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:

    Crankshaft front oil seal - renewal
    Note: A new gasket will be required for refitting if the old seal housing is removed during this procedure. 1 Remove the timing belt and the crankshaft sprocket. 2 If an oil seal removal tool is ...

    Instrument panel components - removal and refitting
    Panel illumination and warning lamp bulbs Removal 1 Remove the instrument panel as described in Section 9. 2 Turn the bulbholders anti-clockwise and remove them from the rear of the instrument ...

    Tailgate wiper motor - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 Disconnect the battery and remove the wiper arm/blade assembly. 2 Remove the pivot shaft nut, spacer and outer seals. 3 Open the tailgate and remove the trim panel (refer to Chapter 11 ...