EXTERIOR INSPECTION

19 GREASE HINGES

Apply a spray grease to the hinges and locks for the doors, rear tailgate and the bonnet (including the bonnet release mechanism). Operate them to make sure they’re not seized and to help work the grease inside.

20 CHECK HEADLIGHT BULBS

Operate the sidelights, headlights, main beam and indicators to check there are no blown bulbs inside the headlights. All of these bulbs can be accessed from inside the engine bay at the back of each headlight unit.

21 TEST REAR LIGHTS

If a bulb has blown at the rear, lift the tailgate, then undo two 10mm bolts for the rear light unit. Wiggle the light unit to help release it from two steel locating pegs, then detach its wiring plug and unclip the bulb holder from inside. Be prepared for brittle plastic clips.

22 CHECK TYRES

Check all the tyres for unevenly worn tread and damage. The recommended pressures are displayed on the nearside B-post. Remove the spare wheel from inside the boot to inspect it and check its pressure.

23 CHECK THE BOOT FLOOR

The boot and boot floor (spare wheel well) can suffer from water ingress, so make sure it’s not damp. If it is, extract the two drain plugs. Spray some grease over the thread for the spare wheel’s securing bolt.

24 CHECK WIPERS

Inspect the condition of the front and rear wipers. The single front wiper is quite awkward to replace because it has a twin arm, so can only be lifted a few inches. Try to unhook the wiper from the arm, then detach the plastic fitting before sliding the wiper off the arm. We had to fit it over the arm first, then manoeuvre the plastic attachment into position, clicking it in place.