4B 1 FIAT PUNTO 1998 176 / 1.G Workshop Manual

Suspension and steering 10*13
the skill required to use It properly, the checking and adjustment of these settings Is best left to a Fiat dealer or similar expert. Most tyre-fitting shops now possess sophisticated checking equipment. 3 For accurate checking, the vehicle must be at the kerb weight specified in Dimensions and weights. 4 Before starting work, check first that the tyre sizes and types are as specified (see Tyre pressures in Weekly checks), then check tyre pressures and tread wear. Also check roadwheel run-out, the condition of the hub bearings, the steering wheel free play and the condition of the front suspension components (Steering and suspension check in Chapter 1A or
1B).
Correct any faults found. 6 Park the vehicle on level ground, with the front roadwheeis in the straight-ahead position. Rock the rear and front ends to settle the suspension. Release the handbrake and roll the vehicle backwards approximately 1 metre, then forwards again, to relieve any stresses in the steering and suspension components. 6 Two methods are available to the home mechanic for checking the front wheel toe setting. One method is to use a gauge to measure the distance between the front and rear inside edges of the roadwheeis. The other method is to use a scuff plate, in which each front wheel is rolled across a movable plate which records any deviation, or scuff, of the tyre from the straight-ahead position as It moves across the plate. Such gauges are available in relatively-inexpensive form from accessory outlets. It Is up to the owner to decide whether the expense is justified, In view of the small amount of use such equipment would normally receive. 7 Prepare the vehicle 8S described in paragraphs 3 to 5 above.
8 If the measurement procedure is being used, carefully measure the distance between the front edges of the roadwheel rims and the rear edges of the rims. Subtract the front measurement from the rear measurement, and check that the result is within the specified range. If not, adjust the toe setting as described in paragraph 10. 9 If scuff plates are to be used, roll the vehicle backwards, check that the roadwheeis are in the straight-ahead position, then roll it across the scuff plates so that each front roadwheel passes squarely over the centre of its respective plate. Note the angle recorded by the scuff plates. To ensure accuracy, repeat the check three times, and take the average of the three readings, if the roadwheeis are running parallel, there will of course be no angle recorded; If a deviation value Is shown on the scuff plates, compare the reading obtained for each wheel with that supplied by the scuff plate manufacturers. If the value recorded is outside Ihe specified tolerance, the toe setting is incorrect, and must be adjusted as follows. Adjustment 10 Apply the handbrake, then jack up the front of the vehicle and support it securely on axle stands (see Jacking and vehicle support). Turn the steering wheel onto full-left lock, and record the number of exposed threads on the right-hand track-rod. Now turn the steering onto full-right lock, and record the number of threads on the left-hand side. If there are the same number of threads visible on both sides, then subsequent adjustment should be made equally on both sides. If there are more threads visible on one side than the other, it will be necessary to compensate for this during adjustment Note: It is important to ensure that, after adjustment, the same number of threads are visible on the end of each track-rod.
11 First clean the track-rod threads; If they are corroded, apply penetrating fluid before starting adjustment. Release the steering gear rubber gaiter outboard clips, then peel back the gaiters and apply a smear of grease, so that both gaiters are free and will not be twisted or strained as their respective track-rods are rotated. 12 Use a straight-edge and a scriber or similar to mark the relationship of each track-rod to the track-rod end. Working on each track-rod end in tum, unscrew its locking nut. 13 Alter the length of the track-rods, bearing In mind the note in paragraph 10, by screwing them into or out of the track-rod ends. Rotate the track-rod using an open-ended spanner fitted to the flats provided. If necessary, counterhold the track-rod end using a second spanner. Shortening the track-rods (screwing them Into their track-rod ends) will reduce toe-in and increase toe-out. 14 When the setting Is correct, hold the track-rods and securely tighten the locking nuts. Check that the balljoints are seated correctly In their sockets, and count the exposed threads on the ends of the track-rods. If the number of threads exposed is not the same on both sides, then the adjustment has not been made equally, and problems will be encountered with tyre scrubbing in turns; also, the steering wheel spokes will no longer be horizontal when the wheels are in the straight-ahead position. 15 When the track-rod lengths are the same, lower the vehicle to the ground and re-check the toe setting; readjust if necessary. When the setting is correct, tighten the locking nuts. Ensure that the steering gear rubber gaiters are seated correctly and are not twisted or strained, then secure them In position with new retaining clips.
10

