Pre and Post bodywork checks please

[PeterE320Cdi]

Hi everyone,

I am going to be having the rust repaired on my W210. The affected parts are, all wheel arches, all doors and rear tailgate!

Please can you suggest what action/checks I should take before I take the car in and when I get it back?

Also does anyone know if the door rubbers should be replaced in the process as I have heard that once removed they do not go back on right and new ones should be fitted?

Thanks

Peter.

 

[trevlacm]

Peter,

1. Very carefully check ALL other areas of the car. i.e engine cross member, underbody of car, spare wheel well, headlamp surrounds, top of windscreen etc.

2. Take photo's of all the areas concerned.

3. Establish whether or not the bodyshop are going to "repair" or replace the panels. Push for replacement if possible, as they only blast back the visible corrosion, but obviously cannot get to the rust underneath folded panel edges, which will rust again in time.

4. Get them to waxoyl like mad after they have finished spraying.

5. When you get the car back, check very closely for colour match and finish quality. DO NOT accept anything less than perfect.

6. Make sure all electrics work.

7. Check for overspray.

Remember, it's your car so don't accept it unless you are 100% happy.

I am not crazy or over fussy, but I'm speaking from experience. It took me over 6 months to get my car back in an acceptable condition.

Good luck with the repairs

Regards

Mark.