My 2008 FL2 is showing signs of rust in the usual places on the rear sills and wheel arches. It’s always hard to know how bad the decay is until it’s cut open but I’ve been told that it needs these panels fitted on each side plus probably an interior panel along the top of the wheel arch. I should add that outwardly, the corrosion is primarily at the area where the wheel arch joins the sill and in the forward part of the inside edge of the wheel arch. To my eye there doesn’t seem to be much along the top of the wheel arch so that piece may not be needed.


The cost being quoted - not counting the panels themselves - is some £1500 plus VAT. There’s clearly a lot of work in fitting these panels plus painting but I have no idea whether this price is reasonable or not. The guy comes highly recommended by people whose judgement I trust so I’ve no doubt the job would be a good 'un.

Has anyone any experience of fitting these parts and the costs involved?

I did my DS, PS in UK, last year. I had a friend do up a paint match and we grounded and sanded out the rust....surface rust that was bubbling the arch, 1st quarter of the lower farward rear arch. Used Por 15, primer and paint. I also put back the arch gasket.

Ultimately, once the rust was removed, the arch was actually fine. I guess it depends on how much rust or any porforation there is to begin with. Replacing the arches is a much more permanent but costly solution. I also wash under the arches religiously weekly in the winter now.

Thanks MotionInc

I must admit I’m wondering if we really need to be going as far as replacing panels. I think I’ll have another chat with the guy but I’d welcome others' experience.