2021-2024 Polestar 2 Rocker Panel Molding: Damage, Replacement, and Cost

Symptoms of a Damaged Rocker Panel Molding

Failure of the Polestar 2's rocker panel molding is almost always the result of physical damage rather than a manufacturing defect. There are no recalls or widespread factory-related issues with this part.

• Visible Damage: The most obvious symptom is visible cracking, scuffing, or gouging. This is typically caused by impacts with curbs, speed bumps, or large road debris.
• Loose or Detached Molding: The molding is held on by a series of clips and screws. An impact can break these mounting points, causing the panel to become loose. You may notice a visible gap between the molding and the car's body.
• Rattling or Tapping Noises: A loose rocker panel molding may vibrate or flap at higher speeds, creating a tapping or rattling sound that is audible inside the cabin. One owner reported hearing a strange tapping noise on the highway, only to find the trim piece was hanging off.

Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls

As of mid-2024, there are no specific recalls, Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs), or common known issues related to the rocker panel moldings on the 2021-2024 Polestar 2. Searches of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database and automotive service bulletins show recalls for software, battery modules, and suspension components, but none for exterior body trim like the rocker panels. This indicates that the part is generally durable and failures are isolated incidents of physical damage.

Buying a Used 2021-2024 Polestar 2 Rocker Panel Molding

Since damage is the primary reason for replacement, buying a used OEM molding is a cost-effective solution. Aftermarket options for this specific part are not readily available in the US market, making used OEM the best alternative to expensive new parts.

What to Check Before You Buy:

• Inspect All Mounting Points: This is the most critical check. Carefully examine the backside of the molding. Ensure all plastic tabs, clip slots, and screw holes are intact and not cracked. A panel with broken tabs will not sit flush against the vehicle and may come loose.
• Check for Cracks and Stress Marks: Look for any cracks, especially around the edges or screw holes. Flex the part slightly (if possible) to reveal hidden stress marks, which appear as white or discolored lines in the plastic. These indicate the part has been stressed and may fail in the future.
• Examine the Finish: The lower rocker panels on the Polestar 2 typically have a textured, unpainted black finish. Check for deep gouges, heavy scuffs, or discoloration from chemicals or sun exposure. Minor scuffs can often be cleaned or restored, but deep damage is permanent.
• Verify Part Numbers: If possible, match the part number to your old part. An eBay listing for a right-side molding bracket set from a 2021 model showed part numbers 32216387 and 32216385. A used right side skirt from a 2022 model showed part number 31672590. Always confirm with the seller that the part is for the correct side (driver or passenger) of the vehicle.

Cost Comparison for Polestar 2 Rocker Panel Molding

Repair costs for Polestar vehicles can be high due to their premium branding and the specialized nature of EV components. However, replacing a bolt-on molding is much cheaper than structural bodywork.

Replacement Difficulty: 2 out of 5

Replacing the rocker panel molding on a Polestar 2 is a straightforward DIY project for someone with basic tools and patience. It does not require any specialized skills like welding, as it is a plastic cover, not a structural panel. The main challenge is carefully releasing the plastic clips without breaking them.

Estimated Time: 1-1.5 hours

Tools Needed:

• T30 Torx driver
• 8mm socket wrench
• Plastic trim removal tool kit (pry tools)

Step-by-Step Replacement Guide

This procedure is based on owner experiences shared on forums.

1. Rear Fender Well Connection: Start at the rear wheel. Locate and remove the 8mm bolt that secures the back end of the rocker molding to the fender well area.
2. Underside Screws: Look underneath the vehicle. You will find several T30 Torx screws holding the bottom edge of the molding in place. Remove all of these screws.
3. Release Underside Clips: With the screws out, gently pull the bottom edge of the molding downwards. This will unclip large white clips that secure the molding to the underbody of the car. Work your way from one end to the other.
4. Front Fender Connection: Move to the front of the molding, near the front wheel. Use a plastic pry tool (a fork-style tool works well) to carefully pop the front section of the skirt away from the body. This section is held by two small orange clips. Be gentle to avoid breaking the clips or the molding.
5. Remove the Molding: Once all screws and clips are released, the molding should come off the vehicle.
6. Installation: Installation is the reverse of removal. Start by aligning the new panel and engaging the main body clips. It's often easiest to hang the panel on the upper clips first. Then, secure the front orange clips, re-install all T30 Torx screws on the underside, and finally, re-install the 8mm bolt in the rear fender well. Ensure the panel is flush and secure before finishing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)