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:

    Engine/transmission - reconnection and installation
    1 This is a direct reversal of removal and separation from the transmission. Take care not to damage the radiator or front wings during installation. Reconnection 2 Reconnection of the engine and ...

    Interior trim panels - removal and refitting
    Rear quarter trim panel Removal 1 Unbolt the seat belt from its floor mounting. 2 Pass the belt buckle slide through the panel aperture. 3 Pull the seat cushion and backrest forward. 4 Extract t ...

    Cylinder head - removal and refitting
    Removal Note: On HCS engines, cylinder head bolts may be used a total of three times (including initial fit) and must be suitably marked to indicate each removal operation. A new cylinder head ga ...