Expert: Mark Haben - 5/23/2007

Question
Hi, we have a 2004 Honda CRV. There is a bubble of rust near the back of the roof. I was told this was probably caused by very toxic bird droppings. One body shop said they could repair by taking the affected area down to the metal and repainting. Another bidy shop says the whole roof needs to be repainted and the interior headliner needs to be removed to inspect to make sure there is no rust on the inside. As you can imagine, the difference in estimates is about $1200. Can you comment?

Answer
Leon-

There are reasons for removing the headliner, but they should not include to "inspect for rust on the underside." Only if- in order to paint they need to remove the roof rack should they need to remove the headliner, and even then not always. The rust would have to be severe!!! Perforated actually. If you don't plan to keep the vehicle forever you could save money by requesting that the painter only refinish the affected area or "spot it in."