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:

    Heater controls - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 Disconnect the battery negative lead. 2 Remove the securing screws and unclip the lower and upper steering column shrouds. 3 Remove the four securing screws and withdraw the instrument ...

    Steering intermediate shaft and flexible coupling - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 Apply the handbrake, jack up the front of the vehicle and support on axle stands. 2 Working in the engine compartment, unscrew the bolt securing the intermediate shaft to the inner colu ...

    Instrument Cluster
    Warning lights and chimes Warning lights and gauges can alert you to a vehicle condition that may become serious enough to cause expensive repairs. A warning light may illuminate when a problem ...