Hi everyone, proud new owner of a 2010 Silver E350 4Matic Sedan here. I purchased the car with a 1/2 inch puncture on the trunk deck lid near the rear license plate bracket, enlarged bottom license bracket holes on the trunk deck lid due to makeshift riveting of the license plate bracket, and some deep scratches underneath the license plate bracket on the trunk deck lid.

Would I be better off getting a brand new trunk deck lid and getting it put on? I am not sure how difficult/cost effective it would be to fix. The estimate I received from 1 shop to get it fixed (not replaced) is about $1,500.

Thanks!

What, no duct tape around the house? I would not spend $1,500 to fix that and replacing the trunk lid will certainly be higher than that. Doesn't the metal LP mounting plate cover 100% of this?

If the plate doesn't cover it, I would expect you could get a frame for around the plate to cover it. Not of fan of those frames myself, but get something 'classy' to cover the hole (after you find something to fill it with).

I'd buy some high quality silicon and seal it up. I think as mentioned a frame or the plate itself will cover it. Worse case is body filler and color matched paint.

what they said , tape or silicon is even better , plus it gets covered by license plate anyways so cant see it at all.

i have replaced a trunk lid on my w212 , paid 800 from car part , like 2 years ago, came with the spoiler too , same color. but came off a e350 4 matic (also had to remove these emblems lol)
but in your case , no need to be worried. plenty options to cover it up.
keep being a proud owner )

not sure where you are but down here, rego plates are available in different sizes. long (euro plates), rectangular, square big and small etc. i would get a new plate that would cover the holes. (maybe a great opportunity to get that personalized plates you always wanted)

but first things first, ill makes sure to cover that up with something to prevent moisture and rust.

Nothing that JB Weld can't fix.

Thank you all for all the replies. The trunk deck lid is aluminum, which makes it tricky. I may seal up the hole and get either a larger plate frame or a wider plate (if available).