10*1
Chapter 11
Bodywork and fittings
Contents
Bonnet • removal and refitting 11 Bonnet lock components - removal and refitting 12 Bonnet release cable - removal and refitting 13 Door - removal and refitting 15 Door handle and lock components • removal and refitting 16 Door inner trim panel • removal and refitting 14 Electric window components • removal and refitting 18 Exterior mirror components - removal and refitting 17 Facia - removal and refitting 19 Front bumper • removal and refitting 6
General Information 1 Maintenance - bodywork and underframe 2 Maintenance - upholstery and carpets 3 Major body damage - repair 5 Minor body damage - repair 4 Rear bumper - removal and refitting 7 Seats • removal and refitting 20 Tailgate - removal and refitting 8 Tailgate lock components - removal and refitting 10 Tailgate strut - removal and refitting 9
Degrees of difficulty

Easy, suitable for
novice with littie experience ^
Fairly
easy,
suitable ^ for beginner with ^
some
experience

Fairty difficult,
^
suitable
fcr competent
DIY
mechanic ^
Difficult,
suitable (or
^ experienced DIY »R mechanic ^

Very difficult,
^
suitable
for
expert CHY
or professional ^
Specifications
! Torque wrench settings Nm ibf ft Bonnet-to-hinge botts 8 6 Door hinge-to-body bolts 35 26
1 Genera! information
The bodyshell is composed of pressed-steel sections which are welded together, although some use of structural adhesives is made. In addition, the front wings are bolted i on. ' The bonnet, door and some other panels I vulnerable to corrosion are fabricated from zinc-coated metal. A coating of anti-chip primer, applied prior to paint spraying I provides further protection. Extensive use is made of plastic materials. ' mainly In the Interior, but also in exterior components. The outer sections of the front l and rear bumpers are injection-moulded from
a
synthetic material which is very strong, and yet light. Plastic components such as wheel | arch liners are fitted to the underside of the vehicle, to improve Ihe body's resistance to I corrosion.
2 Maintenance - ^ bodywork and underframe ||
The general condition of a vehicle's bodywork is the one thing that significantly affects its value. Maintenance is easy, but needs to be regular. Neglect, particularly after minor damage, can lead quickly to further deterioration and costly repair bills. It is important also to keep watch on those parts of the vehicle not immediately visible, for instance the underside, inside all the wheel arches, and the lower part of the engine compartment. The basic maintenance routine for the bodywork is washing - preferably with a lot of water, from a hose. This will remove all the loose solids which may have stuck to the vehicle. It is important to flush these off in such a way as to prevent grit from scratching the finish. The wheel arches and underframe need washing in the same way, to remove any
accumulated mud. which will retain moisture and tend to encourage rust. Paradoxically enough, the best time to clean the underframe and wheel arches is in wet weather, when the mud is thoroughly wet and soft. In very wet weather, the underframe is usually cleaned of large accumulations automatically, and this is a good time for inspection. Periodically, except on vehicles with a wax-based underbody protective coating, it is a good idea to have the whole of the underframe of Ihe vehicle steam-cleaned, engine compartment included, so that a thorough inspection can be carried out to see what minor repairs and renovations are necessary. Steam-cleaning is available at many garages, and is necessary for the removal of the accumulation of oily grime, which sometimes is allowed to become thick In certain areas. If steam-cleaning facilities are

