tracyk

All I know for certain is that these cracks were not here as of November and they're not deep enough to get my fingernail into. Otherwise, I'm clueless as to cause, potential serious problem, and/or whether this looks like something that needs to be addressed stat or "monitored" til springtime (ie reasonable weather conditions). Since Nov. (When I know they weren't there), I've replaced transm mount, took two 500 mi roadtrips, and have been using 4wd off and on (should any of these even matter). Rear passenger door btw. No accidents, no off-roading, no one else driving it.
Any thoughts/suggestions appreciated. Thanks

wiggles

Looks like the paint just cracked (may have had some bondo that cracked) I would not be to concerned with it.

Turbo X_J

What's the history? Could it be a shoddy repair coming unglued?

Larry's XJ

I bet a buck on this too. Even just looking at pics seems to be other defects.

CCKen

It does look like Bondo.

salad

This is in front of the rear weel, right? I spent some time doing the same repair on my Heep. The rocker is actually supposed to run straight back under the flare, and the quarter panel stop above. Someone has filled in that gap and body flex has cracked the Bondo.

tracyk

It's only been in my care since May. PO (pseudo-dealer middle man type) did not mention any body work was required and/or done. I know: shocker. Carfax hadnt revealed any collisions.

Well, disappointment aside, shall I presume I need a "pro's" inspection to determine if it's potential structure prob vs aesthetic irritation? ...trying to keep OCD in check here but also trying to avoid hair-on-fire trip to body shop in next few weeks.
As always, thanks much for the input.

tracyk

...and yep, Salad, right side back door and flare pictured.

djb383

I believe this is what it looked like originally.......the original horizontal gap runs under the flare.

salad

Yep. Both sides on my XJ had rust holes form there. It's not a big issue, it'll probably rust out again before you have to worry about structural issues.

djb383

One of the benefits of living in a desert....we don't even know how to spell ruhst....much less know what it is.

Orlo

You have 3 choices:

1. Run as fast as you can to an auto body shop where they will be more than happy to spend their time to give you an estimate for their services. Be prepared, they don't do charity.

2. Learn to do body work because if there are any other places on your rig that look anything like that butcher job repair, you're going to need to address it to keep your OCD in check.

3. Leave it be and make a personal journey to learn to live with the visual imperfections that come with an elderly vehicle.

cruiser54

Yup. Gotta love it, eh?

tracyk

Hey cool, thanks for the info (and, of course, patience with a dumb question).

Oh and thumbs up on the passive-aggressive troll Orlo. I'm supremely flattered that you took the time to offer THREE colorful choices, despite none of them actually addressing my concern. But chin up fella, A+ for participation and I'll be cheering on your blossoming social skills from the sidelines buddy! hugs!

CCKen

Orlo can be cheeky at times, but I like it. See the addition to my signature...

Hey Orlo, what's it like getting a gentle tongue lashing in front of the entire forum. LOL