My beloved '07 was recently injured, apparently beyond repair (as determined by the insurance company). The damage does not seem that significant to me, but the high price of parts / labor and the low price of old Vibes is working against me. I am certain the decision will be "total loss", but I'm not ready to give up and am looking at ways to fix it "myself" (with lots of help from friends and family).
The door and fender seem relatively easy, but the rocker panel may be a little more tricky. Damage is confined to only about 12" way up front, but that portion is deformed "in" and "up" enough that even a new door will not seal properly. My thoughts are that cutting out the whole rocker panel will cause more harm than good, and a better approach might be to cut out the affected section and try to make a new insert of some sort to cover the hole. Some tell me that would work; others say the car is not structurally sound unless I replace the whole rocker panel. (It has absorbed one impact, and so may have lost most/all of its protective capability (in their view).)
Request feedback from Vibe lovers with more knowledge than I have about how best to proceed. Thanks in advance!
(Picture included to try to show extent of damage.)
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'09 Base (2.4L)
'07 Base (damaged)
'05 Base
'04 Base
'03 Base (RIP)