Major body damage - repair

Where serious damage has occurred or large areas need renewal due to neglect, it means that completely new sections or panels will need welding in, and this is best left to professionals. If the damage is due to impact, it will also be necessary to completely check the alignment of the bodyshell structure. Due to the principle of construction, the strength and shape of the whole car can be affected by damage to one part. In such instances the service of a dealer with specialist checking jigs are essential. If a body is left misaligned, it is first of all dangerous, as the car will not handle properly, and secondly uneven stresses will be imposed on the steering, engine and transmission, causing abnormal wear or complete failure. Tyre wear may also be excessive.

    See also:

    Bonnet lock release cable - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 Working inside the vehicle, remove the three retaining screws, and withdraw the lower steering column shroud. 2 Remove the retaining screw, and withdraw the release cable bracket from t ...

    Coolant renewal (Every 24 000 miles or 2 Years)
    Cooling system draining 1 It is preferable to drain the system when the coolant is cold. If it must be drained when hot, release the pressure cap on the thermostat housing (or expansion tank on la ...

    Front suspension strut - removal, overhaul and refitting
    Removal 1 Slacken the roadwheel bolts, raise the front of the vehicle and support it securely on stands (see “Jacking and Vehicle Support”), then remove the roadwheel. 2 Support the underside of ...