This talk of an uncut loom makes it sound like there is a connector somewhere forward of the tailgate, is that actually the case?

 

When I ran the cables for my reversing camera through the bellows and over the headlining I did not see any sign of one but then I'm not sure that the connectors within the tailgate could have been passed through the bellows either.

 

If there is a connector then finding another tailgate, spraying it if a different colour and fitting it becomes a reasonable proposition.

 

The argument for DIY'ing the rust repair is that a spray shop will want to fit a new panel knowing that they cannot guarantee a rust free for life repair.

My understanding is there’s a connection somewhere around the inner rear near side wheel arch panelling, never looked but that’s where the length of cable would indicate it to be 

my biggest concern is that the rust is pretty severe around the number plate light screw fixings and by trying to remove the light I’m going to end up with no fixing locations or a damaged light if it’s rusted in 

I can ( but can’t justify, if you know what I mean ) stretch to replacing the car but 

 

I prefer diesel but no longer do the requisite mileage to facilitate the dpf functions on later cars

the Octavia suits my needs and I’ve lost most of the depreciation already 

I’ve read a few horror stories about later cars with rusty tail gates already ( 16 plates ffs ) not just Octavia either as I’ve been considering a late Fabia petrol estate ( pre road tax increases so early 17 plate but the rust concerns me )

 

maybe it’s time to look at a different manufacturer 

 

Pretty sure the female fixings are square section flanged plastic inserts.

 

Just whip them out and see whats what, sometimes time is better invested doing and seeing than typing and pondering.

JR

 

fully appreciate all that you’ve written and your encouragement 

once I’ve got that years mot done and dusted ( assuming there’s no major negatives arising from the appraisal ) I fully intend to remove the light and boot release and have a good look 

as you say the apprehension of tackling something out of ones comfort zone often over complicates the task in hand