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:

    Front anti-roll bar - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 The anti-roll bar is used in conjunction with the forged type suspension lower arm. 2 Jack up the front of the car and support it on stands (see “Jacking and Vehicle Support”). 3 Where ...

    Tailgate lock (Hatchback and Estate models) - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 Open the tailgate and prise out the trim panel using a wide-bladed screwdriver (see illustration). 12.1 Tailgate trim panel fixings - Hatchback and Estate models 2 Remove the lock bar ...

    Air Charge Temperature (ACT) sensor - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 The ACT sensor is screwed into the CFI unit. 2 Disconnect the battery negative lead. 3 Remove the air cleaner assembly. 4 Disconnect the ACT sensor wiring plug (see illustration). 1 ...