Is the car door replaced entirely or just the exterior?
3 Answers
Generally, only the exterior is replaced. Below is a detailed introduction about car doors: 1. Introduction: The car door provides access for the driver and passengers, isolates external interference, mitigates side impacts to some extent, and protects occupants. The aesthetics of the car are also related to the design of the doors. The quality of a car door is mainly reflected in its anti-collision performance, sealing performance, ease of opening and closing, and other functional indicators. Anti-collision performance is particularly important because, during a side impact, the buffer distance is very short, making it easy to injure occupants inside the vehicle. 2. Inspection: When inspecting a new car's doors, first observe whether there are fine ripples on the door frame. Then check the A-pillar, B-pillar, and C-pillar for any issues. Also, inspect the edges of the door frame for rust, as this area is prone to problems. Many people accidentally hit obstacles around the car when opening the door, which can cause rust on the painted surface of the edges.
As a seasoned driver with years of experience, I've dealt with door replacement issues. Typically, door replacement involves changing both the inner and outer parts, swapping out the entire door unit including the shell and internal components. The reason is that a car door isn't just sheet metal—it contains locking mechanisms, window regulator tracks, wiring, and safety features. After an accident, replacing only the exterior might overlook internal damage, leading to window malfunctions or worsening rust issues. I've personally seen a friend try to save money by only replacing the outer shell, only to end up with increased wind noise months later and doubled repair costs. Safety comes first; full door replacement ensures compliance with original vehicle standards and reduces future hassles. On average, costs vary by model—ordinary cars can be fixed for two to three thousand, while luxury vehicles cost more but it's worth it. Avoiding door edge collisions in daily use can extend their lifespan.
In our repair shop, door replacement is typically done as a complete unit, both interior and exterior. Doors are designed as integrated structures with internal impact beams and sensors—replacing only the outer shell compromises integrity and increases risks. Accident assessment is crucial: minor scratches can be fixed with paint, but severe impacts or rust require full door replacement. Cost-wise, full-door replacement is more efficient, starting at 1,000–2,000 RMB for parts and labor, proving more economical and time-saving than partial repairs. Technically, internal components like window regulators risk misalignment if replaced individually, whereas full-unit swaps ensure tight seals to prevent leaks. For common customer queries, provide clear explanations and always recommend professional inspections without hesitation.