rear qurter panels

TomTom · March 18, 2002

Have not even made my first payment on my truck and some a@# decided to run a red light and hit my BRAND NEW truck. (Passenger side of the bed behind the rear wheel) To make matters worse they decided to keep going. What ever happened to responsibilty for your actions? Anyhow, after much screaming, a few beers, and an understanding wife I have realized life goes on. My question is- I don't really want bondo, how much to replace the side with new panel? And will an insurance company go for the extra cost? Also scratched up the rear wheel, which I want replaced. The damage is really not that extensive I am just hopping mad and want the truck like new again. Or as close as I can get. Thanks for your help.

HillHound · March 18, 2002

Tom,

Are you talking about the bedside? I had the same exact panel replaced on my 2001 after some kid backed a box trailer into it last spring. The passenger side panel was crumpled. between the taillight and wheelwell. The GM replacement piece cost $600.10, the Z71 sticker $7.50, and $13.70 for a bracket that got bent.

Now, the kicker thats gonna cost you is the fact that the bed is spot welded to the fender and these welds have to be cut and rewelded prior to painting the new panel. The total bill ended up being about $1300 including parts and labor. The guy did a great job-the paint is perfect and he showed me the welds prior to paining and he did an excellent job with those too. Here's a photo of the damage:

And another of my truck with the bed removed-they took the whole bed assembly off to put it on a welding rack and painted it before putting it back on:

Anyways I hope this helps you. I'd definitely get the panel replaced since your truck is new and I'd also get a genuine GM replacement part instead of an offname. If you don't turn it in to insurance (if feasible) the body shop may give you a discount if you pay cash. It took about 10 days to get the parts and do all the work. Good luck & it'll be fixed in no time.