1/4 panel question

[Dudley03]

hey has anyone had to replace a rear quarter panel and if so did you do it yourself? how much did it cost, was it hard, etc...?
thanks

[FourthGenHatch]

They have to be welded in since they are attached to the frame. I heard someone say $900 once but I am hoping that is for both sides and not just one.

[jc836]

I recently estimated this at my body shop and they want over $1100 per side including everything. The Honda panels go for around $500. This is a job that requires some very careful work as it is a stressed member. To really do it right means cutting the panel off so that the new one fits into the hatch lip area. You are also looking at having some metalwork done to the inner panels as part of this. There are shops that can do it for less-just make sure they are properly equipped.

[FourthGenHatch]

You don't need to replace the whole panel. Most if not all rust will be found right at the bottom of the fender. And there is enough room there to cut that off then weld in a new piece. I saw on hondaautomotiveparts.com they make a very small section of the rear fender now I guess because rust there is so common, so you don't have to buy the whole huge panel.

And for $1100 a side I would rather get a new Civic than saved my rusty one.

[jc836]

My reply is based on the worst case. I agree that partial panels are readily available and if done right will last. Whatever one does-if the car has a sunroof, do make sure that it is draining properly.
I was about to buy a car that needed this work done and agree that if the panel and under pieces are real bad, you may well be considering another direction.