Cost to repair hatch rust? (7 Viewers)

[Gartenmeister]

I'm considering (purchase of) an LX long-distance that has rust in the upper tailgate. Otherwise the car is generally rust-free and photos from the underside, engine bay, under tailgate flap etc show no other concerns at all, it is actually pretty clean. I've done some searching here and I gather that the problem is common and is caused by the failure of 3rd brake light seal. I understand that when the problem is serious the hatch gets replaced. Also I see that some of you have valiantly attempted DIY repairs. I am not interested in either of those solutions but I am curious what it would take to have it professorially repaired. Has anyone had this done, or received quote for same? Seller seems to think it wouldn't cost much but we know that goes.

Thanks

 

[OwnerCS]

They all rust. Even Texas 100s that haven't touched a grain of salt. There is wiring on the inside of the tailgate that is wrapped in a cloth tape and touches against the metal near the license plate on the inside. Soap from a car wash will get into the cloth tape and cause rust to form on the inside of the tailgate. I had to have that section of metal cut out and a new section welded in with some bondo and whatever to took to reform the metal.

 

[2001LC]

Most do not have rust. Find parts rig without rust. Swap out.

 

[baltistyle]

My 06 is completely rust free without even a spec. Since this is generally not the first area to rust, I would do a much more thorough check of the underside, especially to check the rear members. I wouldn’t buy anything that’s been painted or coated or fixed.

If you truly only found rust on the hatch (which I honestly think is highly unlikely), it’s probably less expensive to buy a used hatch with zero rust.

 

[Gartenmeister]

I wouldn’t buy anything that’s been painted or coated or fixed.

It's not painted or coated or fixed. It's a clean California car with no underside corrosion. The rust in the hatch has nothing to do with road salt, it is because of leaks as described by @OwnerCS. This is a common and thoroughly discussed issue.

Back to my original question: I'm not interested in replacing the hatch. Can it be fixed by a body shop? Or should I pass on the car?

 

[OwnerCS]

It's not painted or coated or fixed. It's a clean California car with no underside corrosion. The rust in the hatch has nothing to do with road salt, it is because of leaks as described by @OwnerCS. This is a common and thoroughly discussed issue.

Back to my original question: I'm not interested in replacing the hatch. Can it be fixed by a body shop? Or should I pass on the car?

I could get it fixed. It would take some cutting and welding in a new area. I have a buddy who can do it.

 

[efjayatee]

Yes it can be fixed by a shop either by cutting the rust portion off and rewelding a new piece section or bondo after treated.
Just ask for quotes from an auto body shop in your area. Depending where you are, prices will varies from states to states. In CA bay area that might be a $1500

 

[Gartenmeister]

In CA bay area that might be a $1500

Which I suppose is why people swap the whole hatch.

 

[efjayatee]

But finding one to match your color, your patience will be tested. Or repaint the new hatch to match will also be $$

 

[3_puppies]

Back to my original question: I'm not interested in replacing the hatch. Can it be fixed by a body shop? Or should I pass on the car?

you also need to wonder how much more rust in inside that hasn't come thru yet. you currently see a small area but it could easily be 4-5 times that
yes it can be fixed/repaired, if cost isn't an issue
if cost is an issue, that is where the replacement comes into play