In collision repair terminology, what is meant by 'panel alignment'?

Panel alignment refers to the process of adjusting and fitting car body panels after a collision repair to ensure that all components are properly aligned and function as intended. This is crucial for both aesthetic and functional purposes. Proper alignment helps maintain the vehicle's structural integrity and ensures that doors, hoods, and other panels open and close correctly without gaps or misalignment. The vehicle's aerodynamic properties and overall appearance also benefit from accurate panel alignment, making it a vital step in the repair process following any damage.

In contrast, the other options focus on different aspects of vehicle maintenance or repair that do not involve the precise adjustment and fitting of panels. Cleaning the surface of vehicle panels addresses cosmetic improvements but does not impact alignment. Restoring the paint finish pertains to aesthetics as well but does not relate to how panels fit together structurally. Enhancing the security of car doors involves modifications unrelated to the alignment of body panels, making these other options distinct from the function of panel alignment.