Introduction

The Volkswagen Golf, Jetta, and GTI have unit construction steel bodies that are exceptionally strong and light. Their lightness contributes greatly to the outstanding performance and fuel economy of the cars. Because very few screws and bolts are used in assembling the body, fewer rattles are likely to develop. The ride is quieted further by the application of sound-dampening material to the floor plates and the body panels.

During manufacture, the various body panels and subassemblies, plus a number of smaller pressed-steel panels and plates, are joined by electric welding. Although all body panels are available as replacement parts, replacement panels must be butt-welded to the undamaged parts of the body after the damaged panels have been cut away. This work should only be undertaken by an experienced body repair technician.

The front fenders, however, are bolted to the main body structure so that they can be easily and economically replaced in the event of damage. The hood, the grille, the doors, and the luggage compartment lid are also removable. These bolt-on components are easily replaced by persons with little or no knowledge of auto body repair. If you lack the skills, special equipment, or a suitable workshop for extensive body repairs, we suggest that you leave this work to an authorized Volkswagen dealer or other qualified repair shop. We especially urge you to consult a Volkswagen dealer before beginning repairs on a vehicle that may be subject to Volkswagen's warranty coverage.