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:

    Automatic transmission fluid level check (Every 12 000 miles or 12 months)
    1 The automatic transmission fluid level must be checked when the engine and transmission are at normal operating temperature; preferably after a short journey. 2 Park the car on level ground, the ...

    Crankshaft front oil seal - renewal
    Note: A new gasket will be required for refitting if the old seal housing is removed during this procedure. 1 Remove the timing belt and the crankshaft sprocket. 2 If an oil seal removal tool is ...

    Throttle housing - removal and refitting
    Note: During manufacture the throttle plate is adjusted so that it is fractionally open, to avoid the possibility of it jamming shut, and it must not be repositioned. Idle speed adjustment is prov ...