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 pump - testing
    1 If the fuel pump is functioning, it should be possible to hear it “buzzing” by listening under the rear of the vehicle when the ignition is switched on. Unless the engine is started, the fuel pu ...

    Engine - refitting (manual gearbox in vehicle)
    1 Reverse the procedure described in paragraphs 1 to 40, Section 5, noting the following points. 2 Before attempting to refit the engine, check that the clutch friction disc is centralised. 3 Che ...

    Front hub carrier - removal and refitting
    Note: A balljoint separator tool will be required for this operation. Removal 1 Loosen the relevant front roadwheel nuts, apply the handbrake, jack up the front of the vehicle and support on axle ...