Expert: Gary - 3/27/2009

Question
When returning to my car in a public parking lot I noticed the left rear quarter panel was gaping at the forward connecting seam (sticking out about 1/4") - I'm guessing that someone hit my rear bumper. It appears (by looking inside the slight gap)that the quarter panel is attached with plastic or nylon clips that, some of which have broken. I have been advised that there are some adhesives that could be used to repair (3M or Fusor or maybe PPG) I have guessed that this repair at a body shop would be fairly expensive. The gap is almost only cosmetic but is noticeable.
Any comment you care to make would be appreciated - especially the brand and product number of an adhesive acceptable for this type repair.
Thanks, Jim McNeal

Answer
Hi Jim,

I would recommend going to a body shop supply store and getting the correct clips for your bumper because any repair adhesive you buy no matter the brand is going to be very expensive. Most cost around $40 per tube and require expensive applicator gun to apply. It may be cheaper for you to look for a salvage bumper the right color at a salvage yard.