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:

    Carbon canister-purge solenoid (models with catalytic converter) - removal and refitting
    2.0 litre DOHC models 1 The purge solenoid is located next to the carbon canister, on the right-hand side of the engine compartment. 2 Disconnect the battery negative lead. 3 Disconnect the solen ...

    Ford VV carburettor automatic choke components - removal, checking and refitting
    Bi-metal housing Note: A new gasket will be required on refitting. Removal 1 Disconnect the battery negative lead. 2 Remove the air cleaner as described in Section 2. 3 Release any pressure in ...

    Windscreen/tailgate wiper blades and arms - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 Pull the wiper arm away from the glass until the arm locks. 2 Depress the small clip on the blade and slide the blade out of the hooked part of the arm (see illustration). 17.2 Disco ...