11 *2 Bodywork and fittings
on vehicles with wax-based underbody protective coating, or the coating will be removed. Such vehicles should be inspected annually, preferably just prior lo Winter, when the underbody should be washed down, and any damage to the wax coating repaired. Ideally, a completely fresh coat should be applied. It would also be worth considering the use of such wax-based protection for injection into door panels, sills, box sections, etc, as an additional safeguard against rust damage, where such protection Is not provided by the vehicle manufacturer. After washing paintwork, wipe off with a chamois feather to give an unspotted clear finish. A coat of clear protective wax polish wilt give added protection against chemical pollutants in the air. If the paintwork sheen has duiled or oxidised, use a cleaner/polisher combination to restore the brilliance of the shine. This requires a little effort, but such dulling Is usually caused because regular washing has been neglected. Care needs to be taken with metallic paintwork, as special non-abrasive cleaner/polisher is required to avoid damage to the finish, Always check that the door and ventilator opening drain holes and pipes are completely clear, so that water can be drained out. Brightwork should be treated In the same way as paintwork. Windscreens and windows can be kept clear of the smeary film which often appears, by the use of proprietary glass cleaner. Nover use any form of wax or other body or chromium polish on glass.
Maintenance -upholstery and carpets
Mats and carpets should be brushed or vacuum-cleaned regularly, to keep them free of grit. If they are badly stained, remove them from the vehicle for scrubbing or sponging, and make quite sure they are dry before refitting. Seats and interior trim panels can be kept clean by wiping with a damp cloth. If they do become stained (which can be more apparent on light-coloured upholstery), use a little liquid detergent and a soft nail brush lo scour the grime out of the grain of the material. Do not forget to keep the headlining clean in the same way as the upholstery. When using liquid cleaners inside the vehicle, do not over-wet the surfaces being cleaned. Excessive damp could get Into the seams and padded interior, causing stains, offensive odours or even rot.
If the Inside of the vehicle gets wet accidentally, tt Is worthwhile taking some trouble to dry ft out property, particularly where carpets an involved. Do not leave oil or electric heaters inside the vehicle for this purpose.
4 Minor body damage -repair
Repairs of minor scratches In bodywork If the scratch Is very superficial, and does not penetrate to the metal of the bodywork, repair is very simple. Lightly rub the area of the scratch with a paintwork renovator, or a very fine cutting paste, to remove loose paint from the scratch, and to clear the surrounding bodywork of wax polish, Rinse the area with clean water. Apply touch-up paint to ihe scratch using a fine paint brush; continue to apply fine layers of paint until the surface of the paint In the scratch Is level with the surrounding paintwork. Allow Ihe new paint at least two weeks to harden, then blend it Into the surrounding paintwork by rubbing the scratch area with a paintwork renovator or a very fine cutting paste. Finally, apply wax polish. Where the scratch has penetrated right through to the metal of the bodywork, causing the metal to rust, a different repair technique Is required. Remove any loose rust from the bottom of the scratch with a penknife, then apply rust-inhibiting paint to prevent the formation of rust in the future. Using a rubber or nylon applicator, fill the scratch with bodystopper paste. If required, this paste can be mixed with cellulose thinners to provide a very thin paste which is ideal for filling narrow scratches. Before the stopper-paste in Ihe scratch hardens, wrap a piece of smooth cotton rag around the top of a finger. Dip the finger in cellulose thinners, and quickly sweep it across the surface of the stopper-paste in the scratch: this will ensure that the surface of the stopper-paste is slightly hollowed. The scratch can now be painted over as described earlier In this Section.
Repairs of dents in bodywork When deop denting of the vehicle's bodywork has taken place, the first task is to put) the dent out. until the affected bodywork almost attains rts onginal shape. There is little polnl in trying to restore Ihe original shape completely, as the metal in the damaged area will have stretched on impact, and cannot be reshaped fully to its original contour. It Is better to bring the level of the dent up to a point which is about 3 mm below the level of the surrounding bodywork. In cases where Ihe dent is very shallow anyway, It is not worth trying to pull it out at all. If the underside of the dent is accessible, it can be hammered out gently from behind, using a mallet with a wooden or plastic head, Whilst doing this, hold a suitable block of wood firmly against (he outside of Ihe panel, to absorb the impact from the hammer blows and thus prevent a large area of the bodywork from being 'belled-out".
Should the dent be In a section of (I* bodywork which has a double skin, or seme other factor making It Inaccessible from behind, a different technique is called for. Dull several small holes through the metal inside Ihe area - particularly in the deeper section. Then screw long self-tapping screws Into the holes, just sufficiently for them to gain a good purchase in the metal. Now the dent can be pulled out by pulling on the protruding heads of the screws with a pair of pliers. The next stage of the repair Is the removal of the paint from the damaged area, and from an inch or so of the surrounding 'sound' bodywork. This is accomplished most easily by using a wire brush or abrasive pad on a posver drill, although it can be done just as effectively by hand, using sheets of abrasive paper. To complete the preparation for filling, score the surface of the bare metal wflhi screwdriver or the tang of 8 file, or alternatively, drill small holes In the affected area. This will provide a really good 'key' for the filler paste. To complete the repair, see the Section on filling and respraying.
Repairs of rust holes or gashes in bodywork Remove all paint from the affected area, and from an inch or so of the surrounding 'sound' bodywork, using an abrasive pad
or a
wire brush on a power drill. If these are not available, a few sheets of abrasive paper wil do the job most effectively. With the paint removed, you will be able to judge the severity of the corrosion, and therefore decide whether to renew the whole panel (if this is possible) or to repair the affected area. New body panels are not as expansive as most people think, and it is often quicker and more satisfactory to fit a new panel than to attempt to repair large areas of corrosion. Remove all fittings from Ihe affected area, except those which will act as a guide to ttie original shape of the damaged bodywork (eg headlight shells etc). Then, using tin snips
or a
hacksaw blade, remove all loose metal snd any other metal badly affected by corrosion. Hammer the edges of the hole inwards, in order to create a slight depression for the filer paste. Wire-brush the affected area to remove tha powdery rust from the surface of the remaining metal. Paint Ihe affected area with rust-inhibiting paint, if the beck of the rusted area is accessible, treat this also. Before filling can take place, ft will be necessary to block the hole in some
way.
TNs can be achieved by the use of aluminium cr plastic mesh, or aluminium tape. Aluminium or plastic mesh, or glass-fibre matting, is probably the best material to use for a large hole. Cut a piece to tha approximate size and shape of tho hole to b« filled, then position it In the hole so that its edges are below the level of the surrounding bodywork. It can be retained in position by

