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:

    Battery - removal and refitting
    Note: Refer to the precautions at the end of Section 1 before proceeding. Removal 1 The battery is located on the left-hand side of the engine compartment on a bulkhead platform. 2 Disconnect th ...

    Steering angles and wheel alignment
    1 Accurate front wheel alignment is essential to good steering and for even tyre wear. Before considering the steering angles, check that the tyres are correctly inflated, that the roadwheels are ...

    Manual heating and air conditioning system (if equipped)
    Fan speed control Controls the volume of air circulated in the vehicle. Temperature control knob Controls the temperature of the airflow inside the vehicle. Mode Selector Control Control ...