Fast estate

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Service Bay

2018 MINI F54 CLUBMAN COOPER S 2.0 PETROL

Rob Hawkins follows Mad4Mini servicing a petrol engine F54 Clubman Cooper S

The second generation of the popular Clubman appeared in 2015 (codenamed F54) and we’re following the ser vice of a 2018 Cooper S model at independent specialist Mad4Mini. This is powered by a 1998cc twin- cam petrol engine and mated to an automatic gearbox.

BMW ’s recommended ser vice inter vals for the MINI aren’t as straightfor ward as you’d expect. They are based on usage instead of mileage to help preser ve a vehicle that undergoes short runs versus one that spends most of its days on a motor way. So, we’ve cobbled together a ser vice schedule to help outline the work that should be conducted, but it ’s not exactly the same as what BMW recommend.

There are similar issues when it comes to choosing the right engine oil. There are several listed, ranging in viscosity from 0W-20 to 5W-40. The correct one depends on climate, but more impor tantly, make sure it’s BMW compliant and there’s at least 5.25 litres of it.

Equipment required

› jack › axle stands (or ramp) › oil tray › sockets/spanners (8-32mm) › Torx T20-55 › screwdrivers › pry bar › battery tester › spray grease › penetrating fluid › tyre pump/gauge › torch › torque wrench › clean measuring jug › brake pad thickness gauge › Vernier calipers › antifreeze hydrometer › brake fluid tester › pick

UNDERBONNET CHECKS

1CHECK COOLANT

Make sure the engine is cold before releasing the engine coolant expansion tank pressure cap. Look inside for a max marker and whether the coolant is up to this level. Test the coolant with an antifreeze hydrometer to check its freezing capacity.

2 TOP-UP SCREENWASH

The screenwash reservoir is located in the offside front corner of the engine bay. Top-up with screenwash, not washing-up liquid. Operate the front and rear wipers and washers to check the spray jets are clear and working.

3 LUBE THE LOCKS

Spray a light grease inside the two bonnet locking mechanisms on the top of the slam panel. Remove any leaves and dirt from them. Lubricate all other locks and hinges for the doors and tailgate.

4 TEST BATTERY

Prise off a red plastic cover for the positive terminal and peel the rubber seal away to reveal the earth connection. Check the battery voltage with a multimeter or use a battery tester for a more in-depth check, as shown here.

5 DETACH MAF PLUG

The air filter is contained inside a p

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