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:

    Hydraulic unit (ABS) - removal and refitting
    Note: A new gasket must be used between the hydraulic unit and the bulkhead on refitting. Caution: Refer to the precautions in Section 1. Removal 1 Disconnect the battery negative lead. 2 Depre ...

    Integral heated rear window/radio aerial amplifier - removal and refitting
    1 Disconnect the battery negative lead. Saloon models 2 Remove both rear seat side cushions. 3 Remove the securing screws and withdraw the rear parcel shelf. 4 Make a note of the wiring connectio ...

    Engine - removal leaving manual gearbox in vehicle
    Warning: Vehicles equipped with air conditioning: Components of the air conditioning system may obstruct work being undertaken on the engine and it is not always possible to unbolt and move them ...