QuestionHi Dave -
I am looking at purchasing a salvage vehicle that has had an impact to the side of the vehicle. The damage is predominantly on the passenger door, but has also effected the rear door and center support. Replacing the doors would be no problem for me. My question is the center support. I can tell it has been impacted. Looks to be distorted approximately 1/2 inch near the bottom of the support. Is it difficult to realign the center support or is this area of the vehicle too crucial for the integrity of the car? It is a 2006 Lexus IS250. Thanks
AnswerHi Ryan! First of all, my advice is to see exactly how this vehicle is " Flagged "...Meaning, if the vehicle, once repaired, is able to re-insured and re-registered.....Here in Canada, and in the province that I live in, a " salvage " vehicle, is exactly that....It can only be used for salvage/parts, and cannot be re-registered or re-insured.....So please check that out before you decide to purchase this vehicle....If all checks out, then you can continue with the repairs.....As far as the center support, or "B" pillar goes, these can be repaired, or replaced, depending on the severity of the damage....Depending on the angle of impact, these can be just be pushed straight in, twisted, or both.....What you will need, is at least a pull tower, clamps, a dimension chart, and a way to tie it down to the floor...If you do not have access to this equipment, I would recommend talking to a local bodyshop, and see if they are willing to repair the B pillar for you.....They will also need the doors to hang, to make sure everything is perfectly lined up....After this is done, then you can replace the doors yourself as you had mentioned....Any further questions, please write me back...Hope this helps...Dave
