UNDERBONNET SERVICING
1 BONNET RELEASE GREASE
The bonnet release is located in the boot of the MGF and TF. A cable is routed all the way to the front of the vehicle and can seize if it’s not lubricated, so spray some light grease into the mechanism on top of the front crash panel. It’s also worthwhile applying a light grease to the bonnet, boot and door hinges, and the boot lock mechanism.
2 BRAKE FLUID
The brake fluid reservoir is located underneath the bonnet at the nearside, above the brake servo. The fluid should be renewed every two years with fresh DOT 4. Its condition can be checked via the reservoir using an electronic brake fluid tester. The level should be up to the ‘MAX’ mark on the side of the reservoir.
3 WINDSCREEN WASH
The windscreen washer reservoir is located in the middle of the front compartment, behind the spare wheel. Do not use liquid detergent as this can block any filters. Remove the spare wheel to check whether water has collected underneath. If so, extract the drain plug to expel the water, then dry the metalwork.
4 HEATER LEAKS
The design of the plastic heater air intake on the MGF allows rainwater to leak into the passenger footwell, so check the carpet to see if it’s wet. This problem was fixed on the TF with a snorkel-shaped heater intake that can be retro-fitted to the MGF. The servo needs to be unbolted and moved forward slightly to access the mounting bolts for the intake, and the glovebox must be removed.
5 CHECK HYDRAGAS (MGF)
The pressure in the Hydragas on the MGF can be checked using a Liquid Levers Hydravac suspension pump. First, measure the distance of each wheel centre to the wheelarch above. There are two Hydragas Schrader valves located under the bonnet. Remove the plastic trim panel to access them (it’s secured with 10mm plastic nuts).
6 HEADLIGHT CHECKS
If any of the headlight bulbs aren’t working, access to the back of the headlight unit is relatively straightforward from under the bonnet. Opaque headlights are a common problem. If a repair kit doesn’t help, new Xpart headlights from Martin Smith cost £191.99£203.99 each. Removing the headlight requires the front bumper to be detached to access a mounting bolt at the side.
7 CHECK BATTERY
The vehicle’s 12-volt battery is located under the bonnet on the nearside. Use a battery tester to check its condition, apply petroleum jelly over the terminals and make sure they are securely fitted. The battery is secured in position using a 13mm bolt, which can be checked with a deep socket and extension bar.