I have an eight inch long dent, maybe 3/4 inch deep at the deepest, and four inches wide in the top corner of the quarter panel right between the roof and the window, just in front of the spoiler. (I'll try to get a picture up) A pole at my neighbor's house fell on my '09 Fit.

One body shop quoted $3K to replace the quarter panel. He claims a "bondo job" is not the way to go on a new car. Another body shop said a new quarter is not the way to go, as you want to disturb as little to the car as possible. His quote was $1100.

As the neighbor is paying for the repair, the cost of either method is not a consideration for me - I want what's best for the car. My last car I had for 16 years, so I am concerned about the longevity of the repair.

Which do you guys think is the way to go? Thanks for any advice.

 

From what I can see in the photo, I wouldn't replace the panel. A skilled worker can "undent" it to very close to original shape and with very little filler and refinish, it'll be hard to see if anything had happened there.

Disturbing the whole stock quarter panel would be worse in the long run. imo.

 

if you have not taken it to a honda dealer take it there. the honda body shop will know the right method. good luck!

 

from what i understand, ANY damage to the quarter panel is automatically considered frame damage to the insurance company since our cars are unibody. Quarter panel fixes are EXTREMELY expensive. if a pole fell out of your neighbor's house, wouldn't it fall under homeowner's insurance?

 

with the side curtain airbag it might be difficult for the pdr tech to get in there without damaging the srs.

 

I have no advice, but DAMMITTT!!!!!!!!!