Bodywork and fittings
11
*3
several blobs of filler paste around its periphery. Aluminium tape should be used for small or very narrow holes. Pull a piece off the roll, trim it to the approximate size and shape required, then pull off the backing paper (if used) and stick the tape over the hole; it can be overlapped if the thickness of one piece is Insufficient. Burnish down the edges of the tape with the handle of a screwdriver or similar, to ensure that the tape is securely attached to the metal underneath.
Bodywork repairs -filling and respraying Before using this Section, see the Sections on dent, deep scratch, rust holes and gash repairs. Many types of bodyfiller are available, but generally speaking, those proprietary kits which contain a tin of filler paste and a tube of resin hardener are best for this type of repair. A wide, flexible plastic or nylon applicator will be found invaluable for imparting a smooth and well-contoured finish to the surface of the filler. Mix up a little filler on a clean piece of card or board • measure the hardener carefully (follow the maker's instructions on the pack), otherwise the filler will set too rapidly or too slowly. U3ing the applicator, apply the filler paste to the prepared area; draw the applicator across the surface of the filler to achieve the correct contour and to level the surface. As soon as a contour that approximates to the correct one is achieved, stop working the paste - if you carry on too long, the paste will become sticky and begin lo 'pick-up' on the applicator. Continue to add thin layers of filler paste at 20-minute Intervals, until the level of the filler is just proud of the surrounding bodywork. Once the filler has hardened, the excess can be removed using a metal plane or file. From then on, progressively-finer grades of abrasive paper should be used, starting with a 40-grade production paper, and finishing with a 400-grade wet-and-dry paper. Always wrap the abrasive paper around a flat rubber, cork, or wooden block • otherwise the surface of the filler will not be completely flat. During the smoothing of the filler surface, the wet-and-dry paper should be periodically rinsed in water. This will ensure that a very smooth finish is imparled to the filler at the final stage. At this stage, the dent should be surrounded by a ring of bare metal, which in turn should be encircled by the finely feathered' edge of the good paintwork. Rinse the repair area with clean water, until all of the dust produced by the rubbing-down operation has gone. Spray the whole area with a light coat of primer - this will show up any imperfections In the surface of the filler. Repair these imperfections with fresh filler paste or bodystopper, and once more smooth the surface with abrasive paper. Repeat this
spray-and-repair procedure until you are satisfied that the surface of the filler, and the feathered edge of the paintwork, are perfect. Clean the repair area with clean water, and allow to dry fully.
flflfl^gl tf txxfystopper is used, it can WiMiiBi be mixed with cellulose Hi NT thinners to form a really thin 1 1 paste which is Ideal for filling small holes.
The repair area Is now ready for final spraying. Paint spraying must be carried out in a warm, dry, windless and dust-free atmosphere. This condition can be created artificially if you have access to a large indoor working area, but If you are forced to work in the open, you will have to pick your day very carefully. If you are working indoors, dousing the floor In the work area with water will help to settle the dust which would otherwise be in the atmosphere. If the repair area is confined to one body panel, mask off the surrounding panels; this will help to minimise the effects of a slight mis-match in paint colours. Bodywork fittings (eg chrome strips, door handles etc) will also need to be masked off. Use genuine masking tape, and several thicknesses of newspaper, for the masking operations. Before commencing to spray, agitate the aerosol can thoroughly, then spray a test area (an old tin. or similar) until the technique is mastered. Cover the repair area with a thick coat of primer; the thickness should be built up using several thin layers of paint, rather than one thick one. Using 400-grade wet-and-dry paper, rub down the surface of the pnmer until it is really smooth. While doing this, the work area should be thoroughly doused with water, and the wet-and-dry paper periodically rinsed in water. Allow to dry before spraying on more paint. Spray on the top coat, again building up the thickness by using several thin layers of paint. Start spraying at one edge of the repair area, and then, using a side-to-side motion, work until the whole repair area and about 2 inches of the surrounding original paintwork is covered. Remove all masking material 10 to 15 minutes after spraying on the final coat of paint. Allow the new paint at least two weeks to harden, then, using a paintwork renovator, or a very fine cutting paste, blend the edges of the paint into the existing paintwork. Finally, apply wax polish.
Plastic components With the use of more and more plastic body components by the vehicle manufacturers (eg bumpers, spoilers, and in some cases major body panels), rectification of more serious damage to such items has become a matter of either entrusting repair work to a specialist in this field, or renewing complete components. Repair of such damage by the
DIY owner is not really feasible, owing to the cost of the equipment and materials required for effecting such repairs. The basic technique involves making a groove along the line of the crack in the plastic, using a rotary burr In a power drill. The damaged part is then welded back together, using a hot-air gun to heat up and fuse a plastic filler rod Into the groove. Any excess plastic is then removed, and the area rubbed down to a smooth finish. It is important that a filler rod of the correct plastic is used, as body components can be made of a variety of different types (eg polycarbonate, ABS, polypropylene). Damage of a less senous nature (abrasions, minor cracks etc) can be repaired by the DIY owner using a two-part epoxy filler repair material. Once mixed in equal proportions, this is used in similar fashion to the bodywork filler used on metal panels. The filler is usually cured in twenty to thirty minutes, ready for sanding and painting. If the owner is renewing a complete component himself, or If he has repaired it with epoxy filler, he will be left with the problem of finding a suitable paint for finishing which is compatible with the type of plastic used. At one time, the use of a universal paint was not possible, owing to the complex range of plastics encountered In body component applications. Standard paints, generally speaking, will not bond to plastic or rubber satisfactorily. However, it is now possible to obtain a plastic body parts finishing kit which consists of a pre-pnmer treatment, a primer and coloured top coat. Full Instructions are normally supplied with a kit, but basically, the method of use is to first apply the pre-pnmer to the component concerned, and allow It to dry for up to 30 minutes. Then the primer is applied, and left to dry for about an hour before finally applying the special-coloured top coat. The result is a correctly-coloured component, where the paint will flex with the plastic or rubber, a property that standard paint does not normally possess.
5 Major body damage -repair
Where serious damage has occurred, or large areas need renewal due to neglect, it means that complete new 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 check completely the alignment of the bodyshell, and this can only be carried out accurately by a Fiat dealer using special jigs. If the alignment of the bodyshell is not corrected, the car's handling may be seriously affected. In addition, excessive stress may be Imposed on the steering, suspension, tyres or transmission, causing abnormal wear or even complete failure.

