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 repair. Refer to Upper Rail Replacement and Rocker Panel Replacement , Windshield Lower Panel Replacement , Windshield Replacement .




Important: Do not damage any inner panels or reinforcements.

7. Locate and drill out all factory welds. Note the number and location of welds for installation of the front hinge pillar.



8. Remove the damaged front hinge pillar.

Important: If the location of the original plug weld holes can not be determined, or if structural weld-thru adhesive is present, space the plug weld holes every 40 mm (1½ in) apart.

1. Drill 8 mm (5/16 in) plug weld holes as necessary in locations noted from the original panel.
2. Prepare all mating surfaces as necessary.
3. Apply GM-approved Weld-Thru coating or equivalent to all mating surfaces. Refer to Anti-Corrosion Treatment and Repair .



4. Position the hinge pillar.



5. Plug weld accordingly.
6. Complete the necessary procedures. Refer to Upper Rail Replacement and Rocker Panel Replacement , Windshield Lower Panel Replacement , Windshield Replacement .
7. Clean and prepare all welded surfaces.
8. Apply the sealers and anti-corrosion materials to the repair area, as necessary. Refer to Anti-Corrosion Treatment and Repair .
9. Paint the repair area. Refer to Basecoat/Clearcoat Paint Systems .
10. Install all related panels and components.
11. Connect the negative battery cable. Refer to Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection .
12. Enable the SIR system. Refer to SIR Disabling and Enabling .