Abstract: A hinge arm for a vehicle includes a tubular member having a first portion for attaching a panel thereto, a second portion for pivotally mounting to the vehicle, and a third portion for rigidly interconnecting the first and second portions so that the panel can be stably moved in a defined arc between open and closed positions. The first portion is shaped to provide panel attachment and includes a flattened side, two lateral sides extending therefrom, and an opposite side that is partially deformed against the lateral sides to support the flat side. The second portion includes a flattened wall with a transverse hole establishing an axis of rotation, and an extruded support surface extruded from the wall around the hole to improve durability. The third portion rigidly interconnects the first and second portions, and is shaped to avoid interferences on the vehicle, receive wires for routing therein, and provide drainage for moisture collected therein.