Fear not. Here is our high level methodology to help put your mind at rest that when restarting your pride and joy we have minimised the risks of any damage being caused.
We typically use the below framework for vehicles that haven’t been started for a few years, when the history is not known or if in storage with us haven’t been under our Care Package (which includes our quarterly exercise plan).
First up and perhaps the most common mistake – the engine should not be started. We begin with a visual inspection of the vehicle, both over and under, the surrounding area and inside. The vehicles history file and MOT footprint is also checked for signs of the last service, any quirks or modification we might need to be aware of.
1) Engine:
Drain fuel from tank.
Inspect tank for internal rust.
Fit new fuel filter.
Fit new air filter.
Fit new spark plugs.
When changing plugs squirt lubrication down the bores.
Check along fuel lines and replace any rubber hoses with new E10. compliant items and fit new clamps.
Drain oil from sump.
Fit new oil filter and new oil to manufacturers quantity and recommendation.
Visual inspection for loose wiring, inc HT leads.
Check condition of water hoses – leakage, swollen rubber, general deterioration.
Test voltage in battery.
Isolate ignition system and turn over engine to circulate oil before attempting a start.
Attempt a start and run engine up to temperature, checking for fuel or oil leaks.
Final oil level check.
2) Wipers:
Fit new wiper rubbers.
Check windscreen fluid levels.
Check windscreen spray pattern.
3) Lighting:
Check all lighting and that indicators are functioning.
4) Tyres:
Jack up vehicle and check each wheel for bearing tightness and any play in suspension/steering joints.
Remove wheels, check age date – if over 8 years replace tyres if under 8 years check for cracks, cuts, swelling.
Set to manufacturers pressures.
5) Brakes:
Remove brake pads, place a stop pad (to ensure pistons will not exceed calliper travel) check condition of movement, extended piston/clean and whether the rubber seals have split or perished.
Check on condition of disc for cracks or exceeding of surface wear.
Check pad wear.
Re fit pads.
Drain system and refill with fresh fluid and bleed.
Check hand brake for grip and release.
6) Pre-MOT and MOT test:
Once up and running as safely as possible we then load the vehicle onto the MOT ramp and run a safety pre-MOT and report. Assuming all is well we then carry out the MOT ending with final proof the car is now safe to drive, again! This is an additional stage of the service and is done at cost.
