Tire Rubbing on Inner Fender When Turning: Diagnosis and Practical Ways to Fix

A recent study found that nearly 30% of drivers encounter tire rubbing issues, particularly when making sharp turns [Source: Study Finds].

If ignored, this common problem will lead to long-term damage, such as worn-out tires, compromised suspension, or even steering difficulties.

You're not alone if you’ve experienced grinding or rubbing noises when turning. Understanding the causes and how to fix them quickly is key to keeping your car safe and smooth.

Let’s explore practical ways to address tire rubbing effectively.

Key Causes of Tire Rubbing on Inner Fender

Tire rubbing during turns happens due to several factors:

1. Fat Tires in Skinny Wells

Oversized tires in narrow wheel wells often scrape the fender during sharp turns or when the steering is at full lock. For example, mounting a 265/35R18 tire on a 245-spec wheel well creates an overhang that leads to consistent rubbing. The fix is simple. You can install wheel spacers to increase clearance or downsize the tires to the correct specification. 

2. Sagging Suspension

Worn shocks or bushings lower your car’s clearance, causing tires to rub against the fender especially during turns. This problem often appears around 50,000 miles with older suspension components. Replacing the shocks and performing an alignment restores proper height and turning radius. This eliminates rubbing and prevents accelerated wear on both tires and fender.

3. Crooked Wheels

Even a small misalignment of two degrees can push the tires into the fender. Misalignment is usually caused by hitting potholes or skipping regular alignments. The solution is a four-wheel alignment which corrects the wheel angles, stops rubbing, and prevents uneven tire wear.

4. Mangled Fender Liner 

A loose or damaged fender liner allows tires to constantly brush against the fender. This happens after pothole hits or broken clips. Reattaching the liner or replacing it with new clips restores the gap and prevents further contact, protecting both the tire and the bodywork from damage.

Tire Rubbing Step-by-Step Diagnosis

To identify the issue, follow these steps:

Step 1: Check Tire Size

Check the tire size by comparing the sidewall stamp with the factory spec on the door jamb. Tires that are wider than recommended can rub the fender liner during sharp turns. Full lock wheel check reveals if rubbing occurs.

Step 2: Inspect Suspension Sag

Bounce the front corners three times. Slow rebound or nose dive during turns indicates worn shocks. Measure the hub-to-fender gap; less than 13 inches signals sagging suspension.

Step 3: Examine Wheel Alignment

Uneven tread wear, especially deeper outer tread, indicates misalignment. A toe-out of approximately 2 degrees can cause rubbing and steering pull.

Step 4: Inspect Fender Liner

Turn the wheels fully and use a flashlight to inspect the fender liner. Loose liners or popped clips allow constant tire rubbing and can catch debris.

Practical Fixes for Tire Rubbing

Once you identify the cause, apply these fixes:

Tire Size Check

Start by checking the tire size against the OEM spec on the door jamb. Many rubbing issues come from tires that are even slightly wider than the wheel wells allow. If the tire is too wide, it will hit the fender during full lock turns, especially on sharp corners.

• Compare sidewall stamp with OEM spec

• Full lock results in tire touching liner

• +20mm width is a common cause of rubbing

• DIY fix options include wheel spacers for 50 dollars or swapping to correct size

  
  

Suspension Sag Check

Bounce the front corners three times. If the car does not rebound smoothly, the shocks may be worn. Worn shocks lower clearance and allow the tire to rub the fender during turns.

• Measure hub-to-fender gap, less than 13 inches indicates sag

• Nose dives on corners are a warning sign

• 1.5 inch drop corresponds to 27 percent of rubbing cases

• DIY fix with KYB kit costs around 400 dollars or full shop replacement

  
  

Alignment / Crooked Wheel Scan

Check the tread for uneven wear. Inner edges wearing faster than outer edges usually indicate toe-out alignment issues. Misaligned wheels can make tires hit the fender even if suspension is fine.

• Inner tread bald while outer tread is deeper indicates toe-out

• Steering pulls accompanied by rubbing

• Two degree misalignment causes 15 percent of rubbing cases

• Fix with four wheel alignment takes 45 minutes and costs 150 dollars

  
  

Fender Liner Check

Inspect the liner for looseness, popped clips, or dents. Minor gaps can allow the tire to scrape the fender, especially on bumpy roads or tight turns.

• Flashlight inspection at full lock

• Wiggle liner to check for loose or broken clips

• Debris trapped under liner increases rubbing risk

• Fix includes replacing liner and clips for 25 dollars

Preventive Tips for Long-Term Solutions

Prevent tire rubbing issues with these strategies:

• Regular Maintenance: Keep your suspension and alignment in top condition through scheduled inspections.

• Choose the Right Tires: Always select tires that match your car’s specifications, especially after making modifications.

• Monitor Load Limits: Avoid carrying heavy loads that can compress the suspension and reduce clearance.

When to Consult a Professional

Some issues require expert attention, such as:

• Persistent rubbing despite trying fixes.

• Severe damage to the fender or suspension.

• Complex alignment issues need specialized tools.

Timely professional help ensures safety and avoids further damage.

Drive Without Worries: Flex Auto Has You Covered

Tire rubbing on your inner fender can compromise both safety and comfort, but Flex Auto in Orlando offers the expertise to solve it quickly and effectively.

Whether your car needs professional alignment, suspension repairs, or tire adjustments, our team ensures precise and lasting fixes.

With years of experience and advanced tools, we guarantee smooth and safe driving—no more grinding noises or uneven tire wear.

Beyond solving tire rubbing issues, we provide a full suite of automotive services, including oil changes, brake repairs, engine diagnostics, AC repairs, and more.

At Flex Auto, we’re committed to keeping your car in peak condition. Visit us or Book Online today to experience reliable service that prioritizes your driving experience.