2017-2024 Mg Zs SUV Maintenance User Manual
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Maintenance for Your Mg Zs SUV First Generation (2017-2024)

Maintenance  
260 Maintenance  
264 Bonnet  
266 Engine Compartment  
268 Engine  
270 Cooling System  
272 Brake  
274 Battery  
276 Washers  
6
278 Wipers  
281 Tyres  
287 Cleaning and Vehicle Care  
MAINTENANCE  
Maintenance  
Service History  
Ensure your local MG Authorised Repairer fills in the  
Service Records after each service.  
Routine Maintenance  
The safety, reliability and performance of your car will  
depend partly on how well it is maintained. You must  
ensure that maintenance is carried out when required and  
according to the information contained in the ‘Service  
Schedule’.  
Brake Fluid Replacement  
Replace the brake fluid according to the information  
contained in the “Service Schedule”.  
Note: Brake fluid replacement will be an additional  
cost.  
Servicing  
For next service information, please refer to "Message  
Centre" in "Instruments and Controls" chapter or  
information related to entertainment system. After the  
completion of each service, the next service display will  
be reset by your MG Authorised Repairer.  
Coolant Replacement  
Replace the engine coolant (mixed solution of antifreeze  
and water) according to the information contained in the  
“Service Schedule”.  
Note: If a service is not carried out (or the display is  
not reset by the local MG Authorised Repairer after  
service), the service display cannot provide correct  
information.  
Note: Coolant replacement will be an additional cost.  
Emission Control  
Your car is fitted with emission and evaporative control  
equipment designed to meet specific territorial and legal  
requirements. Incorrect engine settings may adversely  
affect exhaust emissions, engine performance and fuel  
260  
MAINTENANCE  
consumption, as well as causing high temperatures, which  
could result in damage to the catalytic converters and  
engine.  
Operation of lights, horn, direction indicators, wipers,  
washers and warning lights.  
Operation of seat belts and brakes.  
Look for fluid deposits underneath the car that might  
indicate a leak.  
IMPORTANT  
You should be aware that unauthorised replacement,  
modification or tampering with this equipment by an  
owner or motor vehicle repairer could result in the  
manufacturer’s warranty being deemed as invalid. In  
addition, engine settings must not be tampered with.  
Check tyre appearance.  
Weekly Check  
Engine oil level.  
Coolant level.  
Brake fluid level.  
Windscreen washer fluid level.  
Operate air conditioning.  
Owner Maintenance  
Any significant or sudden drop in fluid levels,  
or uneven tyre wear, should be reported  
without delay. For further information, refer  
to an MG Authorised Repairer.  
Note: The engine oil level should be checked more  
frequently if the car is driven for prolonged periods at  
high speeds.  
6
Special Operating Conditions  
In addition to the routine services referred to previously,  
a number of simple checks must be carried out more  
frequently. You can carry out these checks yourself and  
advice is given on the pages that follow.  
If your car is frequently used in dusty conditions, or  
operated in extreme climates where sub-zero or very  
high ambient temperatures are normal, more frequent  
attention may need to be paid to servicing requirements.  
Daily Checks  
261  
MAINTENANCE  
You need to carry out special maintenance operations  
(refer to Service Portfolio or contact your MG Authorised  
Repairer).  
NEVER leave the engine running in an unventilated area  
- exhaust gases are poisonous and extremely dangerous.  
DO NOT work underneath the car with a wheel  
changing jack as the only means of support.  
Ensure that sparks and naked lights are far away from  
the engine compartment.  
Safety in the Garage  
Cooling fans may commence operating after  
the engine is switched off, and continue  
operating for a number of minutes. Keep  
clear of all fans while working in the engine  
compartment.  
Wear protective clothing and work gloves.  
Remove watches and jewelry before working in the  
engine compartment.  
DO NOT allow tools or metal parts of the car to make  
contact with the battery leads or terminals.  
If you need to carry out maintenance, observe the  
following safety precautions at all times:  
Toxic Liquid  
Keep your hands and clothing away from drive belts and  
pulleys.  
Fluids used in motor vehicles are poisonous and should not  
be consumed or brought into contact with open wounds.  
These include: battery acid, coolant, brake fluid, power  
steering fluid, fuel, engine oil and windscreen washer  
additives.  
If the car has been driven recently, DO NOT TOUCH  
exhaust and cooling system components until the engine  
has cooled.  
DO NOT TOUCH electrical leads or components  
while the engine is running, or with the ignition switch  
on.  
For your own safety, ALWAYS read and observe all  
instructions printed on labels and containers.  
262  
MAINTENANCE  
Used Engine Oil  
Prolonged contact with engine oil may cause serious skin  
disorders, including dermatitis and cancer of the skin.  
Wash thoroughly after contact. Used engine oil should  
be disposed of correctly. Incorrect disposal can cause a  
threat to the environment.  
6
263  
MAINTENANCE  
Bonnet  
1
2
From the inside of the vehicle, pull the bonnet release  
handle (Figure A).  
Opening the Bonnet  
Move the safety catch release handle on the bonnet  
lock assembly in the direction of the arrow (Figure B)  
to release the bonnet safety catch.  
DO NOT drive when the bonnet is not closed  
or retained only by the safety catch.  
3
Raise the bonnet and hold it up with the support rod  
firmly.  
Closing the Bonnet  
Support the bonnet by one hand, release the support rod  
using the other hand, and place it firmly into the support  
rod base. Then hold the bonnet using both hands and  
lower it, allowing it to drop for the last 20 cm30 cm  
to fully close the bonnet.  
By attempting to lift the front edge of the bonnet, check if  
the lock is fully engaged after closing the bonnet. If it is not  
fully engaged, you must repeat the operation.  
