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:

    Starter motor - testing in the vehicle
    1 If the starter motor fails to operate first check the condition of the battery. 2 Check the security and condition of all relevant wiring. Solenoid check 3 Disconnect the battery negative lead ...

    Throttle valve control motor (1.6 and 1.8 litre (R6A type) CVH) - removal and refitting
    1.6 litre 1 Disconnect the battery negative lead. 2 Remove the air cleaner. 3 Disconnect the wiring connectors from the throttle valve control motor, and the throttle position sensor, pulling on ...

    Engine - refitting (automatic transmission in vehicle)
    1 Reverse the procedure described in Section 10, noting the following points: 2 Check that the engine adapter plate is correctly positioned on its locating dowels. 3 As the torque converter is onl ...