RUST & UNDERSIDE CHECKS

28 INSPECT COIL SPRINGS

Visually inspect each coil spring for any fractures in the coils. Don’t place your fingers between the coils in case you disturb anything and the spring traps them. You may be able to see more of the coil springs when the wheels have been removed to service the brakes.

29 LOOK FOR CORROSION

Rust prevention is poor on the XF. Surface corrosion on the suspension components, underbody bracing and the rear subframe is common. Check that the lower mounts for the rear shock absorbers haven’t corroded and weakened. Clean and rust-protect the exposed areas of the rear subframe, detaching and cleaning any brace bars.

30 REAR DIFFERENTIAL OIL

The rear diff has an inspection hole on the side, but if there are no signs of leaks – such as the one shown here that’s covered in surface corrosion – you may want to assume the oil level is OK. If you want to check the level, undo the inspection hole and dip a finger inside. The level should be below the hole. Millers Oils recommend a range of 75W90 oils.

31 AUTOBOX TROUBLE

Most XFS have a ZF automatic gearbox with a plastic sump pan. The oil should be renewed every 60,000 miles using ZF Lifeguard oil. The filter needs to be renewed at the same time. The plastic sump pan can crack and leak, but it’s renewed at every oil service because the filter and sump pan are supplied as one assembly.