General description

The body is of welded steel construction available in 3 or 5-door Hatchback, 3 or 5- door Estate, soft-top Cabriolet, or Van configurations.

The body is of monocoque construction and is of energy-absorbing design.

Rust and corrosion protection is applied to all new vehicles and includes zinc phosphate dipping and wax injection of box sections and door interiors.

All body panels are welded, including the front wings, so it is recommended that major body damage repairs are left to your dealer.

    See also:

    Radiator - removal, inspection and refitting
    All models except RS Turbo Pre-1986 models Removal 1 Drain the cooling system as described in Chapter 1. 2 Disconnect the battery negative terminal. 3 Release the retaining clips and disconnect ...

    Major operations possible with the engine in the car
    The following work can be carried out without having to remove the engine: a) Timing belt - renewal. b) Camshaft oil seal - renewal. c) Camshaft - removal and refitting. d) Cylinder head - remova ...

    Brake fluid pipes and hoses - removal and refitting
    Caution: Refer to the precautions in Section 1. Removal 1 To remove a flexible hose, always free it from any mounting bracket(s) first by prising out the U-shaped retaining clip, and then using ...