QuestionWe have a 2008 Honda Fit, it was involved in a 30-40 mph crash on the drivers side. It crushed the door column so far into the car that the floor is bowed inward,the top of the car is bent inward, and of course the bar below the doors bows in. I went by the body shop, which was recommended by their insurance company to check on the repairs,and asked how such a repair would be done. They said they would "just cut the column out and bolt in a new one, fits right in " Is this a repair that would be approved by someone from Honda?
Answer This sounds like a reputable shop, and Yes, this is the only route a Honda dealership shop would
take from the damage that you had described.
In this area the section they will be replacing is kind of shaped like a giant I, and comprised
of your upper roof panel brace, the door jamb itself which houses and actuates the door latch
and lock. The lower portion being the sill, or whats known as the rocker panel.
These parts or part will be shaved off after the proper pulls are made for alignment. Then
properly fit sheetmetal screwed into place, then welded on and of course refinished.This new
part will be OEM Honda / or the "Original Equipment Manufactured" I don't believe this part can
be purchased aftermarket. And don't be afraid to tell them to make sure and apply the Honda
chip /road gravel guard on the new part, as this is at times overlooked.
I hope this information gives you a little more in sight about the repair. Relax.. bill
