Removal Procedure
1. Disable the SIR system. Refer to
SIR Disabling and Enabling
.
2. Disconnect the negative battery cable. Refer to
Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection
.
Note: Sectioning of the front wheelhouse assembly is not recommended. The front wheelhouse service panel is serviced as a
complete assembly, which includes the upper front strut mounting surface. The upper strut mounting surface is a
dimensionally critical area.
3. Remove the sealers and anti-corrosion materials from the repair area, as necessary. Refer to
Anti-Corrosion Treatment and
Repair
.
Note: Inspect the front of the cowl for damage. If the metal surface is damaged, the cowl panel must be repaired to restore
the structural integrity of the vehicle.
4. Repair as much of the damage as possible.
5. Locate, mark, and drill out all factory welds
(1). Note the number and location of welds for installation of the service assembly.
6. Remove the front wheelhouse from the vehicle.
Installation Procedure
Note: If the location of the original plug weld holes cannot be determined, or if structural weld-thru adhesive is present,
space the plug weld holes every 40
mm (1
in).
1. Drill 8
mm (5/16
in)plug weld holes as necessary on service part, in the locations noted from the original assembly
(1).
2. Clean and prepare the mating surfaces for welding, as necessary.
3. Apply GM-approved weld-thru coating or equivalent to all mating surfaces. Refer to
Anti-Corrosion Treatment and Repair
.
© 2011 General Motors. All rights reserved.
Collision Repair
BODY REPAIR
0-3
Front Wheelhouse Front Panel Replacement
BACK TO CHAPTER INDEX
TO MODEL INDEX
CHEVROLET SONIC 2012 BODY REPAIR MANUAL
