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While changing my shift linkage I noticed a massive 6" hole appeared in my driver's side rocker panel over the winter, right behind the wheel well.

What's the best way to fix that? Replacement rocker panel? Sheet metal? Fiberglass repair kit?

I want whatever I do to last, because I think I've got about 5 years left on this thing.

Are the rocker panels bolted on, or welded to the frame? If I get a replacement, do I just cut the old one off with an angle grinder, and weld the new one on?

I had a similar problem on the passenger side. The floor was rotten and needed to be cut out. I used a zip wheel on my angle grinder and cut out around the floor support. Once all the infected sheet metal was removed, I cut a piece of sheet metal to cover the area and used a mig welder to repair it.

The fix is a bandaid at best...but will likely last until the rest of the car rots apart.

Good luck.

Check your drivers side inner fender wall behind the strut while your at it...These cars are prone to rotting out there it seems as well. All three of mine have flaking rust holes behind the strut.