11 *4 Bodywork and fittings
6.3s Remove the screws... 6.3b ... and lower the front section of the plastic wheel arch liners away from the bodywork
6 Front bumper -removal and refitting
Removal 1 Access to the front bumper mountings may be Improved by raising the front ot Ihe vehicle and resting it securely on axle stands (see Jacking and vehicle support), 2 Remove the direction indicator units from both front wings, as described In Chapter 12. Section 6. 3 Remove the screws and lower both plastic wheel arch liners away from the bodywork (see Illustrations), 4 Reach inside the wheel arch and remove the retaining screws from the trailing edges of Ihe bumper moulding (see illustration). 5 Slacken and withdraw the four screws from
6.S Slacken and withdraw the four screws from the lower edge of the bumper the lower edge of the bumper (see illustration). 6 Support Ihe bumper moulding, then remove the four retaining bolts from the upper edge of the bumper (located eithor side of the headlight units) (see Illustration).
7.4 Slacken and withdraw tho four screws 7.5 Remove the four retaining bolts from from the lower edge of the bumper the upper edge of the bumper
6.4 Remove the retaining screws (arrowed) from the trailing odges of the bumper moulding
6.6 Remove the retaining bolts (arrowed) from either side of (he headlight units 7 Where applicable, unplug the wiring from the rear of tho fogiamp units. 8 Unclip any electrical cabling securea to tne rear side of Ihe bumper and then carefully draw the bumper away from fhe front ot the vehicle.
Refitting 9 The bumper is refitted by following the removal procedure in reverse.
7 Rear bumper
-
% removal and refitting
Removal 1 Access to the rear bumper mountings may be improved by raising the rear of the vehicle and resting it securely on axle stands (see Jacking and vehicle support), 2 After removing the retaining screws and nuts, lower both rear wheel arch plastic liners away from the bodywork (see Illustration) ( 3 Reach Inside the rear wheel arches and remove the retaining screws from the leading edges ot the bumper moulding (see illustration). 4 Stackon and withdraw the four screws from the lower edge of the bumper (see illustration). 1 5 Support the bumper moulding, then remove the four retaining bolts from the upper edge ol the bumper (see illustration). 6 Unclip any electrical cabling that may Dt secured to the inside of ihe bumper, thM carefully draw the bumper off its guide brackets and away from the rear ot the vehicle.

