Routine maintenance and servicing

This Chapter is designed to help the home mechanic maintain his/her vehicle for safety, economy, long life and peak performance.

The Chapter contains a master maintenance schedule, followed by Sections dealing specifically with each task on the schedule. Visual checks, adjustments, component renewal and other helpful items are included. Refer to the accompanying illustrations of the engine compartment and the underside of the vehicle for the locations of the various components.

See also:

Engine dismantling, examination, renovation and reassembly - general information
Dismantling 1 It is best to mount the engine on a dismantling stand but if this is not available, stand the engine on a strong bench at a comfortable working height. Failing this, it will have to ...

Pistons/connecting rods - removal and refitting
Removal 1 Remove the sump, as described in Section 8, and the cylinder head, as described in Section 7. 2 Check that the connecting rod and cap have adjacent numbers at their big-end to indicate ...

Manual transmission oil level check (Every 12 000 miles or 12 months)
1 With the car on level ground wipe the area around the filler plug, then unscrew the plug using a socket spanner, or on later versions a suitable Torx or Allen key or socket bit, as applicable. A ...