Peter Smith

Many thanks for your quick and helpful response. Having now looked at more cars I realise these patches are normal. Funny thing is, none look pitted, proving that off-road use is low! I've nearly made my choice of car; as usual, the planned budget is never large enough. Peter

Hi I arrive as a new member but as yet I have not bought my car. Having settled on choosing a Forester, probably between 2 and 4 years old I am about to make a decision. However I am perplexed by the presence, on my preferred car, of a body-coloured raised patch towards the rear corner of each back door. It appears to be a form of protection against scratching the door when opening but curiously does not go around the edge. I would have thought this to have been the most vulnerable point! Can anyone tell me if I am correct, or is this a mystery? Needless to say, the salesman had no idea of their purpose. There is a rear sill plastic protector, factory fitted I believe, stuck on below the tailgate which is somewhat scarred. Is it practical to remove and replace it with a new one or will that be too difficult or damaging to do? Many thanks, Peter