UNDER THE BONNET TOP TIP

1 CHECK BRAKE FLUID

The reservoir is located underneath the scuttle panel cover on the rear offside of the engine bay. Undo the three plastic quickrelease screws and a 10mm-headed plastic screw, then prise off the cover and its rubber seal to reveal the reservoir. Check the level on the side and top up with DOT 4. Test it for moisture. Renew the fluid every two years.

2 TOP-UP WINDSCREEN WASH

Access to the windscreen washer reservoir is located in the front offside corner of the engine bay. Release the blue cap, then pour in a mixture of water and windscreen washer fluid (not washing-up liquid). The reservoir is located quite low down, so pour until the level settles inside the filler neck.

3 TEST WIPERS/WASHERS

Close the bonnet, switch on the ignition and operate the windscreen washers and wipers to check the nozzles are not blocked – if they are, clear them with a dressmaking pin. Switch off and inspect the condition of the wiper blades, looking for any cracks and splits in the rubber.

4 CHECK COOLANT

Provided the engine is cold –so the coolant is not hot and pressurised – release the filler cap and look inside. Test it with a hydrometer. There is a ‘Max’ marker inside, which should be immersed in the coolant. If it’s not, top up with whatever has been used before.

5 INSPECT AIR FILTER

The air filter should be renewed every third oil service or 60,000 miles and inspected in between. Undo a series of Torx T30 screws to release its lid, along with a Jubilee clip for the induction pipe from it to the throttle body. Extract the filter and either clean or replace it. Remove any dirt from inside the housing.

6 GREASE BONNET RELEASE

There are two bonnet release catches located at the front of the engine bay, next to each headlight. Remove any dirt or grime from inside them. Spray a light grease or oil over them, then check the bonnet can be fully closed and opened again.

7 CHECK DRIVEBELT

The auxiliary drivebelt for the alternator and aircon pump is located at the front of the engine, on the offside of the engine bay. There’s not much room to inspect it, so use a compact lamp to illuminate it. Look for damage across the outer edge and the ribs.