OEM Linking Pin: Nissan Maxima/Sentra Outer Quarter Panel - UPDATE

We were recently asked: "On a 2017 Nissan Maxima, can I section the outer quarter panel in an area other than what is shown in the body repair manual (BRM)?" To find out the answer, we reached out to our contacts at Nissan.

Per our contact at Nissan, "If it's just the skin metal (outer quarter panel), any location should be fine. The BRM line is chosen as the easiest to hide during repair (also the backglass won't require removal). Our service body side metal is generally cut in sections, so as long as the shop gets a large enough section to cover all of the skin they cut out, it's ok. Only the skin (outer quarter panel) can be cut there (in a location other than what is shown in the BRM), none of the underlying body structure can be cut."

A similar question was asked pertaining to a 2022 Nissan Sentra. We reached out to Nissan for additional clarification.

Per our contact at Nissan: "The same process for the Maxima would apply to the Sentra."

What This Does NOT Mean

This does NOT mean that the same can be applied to other areas of these vehicles or any other Nissan vehicle.

What This Means

This means the outer quarter panel on the 2016-2023 Nissan Maxima (A36) and 2020-2025 Nissan Sentra (B18) can be sectioned in areas other than what is shown in the BRM. It also means that before making a sectioning joint on the outer quarter panel, make sure that the service part covers the area being sectioned.

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