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

Important: Rear outer wheelhouse sectioning procedures have been developed to simplify repair when damage is limited to the outer wheelhouse. In the event the inner wheelhouse is to be replaced, install outer wheelhouse service panel at factory seams.

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, including the quarter panel.

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

4. Note the location and remove the sealers and anti-corrosion materials from the repair area, as necessary. Refer to Anti-Corrosion Treatment and Repair .
5. Visually inspect and repair as much of the damage as possible.



6. Apply a strip of 25 mm (1 in) masking tape along the flange of the outer wheelhouse (1).

Important: Do not damage any inner panels or reinforcements.

7. Locate, mark, and drill out all factory spot welds attaching the front and rear lower section of the outer wheelhouse to the vehicle.



8. Cut along the outboard side of the masking tape to leave a 25 mm (1 in) tab (1) attached to the inner wheelhouse.
9. Remove the damaged outer wheelhouse.

1. Cut the wheelhouse service part along the corner of the bend to remove the down-turned weld flange (1).

Important: If the location of the original plug weld holes can not be determined, space the plug weld holes 40 mm (1½ in) apart.

2. Drill 8 mm (5/16 in) holes for plug welding every 40 mm (1½ in) along the cut edge.



3. Prepare mating surfaces as necessary.
4. Apply GM-approved weld-thru coating or equivalent to all mating surfaces. Refer to Anti-Corrosion Treatment and Repair .
5. Position the service and inspect for proper fit.
6. Plug weld accordingly (1).
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 and repair the 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 .