Caution: Refer to Approved Equipment for Collision Repair Caution in the Preface section.

Important: When replacing panels that involve servicing of stationary glass, refer to Adhesive Installation of Stationary Windows before performing any priming or refinishing.

1. Disable the SIR system. Refer to SIR Disabling and Enabling .
2. Disconnect the negative battery cable. Refer to Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection .



3. Remove all related panels and components.
4. Repair as much of the damage as possible to factory specifications. Refer to Dimensions - Body .

Caution: Refer to Foam Sound Deadeners Caution in the Preface section.

5. Note the location and remove the sealers and anti-corrosion materials from the repair area, as necessary. Refer to Anti-Corrosion Treatment and Repair .
6. Perform the necessary procedures to gain access to the repair area. Refer to Radiator Upper Support Replacement , Front Wheelhouse Replacement .



7. Separate the floor pan reinforcement  (1) weld flanges from the inside of the lower rail. Care must be taken not to damage the weld flanges.

Important: Do not damage any inner panels or reinforcements.

8. Locate and drill out all factory welds. Note the number and location of the welds for installation of the front lower rail.



9. Remove the damaged rail.

1. Prepare the mating surface of the floor pan reinforcement  (1).
2. Turn the weld flanges outward  (2) to be welded to the front lower rail.
3. Drill 8 mm (5/16 in) plug weld holes as necessary in the locations noted from the removal.



4. Prepare all mating surfaces as necessary.
5. Apply GM-approved Weld-Thru coating or equivalent to all mating surfaces. Refer to Anti-Corrosion Treatment and Repair .



6. Position the service part.



7. Plug weld accordingly.
8. Complete the necessary procedures. Refer to Radiator Upper Support Replacement , Front Wheelhouse Replacement .
9. Clean and prepare all of the welded surfaces.



10. Apply the sealers and anti-corrosion materials to the repair area, as necessary. Refer to Anti-Corrosion Treatment and Repair .
11. Paint and repair the area. Refer to Basecoat/Clearcoat Paint Systems .
12. Install all related panels and components.
13. Connect the negative battery cable. Refer to Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection .
14. Enable the SIR system. Refer to SIR Disabling and Enabling .