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:

    Fuel injectors - removal and refitting
    Note: Refer to the precautions at the end of Section 1 before proceeding. New injector seals will be required on refitting. Removal 1 Disconnect the battery negative lead. 2 Depressurise the fuel ...

    Heater matrix - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 With the heater removed from the vehicle as previously described, extract the two securing screws and slide the matrix out of the heater casing. 2 If further dismantling is necessary, c ...

    Spark plugs and HT leads - removal, inspection and refitting
    Note: The correct functioning of the spark plugs is vital for the correct running and efficiency of the engine. It is essential that the plugs fitted are appropriate for the engine, and the suitabl ...