Auto body repair & detailing: BMW x3

Question

Side view   I have a 2013 BMW x3 that was hit in the rear driver side while I was stopped.  The body shop has cut off the back bout 1/2 to 1/3 of the unibody and is replacing it in pieces.  I believe this is unsafe and that they should replace the entire side, likely resulting in a total loss of my car.  My insurance company does not seem knowledgeable about this, but the adjuster is going back for a second look in a few days.  I am trying to find any resources I can to show to the appraiser.  Can you help?  Thanks.

Answer
Hi Hillary!....Thanks so much for the picture, as this definitely helps me out. In regards to cutting off the 1/4 panel and replacing it, including the inner structure in pieces, this is actually a proper repair procedure if the shop is using factory parts, as there are generally no complete 1/4 panel sections available from any manufacturer. To replace the entire side as one complete unit, the only option would be to get a used 1/4 panel assembly from the Auto Wreckers. The end result will be exactly the same as long as the Technician uses proper repair procedures. So please do not worry. From the picture you sent, and from what I can determine from it, it looks like they have drilled out the spot welds, (evidence is the holes you can see around the flanges and where they have grinded), and sprayed a grey colored weld through primer where they have spliced, (check out just below the 1/4 window where they have vise grips clamped). So far the Technician is following proper repair procedures in regards to splicing and corrosion protection. So far so good. The next step will be to splice the 1/4 panel using the same method. If the Technician continues this type of repair, and as long as they follow the manufacturer's instructions, I honestly do not see a problem. One last word of advice. Make sure you get a written guarantee on workmanship, and test drive the vehicle before you sign off on any paperwork. ...If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to write me back....Thanks....Dave