Introduction

General information 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.

Servicing of your vehicle in accordance with the mileage/time maintenance schedule and the following Sections will provide a planned maintenance program, which should result in a long and reliable service life. This is a comprehensive plan, so maintaining some items but not others at the specified service intervals will not produce the same results.

As you service your vehicle, you will discover that many of the procedures can - and should - be grouped together because of the particular procedure being performed, or because of the close proximity of two otherwise unrelated components to one another. For example, if the vehicle is raised for any reason, the exhaust can be inspected at the same time as the suspension and steering components.

The first step in this maintenance program is to prepare yourself before the actual work begins. Read through all the Sections relevant to the work to be carried out, then make a list and gather together all the parts and tools required. If a problem is encountered, seek advice from a parts specialist, or a dealer service department.

    See also:

    Fuel pump - removal and refitting
    Caution: Refer to the precautions in Section 1 before proceeding. Mechanical pump Note: A new gasket must be used when refitting the pump. 1 Disconnect the battery negative lead. 2 For improved ...

    Power-operated folding roof components - removal and refitting
    Hydraulic rams Removal 1 Remove the rear wheelhouse covers with reference to Section 32. 2 Mark the two hoses connected to the ram as a guide to reassembly, then remove the circlips securing the ...

    Rear suspension front mounting (Saloon, Hatchback and Estate models) - renewal
    1 Chock the front wheels, jack up the rear of the vehicle and support on axle stands placed under the side members. 2 Unscrew and remove the three bolts securing the relevant front guide plate to ...