PV444 / PV544

1947-1965 / Sedan / Sweden

All PV444 / PV544 problems All workshop issues

Critical Body and Rust

Chassis Legs and Subframe

Symptoms

The front chassis legs (beams) and subframe corrode, particularly where the subframe bolts to the chassis. In extreme cases, engine mounts fail and the engine literally drops.

Cause

Road salt, moisture, and decades of neglect. The engine bay traps water and dirt.

Fix

Replace affected sections.

This is serious structural work, not a job for beginners.

If the chassis legs are Swiss cheese, walk away unless you're committed to a full resto.

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Other known issues

Common Body and Rust

Front Wings and Headlight Bowls

The top of the front wings (fenders) rust badly, especially above the headlights and around the indicator lights. The headlight bowls themselves corrode from the inside.

Critical Body and Rust

Sills (Rocker Panels)

The sills rot, badly. All three sections, outer sill, inner sill, and the welded-in reinforcement, corrode together.

Common Body and Rust

Doors and Drain Holes

Doors rust at the bottom. Hinges sag or seize. Water sits inside the door skin.

Critical Body and Rust

Boot Floor and Spare Wheel Container

The boot (trunk) floor and spare wheel well rust through. Fuel tank can corrode or leak.

Common Body and Rust

Rear Wheel Arches and Rear Wings

Rear wings rust at the wheel arches, the ridged lower section behind the wheel, and the leading edge on top (near the captive nuts).

Common Body and Rust

Windscreen and Window Surrounds

Rust around the windscreen and rear window, often hidden under the rubber seal or chrome trim clips. White fog (haze) inside the glass indicates moisture ingress.

View all 23 PV444 / PV544 problems