Bodywork and fittings
11
*5
8.2 Release the fixings and lower the trim panel away from the tailgate
Refitting 7 The pumper is refitted by following the removal procedure In reverse.
8 Tailgate- ^ removal and refitting
Removal 1 Disconnect the battery negative tormina) {refer to D/sconnecf/ng the battery In the Reference Section of this manual}. 2 Release the press stud fixings and extract ihe screws, then lower the trim panel away from the tailgate (see illustration). 3 Working inside the tailgate, disconnect all wiring harness connectors and unbolt the earth leads. Check for any other wiring connectors which must be disconnected to facilitate tailgate removal. Note: Carefully label each wiring harness connector (o aid correct refitting. 4 Tie a length of cord to the wiring harness, then bind the loose ends of the cabling together using PVC tape. Prise the winng harness grommets from the upper edge of the tailgate, then feed the wiring through the aperture in the tailgate. Untie the cord from the harness, but leave it In place In the tailgate, to aid refitting later. 5 Where applicable, remove the fluid hose from the tailgate washer nozzle, as described in Chapter 12. Section 16. then tie a length of
8.2a Lever off the balljoint spring clip...
8.8 Slacken and unscrew the bolts (arrowed) securing the hinges to the tailgate
cord to the hose and draw it out of the tailgate, using the same procedure carried out on the wiring harness. 8 Have an assistant support the tailgate in the open position. 7 Detach the upper ends of the support stmts from the tailgate as described in Section 9. 8 Slacken and unscrew the bolts securing tho hinges to the tailgate (seo illustration), then lift the tailgate from the vehicle.
Refitting 9 Refitting is a reversal of removal, bearing in mind the following points. a) Tie the cord to the wiring harness and use It to pull the harness through the aperture and into the tailgate. Where applicable, repeat the procedure on the washer fluid hose. b) Do not fully tighten the hinge bolts until the tailgate adjustment has been checAed, as described in the following paragraphs.
Adjustment 10 Close the tailgate carefully, in case the alignment is Incorrect, which may cause scratching on the tailgate or the body as the tailgate is closed, and check for alignment with the adjacent panels. If necessary, slacken the bolts that secure the hinges to the bodywork and re-align the tailgate to suit. Once the tailgate is correctly aligned, tighten the hinge bolts securely.
9.2b ... and then prise strut balljoint from the stud on tho taitgate
11 Check that the tailgate fastens and releases In a satisfactory manner. If adjustment Is necessary, slacken the striker plate retaining bolts, and adjust the position of the lock to suit (see Section 10). Once the lock is operating correctly, securely tighten the striker plate retaining bolts. 12 If necessary, adjust the protrusion of the rubber buffers at the lower edge of the tailgate, by screwing them in or out as appropriate.
9 Tailgate strut - ^ removal and refitting
Removal 1 Open the tailgate and support it using suitable wooden props. 2 At the upper end of each strut, lever off the balljoint spring clip. Compress tho strut slightly by hand and then prise strut balljoint from the stud on the tailgate (see illustrations),

A


Warning: The strut may still be under tension and could extend suddenly once detached from Its mountings. 3 At the lower end of the strut, unbolt the joint Irom the bodywork. Refitting 4 Refitting is a reversal of removal.
10 Tailgate lock components -removal and refitting ^
Lock and cylinder assembly Removal 1 With the tailgate held In the fully open position, slacken and unscrew the bolts securing the lock assembly to tho lower edge of tho tailgate (soo illustration). 2 Carefully withdraw the lock assembly, together with tne lock cylinder (see Illustration).
10.1 Unscrew the bolts (arrowed) securing the lock assembly to the lower edge of the tailgate

11
*6 Bodywork and fittings
10.3c ... and lift off die lock cylinder
3 The lock cylinder may be separated from the assembly by first uncllpplng the plastic shield and then removing the securing screw (see Illustrations). Refitting 4 Refitting is Ihe reversal of removal.
Striker plate
Removal 5 With the tailgate held In the fully open position, mark the position of the striker plate In relation to the bodywork using a pencil or marker pen, to aid accurate refitting. 6 Slacken and unscrew the bolts securing the striker plate to the bodywork (see Illustration) 7 Remove the striker plate from its aperture, to expose the remote release cable. 8 The release cable may be adjusted by altering the position of Ihe cable outer sheath wKhin its retaining bracket (see illustration) Refitting 9 Refitting is a reversal of removal. Use the markings made during removal to givo Ihe correct alignment. 10 Check that the tailgate fastens and releases in a satisfactory manner. If adjustment Is necessary, slacken the striker plate retaining bolts, and adjust Ihe position ot the plate to suit. Once the lock is operating correctly, securely tighten the striker plate retaining bolls.
10.3a Unclip tho plastic shield... 10.3b ... remove the screw...
10.8 Slackon and unsorew the bolts (arrowed) securing the strfker plate to the bodywork
Si
10,8 Adjust the rolease cable by altering the position of the cable outer sheath within its bracket (arrowed)
11 Bonnet-removal and refitting
Removal 1 Open the bonnet and prop it up with a stout pole. 2 Disconnect the washer Jet hoses at the three way joint (see illustration), 3 Mark the relationship between the hinges and the edge of the bonnet using a soft pencil or markor pen. Slacken and unscrew the bolts: have an assistant support the bonnet as the last bolts aro removed (see Illustration),
4 With the help of an assistant, lift off the bonnet and set it down on its edge, using a dust sheet to protect the paintwork.
Refitting 5 Refit the bonnet by reversing the removal process, using the markings made dunng removal to achieve the correct alignment. Note that the boll mounting holes are slotted to allow adjustment if required. On completion, tighten the bolts to the specified torque. 8 Check that the bonnet fastens and releases in a satisfactory manner. If necessary, adjust the bonnet lock components, as described
m
Section 12.

