Expert: William Forster - 10/21/2007

Question
QUESTION: I have a 98 Nissan pathfinder, both front fenders are rusting at the wheel wells due to chrome fender trim that was added (aftermarket). They have to be replaced,can I do this without removing the bumper or hood. Also how good are the aftermarket fenders? Thanks Rich Ochs

ANSWER: Removal of the bumper and hood is small potatoes compared to removing the fenders. The hood won't need removed, but the bumper surely will. The aftermarket fenders are better than rusted out originals, and cheaper, too. They will be fine. They won't be perfect, but if you want perfect, you will have to pay the premium price for factory original equipment. They rusted out in 10 years, so are you really farther ahead putting them on after the car is a decade old? Absolutely not. Go cheap. You might even be able to purchase some pre-painted panels on Ebay, but I won't guarantee a perfect match. Bill

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: you say the actual removal of the fender is the hard part, maybe I'm missing something, but looking at it and at the Pathfinder factory service manual it doesn't seem to hard. Please correct me if I'm wrong. Thanks Rich Ochs

Answer
Rich, You are wrong. Rusty bolts snap, or twist any parts bolted to them- like the front lower valance panel, if equipped, or where the fenders bolt to the front lower radiator support. It's probably going to be a dirty, crusty, pain in the ass to remove them. If you have a manual, and already have instructions in print on how how to do this, why are you asking me for help on parts removal? My guess is, you are trying to second guess the book and find a short cut. I have none for you. I only answer 3 questions a day, let someone who really needs my help ask a question.