Hi-

I am attending an auction at an insurance salvage yard
and am interested in a car that has been hit in the rear.

There is no frame damage, but the trunk, bumper, and rear side
panels need to be replaced. How hard is this to do? I mean,
can I just buy new sheet metal parts and bolt them on?
Is it this easy? I understand that there might be other work
that may have to be completed by a shop... but can a competent
do-it-yourselfer handle this kind of stuff?

Same thing with a damaged door... can I buy a new or salvage yard
door and put it on? How are cars actually constructed...

Any help is appreciated.
Thanks

A junkyard would prob. give the best price depending on how new the car is. Dealerships sale to, but some may or may not be higher than the junkyard. I say shop around for parts cars.

Try to find another car that was hit in the front. Any parts that you need will be between the two. Most cars are spot welded and/or bolted together. Tear it down and find out as you go. If anything, it'll be a good learning tool.