What comes in a widebody kit?
A widebody kit typically includes widened front and rear fenders (or fender flares), a front and rear bumper assembly, and side skirts to widen the car’s stance. Many sets also add aero elements like a splitter, diffuser, canards, and a rear wing, plus mounting hardware and installation guides. Contents vary by brand and material, and kits can be bolt-on or weld-on.
Core components of a widebody kit
The following list covers the components that appear most often in modern widebody kits and are designed to widen the car's footprint.
- Front fenders or front fender flares
- Rear fenders or rear fender flares
- Front bumper or bumper cover
- Rear bumper or bumper cover
- Side skirts or rocker panels
- Fender flares or widened wheel arches (some kits integrate these into the fenders rather than as separate pieces)
- Front splitter
- Rear diffuser
- Canards or small aero fins (optional)
- Rear wing or spoiler (optional)
- Mounting hardware, brackets, and installation instructions
- Optional reinforcement panels or braces for weld-on kits
Kit contents vary by model and manufacturer. Some sets emphasize a full replacement of panels, while others use add-on flares and extended bumpers to minimize permanent bodywork. Expect additional components or variations depending on the car and the desired look.
Materials and installation options
Choosing the right kit means considering materials, build quality, and how the kit is installed. The following lists summarize common material choices and installation approaches.
Material choices
Widebody kits are produced in several materials, each with different weight, rigidity, and cost profiles. Here are the most common options.
- Fiberglass — inexpensive and easy to shape, but can be heavier and less rigid; often used in budget or entry-level kits.
- Polyurethane (PU) — more durable and impact-resistant than fiberglass; tends to be more flexible, which can aid fitment and longevity.
- Carbon fiber — lightweight and strong with a premium finish; high cost and typically used on high-end, performance-oriented kits.
- ABS plastic — a lightweight option used in some budget kits; blends with other plastics but may show wear differently.
- Hybrid/composite — blends (e.g., fiberglass cores with carbon fiber faces) to balance cost and weight.
Material choice affects weight, durability, finish, and price. Carbon fiber offers a premium look and weight savings but costs significantly more; fiberglass is more forgiving for novice builders but may require more prep and painting. Polyurethane provides a good balance of durability and cost.
Installation approaches
How a kit is installed matters for fit, warranty, and legality. Most widebody kits can be installed as bolt-on packages or weld-on modifications, with a licensed shop often needed for best results.
- Bolt-on (clr: bolt-on or non-permanent) — designed for reversible installation using existing mounting points and brackets; typically easier and cheaper to install.
- Weld-on (permanent) — requires cutting, seam welding, and sometimes reinforcement; often provides a cleaner, integrated look but is work-intensive and non-reversible.
- Hybrid — combines bolt-on pieces with selective welds or brackets to improve rigidity while preserving some reversibility.
Installation method can affect warranty terms, alignment, paint quality, and road legality. Professional installation is advised to ensure proper fitment, z-finish, and safe clearance around wheels, suspension, and steering components.
Legal and practical considerations
Widening a car’s stance can impact legality, insurance, and everyday practicality. Some jurisdictions require emissions, safety, or inspection attestations for significant body modifications, and insurance may require disclosure of cosmetic and performance changes. Wheel width, offset, and tire choices must align with the new fender arches to avoid rubbing and maintain safe handling.
Beyond legality, buyers should consider fitment with existing components (brakes, wheels, tires, and suspension), paint and finish work, and potential resale implications. A properly installed widebody kit typically benefits from professional alignment, repainting, and, in some cases, additional structural reinforcement.
Summary
A widebody kit expands a car’s stance by adding wider fenders, bumpers, and side skirts, with optional aero elements to customize the look and performance. Kits vary widely in material (fiberglass, polyurethane, carbon fiber, and composites) and installation style (bolt-on, weld-on, or hybrid). When selecting a kit, consider fit to the model, material quality, installation requirements, and local legal or insurance implications. A professional, properly aligned installation will help ensure safe, durable, and visually cohesive results.
