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:

    Steering intermediate shaft and flexible coupling - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 Apply the handbrake, jack up the front of the vehicle and support on axle stands. 2 Working in the engine compartment, unscrew the bolt securing the intermediate shaft to the inner colu ...

    General Repair Procedures
    Whenever servicing, repair or overhaul work is carried out on the car or its components, it is necessary to observe the following procedures and instructions. This will assist in carrying out the ...

    Rear parcel shelf - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 Open the tailgate fully and disengage the parcel shelf lifting strap loops from the tailgate retaining knobs. 2 Lift out the parcel shelf pivot pins from their notches in the support br ...