Side Panel Brace Replacement--Uh Oh??????

Hey there! I'm new. But have been working on my tacoma since I got her.

I just purchased a new side panel brace when i saw the wobbly rear fender, but when i went to install the new brace, i saw that the holes in the body were....slotted(?) I'm wondering how did this happen, and also is there a way to still install the brace and work around the slots that should be holes?

Thank you much!

 

If the bolts fit they'll be fine. Those fasteners aren't seeing shitloads of lateral force so they aren't going to shift unless you're already in bedside smashing territory - just snug them appropriately.

If the bolts don't fit, position the brace, mark the holes in the brace, and use a chainsaw file or something to clear the bolts.