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:

    Disc pads - inspection and renewal
    Caution: Refer to the precautions in Section 1. Front disc pads 1 The disc pad friction material can be inspected for wear without removing the roadwheels. Working beneath the vehicle, insert a ...

    Coolant pump/alternator drivebelt tensioner (DOHC models with power steering) - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 Remove the alternator drivebelt. 2 Loosen the alternator lower mounting through-bolt, then remove the alternator upper mounting bolt and swing the alternator away from the engine. 3 Un ...

    Engine mountings - renewal
    1 The engine mountings incorporate hydraulic dampers and must be renewed if excessive engine movement is evident. 2 Working in the engine compartment, unscrew the central nuts securing the engine ...