What Size Trailer Fenders Fit 16” Wheels? Complete Compatibility Guide

Sixteen-inch trailer wheels are one of the most common sizes used across utility trailers, equipment trailers, cargo trailers, and car haulers. Because 16” tires come in a wide range of widths and load capacities, choosing the correct trailer fender requires understanding tire dimensions, wheel clearance, and industry-standard fender sizes.

This guide provides a precise, authoritative breakdown of what size trailer fenders correctly fit 16” wheels.

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1. Understanding 16” Trailer Wheel and Tire Dimensions

A “16-inch wheel” refers only to the rim diameter. What actually determines fender size is the overall tire diameter and width.

Common 16” trailer tire models include:

• ST225/75R16 (very common)

• LT235/85R16 (heavy-duty equipment tires)

• ST235/80R16

• ST205/75R16

Typical Tire Dimensions

Across these models, most 16” tires measure:

• Overall diameter: ~28”–31”

• Tread width: ~7.5”–9”

• Section width: ~8”–9.5”

These numbers determine the minimum fender width and height required.

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2. Required Fender Width for 16” Wheels

**Recommended Fender Width:

✔ 9 inches or 10 inches**

Which width you choose depends on your tire model:

9-inch width works for:

• ST205/75R16

• ST225/75R16

• Narrower utility tires

These tires typically max out around 8” wide, leaving proper clearance inside a 9” fender.

10-inch width is recommended for:

• ST235/80R16

• LT235/85R16

• Heavy-duty 16” tires with wider sidewalls

• Trailers carrying vehicles or equipment

A 10” width ensures:

• 1” clearance on each side

• Proper room for tire flex under load

• Compatibility with future tire upgrades

If you’re unsure which to choose, 10” is the safer and more universal option.

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3. Required Fender Height for 16” Wheels

**Recommended Fender Height:

✔ 16–18 inches**

A typical 16” tire has a diameter around 29–31 inches.

To maintain proper clearance, the fender must offer:

• 2–4 inches of vertical clearance above the tire

• Room for suspension travel

• Protection from debris

Most steel fenders for 16” wheels fall in the 16–18” height range.

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4. Correct Fender Length for 16” Wheels (Single vs Tandem)

Single-Axle Trailer

Use fenders between:

• 28”–32” length

• 9” or 10” width

• 12–15” height

These dimensions match the tire diameter and coverage needed for 16” wheels.

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Tandem-Axle Trailer

Use:

✔ 72” fenders (industry standard)

Recommended profiles:

• 72×10×17 teardrop

• 72×9×17 teardrop

• 69×10 radius

Why 72 inches?

Because 16” wheels on tandem trailers almost always follow standard axle spacing (33–36 inches), which aligns perfectly with 72-inch fenders.

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5. Best Fender Materials for 16” Wheel Trailers

14-Gauge Steel (Best Overall)

• Durable

• Weldable

• Ideal for equipment and utility trailers

16-Gauge Steel

• Suitable for light-duty only

Diamond Plate Steel

• Extra rigidity

• Slip-resistant for stepping

Aluminum

• Great for coastal or boat trailers

• Typically bolt-on only

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6. Clearance Requirements for 16” Wheels

Always maintain:

Vertical Clearance

• 2–4 inches between the top of the tire and underside of fender

Horizontal Clearance

• 1 inch minimum on each side of the tire

End Clearance (Tandem Only)

• Adequate room for suspension travel between tires

Failing to maintain these clearances may result in rubbing or premature fender cracking.

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7. Quick Fitment Reference Chart for 16” Wheels

Trailer Type	Recommended Fender Size	Width	Height
Single axle	28”–32” fender	9”–10”	12”–15”
Tandem axle (light duty)	72×9×17	9”	17”
Tandem axle (standard duty)	72×10×17	10”	17”
Tandem axle (heavy duty)	72×10 diamond plate	10”	17–18”

 

This covers almost all fitment scenarios for trailers using 16-inch tires.

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8. When 16” Tires Require a 10-Inch-Wide Fender

Choose 10-inch width if:

• Your tire section width exceeds 8.5”

• You haul equipment or vehicles

• You tow long distances or at highway speeds

• You want maximum clearance and future tire flexibility

10-inch is becoming the new standard as more manufacturers shift to wider, heavy-duty 16” tires.

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Conclusion

Trailers equipped with 16-inch wheels typically require 9-inch or 10-inch-wide fenders with a height of 16–18 inches. For single-axle trailers, 28–32” fenders are appropriate, while tandem-axle trailers almost always use 72-inch-length steel fenders in either 9” or 10” widths.

By matching tire diameter, width, axle spacing, and clearance requirements, you ensure safe, long-lasting fender performance.