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:

    Heater controls - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 Disconnect the battery negative lead. 2 Remove the securing screws and unclip the lower and upper steering column shrouds. 3 Remove the four securing screws and withdraw the instrument ...

    Rear suspension and axle assembly (P100 models) - removal and refitting
    Note: All self-locking nuts and spring washers must be renewed on reassembly. Removal 1 Chock the front wheels, jack up the rear of the vehicle and support on axle stands placed under the side me ...

    Facia panel switches - removal and refitting
    1 Disconnect the battery negative lead. Rocker switches and push button switches 2 Using a thin-bladed screwdriver, carefully prise the switch from the facia panel. 3 Disconnect the wiring plug a ...