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:

    Rear roadspring (Saloon and Estate models) - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 Raise the rear of the car and support it on stands (see “Jacking and Vehicle Support”). Remove the roadwheel. 2 Support the suspension lower arm by placing a jack beneath the spring sea ...

    Rear disc splash shield - removal and refitting
    Note: A suitable puller will be required to remove the drive flange, and a new rear hub nut must be used on reassembly. Caution: Refer to the precautions in Section 1. Removal 1 Loosen the rear ...

    Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 The ECT sensor is screwed into the inlet manifold. 2 Disconnect the battery negative lead. 3 Partially drain the cooling system as described in Chapter 1. 4 Disconnect the sensor wirin ...