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:

    Pistons and connecting rods - removal and refitting
    1.8 litre (R2A type) Removal 1 With the engine removed from the vehicle, remove the sump and the cylinder head. 2 Check the big-end caps for identification marks and if necessary use a centre-pun ...

    Tailboard (P100 models) - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 Lower the tailboard to the open position. 2 Detach the rear lamp wiring cover on one side of the vehicle by removing the two securing screws (see illustration). 24.2 Rear lamp wiring ...

    Central door locking components - operation, removal and refitting
    Note: If a central locking solenoid or motor is to be renewed due to jamming or overheating, the central locking relay must be renewed at the same time even if it is believed to be working correct ...