Rocker panel rot - leak source?

[StartWithFords]

My 2017 Limited EL has the inside out rust on both rocker panels. I do not understand why Ford did not put plugs in those holes. I understand that they put some sort of tape on them. The tape on mine is gone on all the holes. The are too far up to be water drains for the rockers. I had a 98F150 and the same thing happened to it. However, the holes on it had a factory plugs, but they dried out over time and began to leak. Love the vehicle, but talk about disappointment with the construction.

 

[timbits588]

My 2017 Limited EL has the inside out rust on both rocker panels. I do not understand why Ford did not put plugs in those holes. I understand that they put some sort of tape on them. The tape on mine is gone on all the holes. The are too far up to be water drains for the rockers. I had a 98F150 and the same thing happened to it. However, the holes on it had a factory plugs, but they dried out over time and began to leak. Love the vehicle, but talk about disappointment with the construction.

We have the same vehicle, sounds like...and the same issue, unfortunately. Trying to figure out whether I want to cut it out and weld in a patch (that's metal) or try to find a fiberglass option.
With my f-150 it was a well-known and common issue so there were plenty of fiberglass/non-metal options out there.

 

[Trainmaster]

I replaced the rockers on my 08 two years ago. $150 for the panels and $1200 for the body shop to do the work. Also taped over the holes in the inner rockers with rubber tape like the factor did.

 

[TavernWench]

Why would ford have it to where the doors fill with water?!?!
I removed the rubber plugs but since it's an 08 those broke off so wonder if any
downside to not having them plugged.
I'm in Tx so don't have salt issues

 

[timbits588]

I replaced the rockers on my 08 two years ago. $150 for the panels and $1200 for the body shop to do the work. Also taped over the holes in the inner rockers with rubber tape like the factor did.

That's a great price!

 

[BigOleFordFan]

That's a great price!

Last year, my neighbor got a quote on his 2014 rockers for about $1200 total, which included all the parts & labor, and they even plugged the holes with some goopy-looking rubber stuff, so he went for it and was very happy with the results !