Battery terminal check (Every 12 000 miles (20 000 km) or 12 months)

Caution: Before carrying out any work on the vehicle battery, read through the precautions given in “Safety first!” at the beginning of this manual.

1 The battery fitted as original equipment is “maintenance-free”, and requires no maintenance apart from having the case kept clean, and the terminals clean and tight.

2 To clean the battery terminals disconnect them, after having first removed the cover (later models) - negative earth first. Use a wire brush or abrasive paper to clean the terminals. Bad corrosion should be treated with a solution of bicarbonate of soda, applied with an old toothbrush. Do not let this solution get inside the battery.

3 Coat the battery terminals with petroleum jelly or a proprietary anti-corrosive compound before reconnecting them. Reconnect and tighten the positive (live) lead first, followed by the negative (earth) lead. Do not overtighten.

4 Keep the top of the battery clean and dry.

Inspect the battery tray for corrosion, and make good as necessary.

    See also:

    Centre console - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 Remove the gear lever knob. 2 Pull the rubber gaiter up the lever and remove it. 3 Undo the four screws and remove the console (see illustrations). 30.3a Centre console lower retaini ...

    Exhaust gas oxygen (HEGO) sensor (2.0 litre DOHC/1.6 & 1.8 litre (R6A type) CVH) - removal and refitting
    Note: Do not touch the tip of the HEGO sensor as this will drastically shorten its service life. Note: A new sealing ring should be used on refitting. Removal 1 Ensure that the engine and the ex ...

    Specifications
    Battery Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 volt lead-acid, 35 to 52 Ah depending on model Charge condition: Poor . . . ...