OTHER ITEMS

28 CHECK ALL WIPERS

Are the windscreen wipers functioning as they should? Make sure the rubber isn’t perished or torn, which could lead to the glass being scratched. As you can see here, our rear one is in a woeful condition. Also check that the washer jets aim properly at the windscreen – they can be adjusted using a small pin.

30 RESET SERVICE INDICATOR

To reset the service indicator, switch off the ignition, then press the knob to the right of the fuel gauge (underneath the right indicator light) and turn on the ignition. Keep the knob pressed down until the display counts down to zero and the spanner maintenance symbol disappears. Turn off the ignition.

29 CHECK ALL INSTRUMENTS

Inside the cabin, tug hard on the seatbelts to make sure they ‘grab’ properly – if they don’t, it’s a safety issue and an MOT fail. Make sure all instruments, controls and lights are working. You can use a nearby wall or similar to check the brake lights are working from their reflection.

31 LUBRICATE ALL LOCKS

Something often overlooked during services is that the locks, catches and hinges are lubricated with spray grease or household oil from a can. If this gets skipped, it could result in things becoming stiff or seizing. The best way to get right into locks is to use an extension nozzle.

32 ADJUST HANDBRAKE

Try out the handbrake. If it takes too many ‘clicks’ before it engages, or doesn’t hold the car sufficiently, it will need adjustment. This is quite simple: prise off the small plastic cover over the handbrake lever, then use a long socket to adjust the nut underneath until it functions as it should.