Engine Oil Replacement, Level Check, General Maintenance

Lift the vehicle on a hydraulic lift and locate the drain plug of the oil sump: it is located at the rear right corner of the sump. After positioning a suitable container (approximately 5 litres), unscrew the plug to allow the used oil to drain.

Next, locate the oil filter (it is located at the front, just above the oil sump, next to the air conditioning compressor) and remove it with a metal band or chain wrench (also place a container under the filter to catch any oil that spills out). Then apply the new filter, having coated the gasket with oil to improve its adherence, and tighten it by hand.

Reassemble the oil sump plug, replacing the copper gasket and tightening it securely.

Then fill the engine with new oil according to the SAE specifications and the quantities indicated in the user and maintenance manual. Start the engine for a few minutes and check the oil level using the dipstick.

At this point, check the oil level of the gearbox: simply loosen the filler plug (the one located at the front on the side of the gearbox) and verify that oil comes out. Check the wear state of the brake discs (the surface should appear fairly smooth, not excessively jagged, and the lip that forms on the outer edge due to wear should not be excessive) and check for any brake fluid leaks from the hose connected to the caliper.

Then check the wear state of the rear brake shoes by removing the elliptical rubber cap present inside the hub and also check for any brake fluid leaks along the entire line, up to the brake pump.

Ensure the integrity of the CV joint boots, both on the wheel hub side and the gearbox side. Check the condition of the wishbone ball joints and the links, verifying the integrity of the rubber boots and the absence of any play; also check the rubber bushes of the anti-roll bar supports.

Ensure the integrity of the steering rack boots, the absence of play on the tie rod ends, and the meshing of the rack and pinion of the steering box: make small left-right movements with the steering wheel and check that the rotation of the steering wheel corresponds to a quick movement of the wheels, without any slack; then check the power steering oil level through the dipstick located under the cap of the oil reservoir in front of the timing belt, near the air conditioning pipes.

Check the rear suspension and the rubber mounts of the exhaust and the integrity of the exhaust itself (especially at the welds).

Check the pressure of the spare tyre. Thoroughly inspect the engine to ensure there are no oil leaks.

Remove the protective cover of the timing belt and assess its wear state: the belt should not show any fraying or shredding; perform the same check for the auxiliary belt. Then replace the air filter by unscrewing the screws securing the cover of the container, removing the old filter, and inserting the new one after cleaning the container of any debris.

Also replace the cabin filter located under the windscreen, inside the compartment corresponding to the right front shock absorber support. Check the level of the coolant in the respective reservoir (located just next to the compartment just described).

Then fill the windscreen washer reservoir: it is located near the right front headlamp. Lubricate the front bonnet lock.

Check the integrity of the various wiring and rubber hoses, especially at the connections. Check the efficiency of the battery: remove the cover and check that the inspection window is green and that there is no oxidation on the terminal posts.

Finally, check the proper functioning of all lights; check the tyre pressures; lubricate the locks, opening handles, and hinges.