this is a precaution against "gluing" oem side skirts
i am bumping this thread to address some of the original concerns put forth by other members (most recently,
dynames) with regards to "gluing" vs. "drilling" oem side skirts. after 2 years or so, i am of the opinion from personal experience, and that of other members, that it is best to have the oem side skirts attached by drilling them. i believe that although richard at friendly auto body's (7605 Woodbine Ave, Markham) recommendation of "gluing" is well intentioned, stemming from the fear of rust in the corrosion prone mazda3 paint, it is erroneous and subsequently does not hold up over time.
i have had to make 3 separate trips over the last year or so to friendly auto body from mississauga to have the passenger (right side) skirt reattached. the most recent adhesive (see picture below) seems to have resolved issues, but nonetheless it is a waste of time and money to continuously have it addressed. furthermore, richards attitude in each visit has progressively been less and less courteous, deteriorating to the point where it seems that i am inconveniencing him (and it is only him that can deal with the matter, as laoban - owner - will refuse warranty service).
i can understand mistakes and bad advice, but lack of good will, let alone compensation (whether it be a simple apology or even monetary) is something i cannot understand in my frustration (compounded by my numerous visits).
i cannot speak to the quality of friendly auto body's body repair and paint services (from reviews here it seems noteworthy), but in regards to installing side skirts and to an extent other aftermarket/oem accessories,
i cannot recommend richard or friendly auto body given my experiences.
adhesive used from most recent trip in June 2012
the 3rd time the skirt came apart in may 2012, fixed in june 2012
the second time the side skirt came apart in march 2012, pink adhesive used - see may 2012