Expert: David Caulfield - 5/28/2008

Question
Hi, what is the proper way to repair the rear rail crush zone area on a 2005 scion xb? It was rear ended and wrinkled the rails right behind the spring mounts. thanks andrew

Answer
Andrew, I am unable to view your damage via your question, so therefore I do not know the severity or precise location to give an accurate answer. Based solely on your question; the vehicle should be set up on a dedicated bench system using a jig system to measure and blueprint the repair. When a vehicle has damage as bad as you say, frame rails are often pulled on a frame pulling system first to determine further operation. Some rails look like they need replaced and after initial pull; they don't need replaced. Please go to a local dependable, family or friend referred shop and get a live view opinion. They will want to set the car up on a frame rack to determine an initial estimate. Each shop handles these frame issues differently. Bottom line, frame needs pulled and then evaluate replace or repair and method of repair from that point on. Hope this helps, David