Hi just wondering if anyone has any experience of using pattern body panels for mk1 fabia. Discovered what I though was surface rust on base of both wings had gone right through. I'm hoping to get some 2nd hand ones in rightcolour as they ate juat bolt on but if not may end up needing to buy new. Can see on fleabay they are about 35 each but would then need painting etc. Car is metallic green. My experience of pattern parts has not been great as they never seem to fit. I guess the alternative would be to get a couple original in the wrong colour and get them painted etc but know it's a common area to rust, there was half a kilo of silt stuck behind the arch liner. Not sure how much Skoda charge for original parts or if they are still available. 😁

The muck and sludge from the scuttle panel drains ends up trapped behind the bottom of the wings. That's what rots them out. Mine are starting to go. Not had experience of fitting any panels on it yet though.

Impossible to remove the wings without damaging them due to the bonding sealer used at the hinge pillars.

Better to use new pattern wings and dry fit them so they can be fettled then get it painted once complete.