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:

    Exhaust gas oxygen (HEGO) sensor (2.0 litre DOHC/1.6 & 1.8 litre (R6A type) CVH) - removal and refitting
    Note: Do not touch the tip of the HEGO sensor as this will drastically shorten its service life. Note: A new sealing ring should be used on refitting. Removal 1 Ensure that the engine and the ex ...

    Bosch K-Jetronic and KE-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection systems
    The fuel system comprises a centrally mounted fuel tank, electrically-operated fuel pump and Bosch K-Jetronic or KE-Jetronic continuous injection system according to model. The system is used in c ...

    Front wheel bearings - renewal
    1 Remove the hub carrier. 2 Reverse the roadwheel nuts and screw them fully onto the studs to protect the threads, then mount the hub carrier assembly in a vice as shown (see illustration). 6.2 ...