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:

    Exterior lamps - removal and refitting
    Headlamp Removal 1 On pre-1986 models, remove the radiator grille as described in Chapter 11. 2 Working in the engine compartment, disconnect the headlamp wiring multi-plug and remove the sidela ...

    Boot lid lock (Saloon models) - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 With the boot lid raised, remove the lock barrel retaining clip. 2 Where applicable, disconnect the operating lever from the central locking solenoid/motor, then withdraw the lock barre ...

    Fuel pump - removal and refitting
    Note: Refer to the precautions at the end of Section 1 before proceeding. Removal 1 The fuel pump is bolted to the underside of the car just to the rear of the fuel tank. For access raise and sup ...