Sectioning and Partial Part Replacement: 2018 Volkswagen Atlas

One of the top technical inquiries received at Ask I-CAR is, “Is there a sectioning or partial replacement procedure available?” To help answer this question, RTS has an OEM Partial Part Replacement Search available. Here you will find information on if these procedures are available on a specific vehicle. Let’s take a closer look at the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas.

The full OEM Partial Part Replacement Search page for the 2018 Atlas, can be viewed on the I-CAR website. This will give you a good understanding on general areas for sectioning or partial replacement. I-CAR does not have permission to show exact locations for sectioning or the procedure itself. However, Volkswagen has a paid subscription website with collision repair information.

The Volkswagen Atlas has the option of replacing the front lower rail at factory seams, or sectioning them as well. The front upper rail has multiple locations in which it can be sectioned or replaced at factory seams. However, there is only a single location where the rear rail can be sectioned. For the upper rail, Volkswagen calls for adhesive around the entire seam of the replacement part, even if there was no adhesive in the area before. The part is then GMA plug welded onto the vehicle.

Although the outer uniside has multiple sectioning locations, the reinforcement only has one sectioning location. The inner uniside though, has no sectioning procedures. Some areas of the quarter panel can be MIG brazed or gas-shielded arc stitch welded, along with using adhesive.

Check out www.erwin.vw.com to view the Atlas body repair manual.

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