General description

The body is of welded steel construction available in 3 or 5-door Hatchback, 3 or 5- door Estate, soft-top Cabriolet, or Van configurations.

The body is of monocoque construction and is of energy-absorbing design.

Rust and corrosion protection is applied to all new vehicles and includes zinc phosphate dipping and wax injection of box sections and door interiors.

All body panels are welded, including the front wings, so it is recommended that major body damage repairs are left to your dealer.

    See also:

    Headlamps - alignment
    1 It is recommended that the headlamp alignment is carried out by a Ford dealer using specialist beam setting equipment. However, in an emergency the following procedure will provide an acceptable ...

    Load apportioning valve (P100 models) - adjustment
    Models before mid-April 1989 1 The vehicle must be unladen, at normal kerb weight (a full tank of petrol, but no driver or load). 2 With the vehicle standing on its roadwheels, remove the spring ...

    Suspension and steering check (Every 6000 miles or 6 months)
    Front suspension and steering check 1 Raise the front of the vehicle, and securely support it on axle stands (see “Jacking and Vehicle Support”). 2 Visually inspect the balljoint dust covers and ...