The sills and rear panels are part of the MGF and MG TF's pressed-steel monocoque, and because the bodyshell carries the car's structural loads, the condition of these panels matters for strength and safety as well as appearance. This section covers the structural sill panels, the colour-coded plastic sill trims that cover them, and the rear body panels.
Structural Sills
The sills run along the base of the bodyshell beneath each door and form a key part of the car's structural integrity, they also carry the recommended jacking and lifting points. Sill corrosion is one of the most important areas to check on any MGF or TF, particularly along the lower edges and at the front and rear closing panels where moisture and road salt collect. Damage is also commonly caused by jacking the car in the wrong place, which can crush the sill seam. Repair and replacement panels allow corroded or damaged sills to be cut out and renewed correctly.
Sill Trims & Finishers
Over the structural sill, the MGF and TF carry handed, colour-coded plastic sill trims (side skirts) that finish the lower body line and are retained by clips and fixings to the body. These trims are commonly damaged by kerbing, jacking, and clip failure, and the fixing kits and clips are catalogued so a loose or missing trim can be refitted securely.
Rear Panels
The rear body panels close the back of the monocoque and provide the mounting and location for the rear bodywork. Corrosion, accident damage, and previous poor repairs are the usual reasons for renewal, and correct panels ensure the rear of the car lines up properly with the boot, lights, and bumper.
The MGOC Spares range covers structural sill repair and replacement panels, colour-coded sill trims, rear body panels, and the clips, fixings, and fittings needed to fit them.