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:

    Ignition timing check - models with contact breaker distributor (Every 6000 miles or 6 months)
    Note: With modern ignition systems the only suitable way to time the ignition accurately is with a stroboscopic timing light. However, for initial setting up purposes (ie after major overhaul, or ...

    Manual gearbox oil level check (Every 12 000 miles (20 000 km) or 12 months)
    1 Place the vehicle over a pit, or raise and support it at front and rear. The vehicle must be level for an accurate check. 2 If the gearbox is hot after a run, allow it to cool for a few minutes. ...

    Cylinder head - removal and refitting (engine removed)
    Note: The cylinder head bolts must always be renewed after slackening, and a new cylinder head gasket and camshaft cover gasket must be used on refitting. If the engine has recently run, the cylin ...