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:

    Brake disc - examination, removal and refitting
    Note: From 1987, thicker brake discs were fitted. If the later discs are fitted to earlier models, longer wheel studs must be fitted to accommodate the increased thickness. Consult a dealer for fu ...

    Starter motor brushes - renewal
    1 Starter motor brush renewal is a relatively difficult procedure, requiring skill in the use of a soldering iron. It should also be borne in mind that if the starter motor has been in service lon ...

    Steering and suspension security check (Every 12 000 miles (20 000 km) or 12 months)
    1 Check the shock absorbers by bouncing the vehicle up and down at each corner in turn. When released, it should come to rest within one complete oscillation. Continued movement, or squeaking and ...