LR
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Chassis & bodyMedium severity

Rotten steel seat box

Will get worse if left.

Symptoms

Rust holes along the bottom of the seat box, seat belt mounts going soft, water in the cabin.

Likely cause

Water collects under mats and in the seat box base, which is steel on most vehicles.

Suggested fixes

Listed roughly in the order most owners try them.

  1. 1

    Weld in repair sections

    Repair panels are available for the seat box base and sides. Make sure seat belt mounting points are restored to full strength.

    Difficulty:
    Experienced DIY
    Cost:
    ££ (About £50 to £300)
  2. 2

    Fit a new seat box

    If the corrosion is widespread a complete galvanised seat box is the better long-term option.

    Difficulty:
    Experienced DIY
    Cost:
    £££ (Over about £300)
  3. 3

    Seal and treat

    Lift the mats regularly, clear drain holes and treat bare metal with wax or rust inhibitor to slow further rot.

    Difficulty:
    Easy DIY
    Cost:
    £ (Under about £50 in parts)

This is general guidance gathered from owner experience and workshop practice, not a substitute for a workshop manual or a qualified mechanic. Costs are rough parts-only guides. Brakes, steering and suspension work affects safety, so if in doubt have it checked professionally.

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