nismo-style fenders as well.

Attempting to install a Nismo fender on a Premium model (or vice-versa) will result in misaligned body lines, improper fitment with the bumper and side skirts, and potential tire rubbing issues.

Buying a Used 2017-2024 GT-R Fender: What to Check

A used OEM fender is often an excellent choice, as it guarantees the correct material and fitment, provided you inspect it carefully.

1. Confirm the Exact Trim Level

Before you even look at the part, confirm with the seller which GT-R trim it came from. Ask for a photo of the entire fender. The Nismo/T-Spec fender will have a prominent vent or opening behind the wheel arch, while the standard Premium/Pure fender will be a solid panel.

2. Inspect for Previous Repairs

Look at both the front and back of the panel. Check for signs of body filler (often called 'Bondo'). Run your hand along the surface to feel for any waviness or uneven texture. Check the back for sanding marks, overspray, or any signs that the metal has been pushed out. A small magnet can also help; it won't stick to the aluminum fender but may stick to body filler if it contains metal dust.

3. Check for Cracks and Corrosion

Carefully inspect all edges and mounting points for small cracks, especially if it's a previously damaged part. Look for any white, powdery residue, which is a sign of aluminum corrosion. Pay close attention to areas where any brackets or other metals were attached.

4. Verify All Mounting Tabs are Intact

The fender attaches to the car's chassis at several points. Ensure all the mounting holes and tabs are present and not cracked, bent, or broken. A fender with damaged mounting points will never align correctly.

Replacement Overview and Difficulty

• Difficulty Rating: 4 out of 5
• DIY Feasible: No
• Estimated Time: 3-5 hours for removal and installation, plus time for painting.

While the physical act of unbolting the old fender and bolting on a new one is straightforward, this job is not recommended for a DIY mechanic. The high difficulty rating is due to the specialized handling required for aluminum panels and the critical need for professional paint and blending. A body shop professional will need to remove the front bumper and wheel well liner to access all the fender bolts. After the new fender is installed, it must be perfectly aligned with the hood, door, and bumper to ensure even panel gaps. Finally, it must be professionally painted and the color blended into the adjacent door and hood panels to achieve an invisible repair, a process that requires significant skill and a proper paint booth.

Cost Comparison: New vs. Used GT-R Fenders

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

OEM Part Numbers

This list includes known OEM part numbers for the 2017-2024 Nissan GT-R. Note that part numbers can vary by side (left/right) and trim level. Always verify the part number with the seller or a dealership using your vehicle's VIN.

• 63101-6AVMA
• F3100-6MAMA
• F3101-6AVAA
• F3101-6AVMA
• F3101-6AWMA
• F3101-JF0MA
• FCA00-39BMA
• FCA00-62BMA
• FCA00-6AVAA
• FCA00-6AVMA
• FCA00-80BMA
• FCA00-JF0MA
• FCA01-39BMA
• FCA01-6AVAA
• FCA01-6AVMA