Understanding Dog Leg Repairs and Sectioning: Why OEM Procedures Matter

When it comes to modern auto body repair, not all damage is created equal—and neither are the repair methods. One of the more complex areas to repair is the dog leg—the lower portion of the rear quarter panel, located just behind the rear door and above the rocker panel. At Solon Collision in Aurora, OH, we frequently repair this area, but always under one condition: we follow OEM procedures to the letter.

What Is a Dog Leg and Why Does It Matter?

The “dog leg” plays a structural and aesthetic role in your vehicle. It's a tight area with complex curves and often part of a larger quarter panel assembly. Because of its position, it's prone to damage in side impacts and parking lot accidents.

Proper repair of this area isn’t just about filling and painting—it often requires precise cutting, welding, or sectioning, and these steps can affect the safety of the entire vehicle if not done correctly.

Dog leg repair has been primed

Sectioning: What It Means and When It’s Allowed

Sectioning is the process of cutting and replacing only a portion of a damaged panel, rather than replacing the entire part. This can save on time and cost—but it can’t be done indiscriminately.

OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) like Honda, Toyota, Ford, and others provide detailed repair procedures, including whether sectioning is allowed, and if so, where and how cuts can be made.

Some key points:

• Some manufacturers allow sectioning in the dog leg.

• Others prohibit it entirely, requiring full panel replacement.

• Improper sectioning can compromise crash safety, airbag timing, and corrosion protection.

Why OEM Procedures Are Non-Negotiable

There’s a reason every major automaker publishes OEM position statements and repair manuals: vehicle structures are carefully engineered, and even small deviations in repair can lead to:

• Improper energy absorption in a collision

• Faulty airbag deployment

• Voided warranties

• Long-term corrosion or structural failure

At Solon Collision, we use OEM-approved software and databases to confirm the correct repair strategy for every make and model. If sectioning is allowed, we follow the exact cut locations, weld types, and corrosion protection steps.

The Solon Collision Approach

When repairing a dog leg:

• We assess whether sectioning is OEM-approved

• We remove nearby trim, windows, and inner panels for access

• We use manufacturer-approved welders, sealants, and corrosion protection

• We ensure a seamless cosmetic finish using premium refinishing products

Trust Solon Collision with Complex Repairs

Dog leg repairs aren’t simple, and they’re not something to trust to “good enough” work. Our technicians are I-CAR trained, and we specialize in following factory repair methods to protect your vehicle’s value, performance, and safety.

📍 Visit us at 260 Lena Drive, Aurora, OH 44202

📞 Call 440-903-1009

💻 Learn more: www.SolonCollision.com