This paper presents predictions and validations of shape distortions of a curved C-spar, using a simulation tool developed in the general purpose FE-program ABAQUS. The simulation tool is based on a simplified mechanical constitutive model that accounts for the mechanisms identified in a previous experimental study concerning the influence from the cure schedule on shape distortions. The main objective of the present paper is to validate the simplified constitutive model and a simplified simulation approach. The feasibility for simulation of shape distortions of a component with relatively complex shape has also been investigated. © 2005 Sage Publications.