Bodywork and fittings
11
*7
12.4 Adjusting the extension of the bonnet pin
12 Bonnet lock components - ^ removal and refitting H
Latch and release lever assembly
Removal 1 Secure the bonnet In the fully open position using the stay. Mark the relationship between the latch and the surface of the bonnet using a soft pencil or marker pen. 2 Slacken and unscrew the bolts, then lower the latch assembly away from the bonnot. Refitting 3 Refitting is a reversal of removal. Use the alignment markings made during removal to aid accurate refitting. Note that the mounting holes are slotted to allow adjustment if required. On completion, tighten the bolts securely. 4 The extension of the bonnet pin may be adjusted in necessary, by slackening the locknut and turning the pin with a flat-bladed screwdriver (see illustration).
Striker plate
Removal 5 Mark the relationship between the striker plate and the bodywork using a soft pencil or marker pen. The striker plate can then be removed by slackening and withdrawing the three securing bolts and unhooking the release cable from the operating lever. Refitting 6 Refitting is a reversal of removal. Use the alignment markings made during removal to aid accurate refitting. Note that the mounting holes are slotted to allow adjustment if required. On completion, tighten the bolts securely.
Suffers 7 If necessary, adjust the protrusion of the rubber buffers on the front crossmember, (located above each headlamp unit) by screwing them in or out as appropriate. When the rubber buffers are correctly adjusted, there should be just enough free movement to
14.3a Remove the screw .
allow the bonnet to be closed and locked easily, without using excessive force, but not enough to allow the bonnet to rattle when secured in the locked position.
13 Bonnet release cable -removal and refitting I
Removal 1 Secure the bonnet in the fully open position. With reference to Section 12, detach Ihe bonnet release cable from the striker plate operating lever. 2 Unscrew the cable clip from above the nght hand headlamp unit. 3 Working around the engine bay, extract the release cable from its securing clips. 4 In the drivers footweil, extracl Ihe fixings and lower the sound insulation panel (where fitted) away from the underside of the steering column/facia. 5 Push the bonnet release handle towards the bulkhead slightly, then free the release cable end fitting from its recess in the handle. Lift the cable inner up, pass the end fitting through the larger hole and withdraw it from the handle. Extract the release cable outer from the mounting bracket by carefully pulling down on the plastic collar. 6 Release the cable from the remaining clips under the facia, then carefully pull the entire cable through the bulkhead grommet Info the engine bay.
14.3b ... then prise out the door grab handle moulding
Refitting 7 Refit the cable by reversing the removal process. On completion, close the bonnet to check that it locks securely, then check the operation of tho release mechanism. If adjustment is required, this can be achieved by repositioning the slotted plastic collar fitted to the cable outer sheath, in the mounting lug on the underside of the striker plate.
14 Door inner trim panel -removal and refitting I
Removal Note: This section describes the removal of the front door trim panel; the procedure for removing the rear door trim panel is essentially the same, 1 Disconnect the battery negative terminal (refer to Disconnecting the battery in the Reference Section of this manual). 2 With reference to Section 17. remove the trim panel from the rear of the door mirror fixings. 3 Lift off the caps and remove the screw, then prise out the door grab handle moulding (see Illustrations) 4 Prise the electric window/mirror adjustment switch from the armrest and unplug the wiring connector(s). Label them to aid correct refitting later (see illustrations).
14.4a Prise the electric window/mirror adjustment switch from the armrest... 14.4b ... and unplug the wiring connector

