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:

    Auxiliary warning system components - removal and refitting
    General 1 This system monitors the fluid levels and front brake pads for excessive wear. In the event of a fluid level dropping below the specified level, or the brake pads wearing down to the mi ...

    Automatic transmission operation (if equipped)
    Brake-shift interlock This vehicle is equipped with a brake-shift interlock feature that prevents the gearshift lever from being moved from P (Park) unless the brake pedal is depressed. If you can ...

    Engine - removal leaving automatic transmission in vehicle
    Note: A suitable hoist and lifting tackle will be required for this operation. 1 Proceed as described in Section 8, paragraphs 1 to 15 inclusive. Additionally, if applicable disconnect the kickdow ...