Car repairs can be expensive. Some fixes can go for as low as $100, while others cost over $3,000. One auto part that could demand that much money is the quarter panel. It’s a body component susceptible to damage, and it could leave you with a hefty repair bill if left unresolved.
Quarter panels refer to the car’s exterior body panels. Usually made of metal, steel, aluminum alloy, or plastic, they provide structure to the vehicle. They don’t directly affect performance, so some drivers don’t worry about getting them damaged or dented.
A car typically has two quarter panels at the rear, between the rear door and the trunk or bed, depending on the model and vehicle type. If you’re unsure where the panel is, you can look for the seams or bolts that mark it.
The panels’ location is the reason why panels accumulate dirt (because of the rotating wheels) and why they’re often damaged in minor accidents.
Quarter panels are crucial because they provide character and a defined shape to the rear side of the vehicle. They give structural support to the chassis and serve as an added layer of protection to the engine, transmission, and other car parts against collisions.
The three main reasons quarter panels get damaged are collisions, rust or corrosion, and environmental factors.
Because even the slightest impact could leave dents or scratches on them, quarter panels are often damaged during collisions. The severity of the damage depends on several factors, including impact, force, size of the object, and more. Thankfully, dents and scratches on quarter panels are repairable.
Quarter panels are exposed to the elements, which is why they’re likely to rust and corrode.
Corrosion starts when metal is exposed to moisture and oxygen; both elements are more abundant in the open. Quarter panels become even more susceptible to rust if their metal part is exposed after an accident.
Exposure to road salts, pollutants, and moisture in high-humidity climates can also accelerate the corrosion process. Keep an eye out for the signs of rust, such as brown patches on the metal, bubbling paint, and holes in the panel.
Lastly, exposure to various environmental factors, such as sun, rain, and snow, can break down the paint and metal. As mentioned above, this could lead to corrosion and weaken the panel’s structure.
As such, it’s crucial to park your vehicle in enclosed spaces to avoid over-exposure to the elements. If you can’t park in the shade, car covers are a solid alternative.
It’s also recommended to regularly wash your vehicle to remove lingering dirt and debris that could corrode the auto body. If you live near the sea (where salt is abundant in the air) or in humid locations, wash your car at least twice a month to prevent residue buildup.
Thankfully, it’s easy to spot if the quarter panel is damaged or not. Telltale signs include the following:
If you see these red flags, assess if they’re serious enough to warrant a replacement or a fix. Minor dents and scratches can be repaired with the right tools and procedure, while holes caused by rust or collision damage require quarter panel replacement.
There are different ways to repair minor dents on quarter panels. One reliable way to do it is to use a dent removal kit, which typically has everything you’ll need for the job. While the steps might vary, the process usually includes the following steps:
If you don’t have a remover kit, lightly hammering out the dent from inside the panel is a good alternative. Just make sure you don’t damage the paint.
Of course, there is also the option of taking your car to a mechanic for a more professional repair. They’ll do a better job fixing the panel because mechanics have the proper tools and know-how.
As for the price, it depends on a handful of factors, including vehicle type, replacement costs, hourly rate, parts used during the process, and more. Generally, the price of quarter panel repairs ranges from $100 up to over $3,000. Find a shop that specializes in auto body repair for the best prices.
If the damage is irreparable, the next best option is to replace the quarter panel. To do so, follow the steps below:
This process is arguably harder than repairing the panel, so it’s best to leave it to a professional if you’re not confident you can do the job yourself. The price for quarter panel replacement differs, but the factors affecting it are similar to panel repair.
Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.