11
*8 Bodywork and fittings
14.5a Unscrew the door panel securing screws, located on the edge of the armrest moulding... 5 Unscrew Ihe door panel securing screws, located on Ihe edge of the armrest moulding and around the outside edge of the door trim panel - note that some are concealed beneath plastic caps (see illustrations). 6 Using a Suitable forked tool inserted between the door end the trim panel, release Ihe press-stud clips located around Ihe edge of Ihe panel. Ihen lift the trim panel upwards. Recover the locking knob Inm collars (see illustrations). 7 Pull the panel from the door, noting that Ihe lower window aperture weatherstrip is integral with the trim panel and must bo released from the door as the panel Is withdrawn. B If work Is lo be earned out nn the door Internal oomponenls. it will be necessary to remove the plastic soaling sheet from tho inside ot the door Starl ol one comer of the sheet and carefully peel il away, using a sharp blade to split the sealant bead (see (lustration).
j
14.8a Release the press-stud clips located around the edge of tho panel...
trim collars from above...
14.5b ... and around the outside edge of the door trim panel
9 Store Ihe detached sealing sheet such that it cannot become contaminated with dust: this will allow it to be re-used later.
Refitting 10 Refilling Is a reversal of removal, bearing in mind the following points:
a) Ensure that the sealing sheet is correctly refitted, press it on firmly to ensure that it is adequately sealed around its edges. It should be possible fo use the origins} sealant, but if necessary, new sealant can be obtained from a Fiat dealer. b) Before refitting the trim panel, feed the electric window switch wlnng through the aperture in the front of Ihe panel. c) Make sure that the weatherstrip engages securely with the edge of the door as the panel Is refitted.
i4,6b ... then lift the trim panel upwards...
14.6d ... and below tho panel
15 Door- & removal and refitting is
Note: 7?ws procedure is applicable both to
the
front and rear doors.
Removal Note: A new door check strap rolbpin
win
be requited on refitting. 1 Disconnect the battery negative terminal (refer to O/sconoecf/ng fhe battery In Ihe Reference Section of this manual). 2 Unplug Ihe multiway electrical connector from the inner edge of the door. 3 Have an assistant support the door, then unscrew the door hinges centre bolts, and hit the door from the vehicle.
Refitting 4 Refitting is a reversal of removal. On completion, tighten the hinge centre bolts securely.
Adjustment 5 Close the door carefully, In case the alignment is incorrect, which may cause scratching on the door or the body BS the door is closed, and check the fit ot the door with the surrounding panels. 6 II adjustment Is required, loosen the hinge-to-body securing bolts (the bolt holes are elongated to allow lor adjustment) and move the hinges as required to achieve satisfactory alignment. Tighten the securing bolls securely on completion. 7 Check the operation of the door lock. If necessary, slacken the securing bolts, and adjust Ihe position of Ihe lock striker on the body pillar to achieve satisfactory alignment-Tighten the bolts securely on completion,
16 Door handle and lock components -removal and refitting ^
1 Ensure that the door window glass is in the fully closed position, then disconnect ihe battery negative terminal (refer to Drscoryiecfrrg fhe battery In the Reference Section of this
•
m-i -14.8 Carefully peel the sealing sheet away, using a sharp blade to spilt the sealant bead

Bodywork and fittings
11
*9
16.5b ... and lift the handle assembly from the door manual). Refer to Section 14 and remove the door inner trim panei and sealing sheet.
Door handle
Removal 2 Where applicable on 3-door models, refer to Section 18 and remove the bolts lhat secure the window glass guide rail to the door, then remove the guide rail. 3 Working inside the door space, unbolt and remove the anti-theft bracket from the rear of the door handle (see illustration). 4 Detach the link rod from the door lock mechanism (see Illustration). 5 Slacken and remove the handle retaining screws and lift the handle assembly from the door (see illustrations). Refitting 6 Refit the door handle by following the removal procedure in reverse. Ensure that the
connector
16.7a Release the retaining clip from the rear of the cylinder using a pair of pliors
link rod engages correctly with the lock mechanism operating lever.
Lock cylinder 7 Working inside the door space, release the metal retaining clip from the rear of the cylinder using a pair of pliers (see illustrations). Extract the lock cylinder from the door. Refitting 8 Refitting is a reversal of removal. Ensure thai the lugs on the rear of the cylinder engage correctly with the lock mechanism. Lock mechanism
Removal 9 Working inside the door space, unplug the wiring for the central locking motor and switches, at the multiway connector {see Illustration).
16.10 Remove the three screws that secure the lock mechanism to the door
16.7b Extract the lock cylinder Irom tho door
10 At the trailing edge of the door, remove Ihe three screws that secure the lock mechanism to the door (see Illustration). 11 Disconnect the locking knob link rod from the lever on the top of the lock mechanism. Note: On mode's fitted with a plastic anti-theft lock shield, the locking knob link rod remains connected to the lock mechanism and is then removed with the mechanism as a complete assembly. 12 With reference to the relevant sub-section. detach the exterior door handle link rod from the lock mechanism operating lever. 13 Unclip the link rod for the interior door handle from lis guide, I hen manoeuvre the lock mechanism out of the door (see illustration). Refitting
14 Refitting is a reversal of removal. On completion, tighten the lock mechanism retaining screws securely.
16.13 Manoeuvre the lock mechanism out of the door