Bonnet Open Warning  
If the bonnet is not fully engaged, when the vehicle  
power system is in the ON/RUNNING position, the  
264  
MAINTENANCE  
corresponding alarm icon will be displayed in the  
information message centre of the instrument pack. If  
it is detected that the bonnet is not fully engaged whilst  
driving, an audible warning will sound.  
IMPORTANT  
For safety reasons, the bonnet should be fully latched  
and secure when driving. Therefore every time the  
bonnet is opened, you must check after closing that  
the bonnet is securely latched, e.g. the bonnet edge  
is flush with the body of the car.  
You should stop the car immediately when safety  
permits and close the bonnet if it is not closed fully  
when driving.  
Ensure the bonnet is supported manually when  
removing the bonnet support rod, failure to support  
the panel will result in the panel falling down causing  
injury or vehicle damage.  
6
Beware of injury to hands while fully closing the  
bonnet with a downward force.  
265  
MAINTENANCE  
Engine Compartment  
1.5L Engine Compartment  
While working in the engine compartment, always observe the safety precautions listed under ‘Safety in  
the Garage’, refer to ‘Maintenance’ in ‘Maintenance’ section.  
1
2
3
4
5
Washer fluid reservoir (blue cap)  
Engine oil filler cap (black cap)  
Brake fluid reservoir (yellow cap)  
Engine oil dipstick (yellow)  
Coolant reservoir (black cap)  
266  
MAINTENANCE  
1.0L Turbocharged Engine Compartment  
While working in the engine compartment, always observe the safety precautions listed under ‘Safety in  
the Garage’, refer to ‘Maintenance’ in ‘Maintenance’ section.  
1
2
3
4
5
Washer fluid reservoir (blue cap)  
Engine oil filler cap (black cap)  
Brake fluid reservoir (yellow cap)  
Engine oil dipstick (yellow)  
Coolant reservoir (black cap)  
6
267  
MAINTENANCE  
Engine  
Engine Oil Level Check and Top Up  
Driving the vehicle with the engine oil level  
ABOVE the upper mark, or BELOW the lower  
mark on the dipstick, will damage the engine.  
Take care to avoid spilling engine oil onto a  
hot engine – a fire may result!  
Engine Oil  
ACEA Classification of Engine Oils  
European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA)  
will classify the engine oils based on performance and  
quality. To ensure the best performance of the vehicle,  
please only use engine oils that are recommended by  
the manufacturer (see "Technical Data" - ‘Recommended  
Fluids and Capacities’.  
If you are operating the vehicle in extreme temperature  
conditions please consult your MG Authorised Repairer  
for advice.  
1.5 L Engine  
268  
MAINTENANCE  
2
3
Slowly insert the oil dipstick and pull it out again to  
check the oil level; the oil level shall not be lower than  
the "MIN" mark on the oil dipstick.  
Clean off any debris that may have collected around  
the oil filler cap area. Unscrew the oil filler cap and  
refill the oil to maintain the oil level between the  
"MAX" mark and "MIN" mark on the oil dipstick.  
4
5
Wait for 5 minutes and then recheck the oil level,  
adding more oil if necessary – DO NOT OVERFILL!  
Finally, ensure the dipstick and filler cap are replaced.  
Engine Oil Specification  
Use the engine oil recommended and certified by the  
1.0 T Engine  
manufacturer.  
Refer to "Recommended Fluids and  
6
Capacities" in "Technical Data" section.  
Note: DO NOT use any oil additives.  
IMPORTANT  
Check the oil level weekly and top up with oil when  
necessary. Ideally, the oil level should be checked with the  
engine cold and the car resting on level ground. However,  
if the engine is running and already getting warm, wait for  
at least five minutes after switching off the START/STOP  
Switch before checking the level.  
Check the engine oil more frequently if the vehicle is  
driven at high speeds for prolonged periods.  
1
Withdraw the dipstick and wipe the blade clean.  
269  
MAINTENANCE  
Cooling System  
It is recommended that the cooling system should be  
checked weekly when the cooling system is cold and with  
the car resting on level ground. If the level is below the  
‘MIN' mark, remove the expansion tank cap and top up  
coolant, the level must not be higher than ‘MAX' mark.  
Coolant Check and Top Up  
DO NOT remove the engine coolant reservoir  
cap when the cooling system is hot - escaping  
steam or hot coolant could cause serious  
injury.  
Note: Prevent coolant coming into contact with the  
vehicle body when topping up. Coolant will damage  
paint.  
If the coolant level falls appreciably during a short period,  
the cooling system leakage may occur, please have it  
serviced in time by a local MG Authorised Repairer.  
Coolant Specification  
Please use the coolant recommended and certified by  
the manufacturer. Refer to ‘Recommended Fluids and  
Capacities’ in "Technical Data" chapter.  
Note: In an emergency, top up the coolant reservoir  
with a small amount of clean water. However, it should  
be noted that this will weaken the anti-freeze and  
anti-corrosion protection and reduce the service life  
270  
MAINTENANCE  
of the coolant. DO NOT refill the cooling system with  
anti-freeze of different formulations.  
Note: The addition of corrosion inhibitors or other  
additives to the cooling system of this car may severely  
disrupt the efficiency of the system and cause engine  
damage. For cooling system issues please consult an  
MG Authorised Repairer.  
Antifreeze Fluid  
Coolant is poisonous and can be fatal if  
swallowed - keep coolant containers sealed  
and out of the reach of children. If accidental  
contact of coolant by children is suspected,  
seek medical assistance immediately.  
6
Prevent coolant coming into contact with the  
skin or eyes. If this occurs, rinse immediately  
with plenty of water. If eyes are still red,  
painful or uncomfortable, seek medical  
attention immediately.  
271  
MAINTENANCE  
Brake  
Brake Fluid Check and Top Up  
Brake fluid is highly toxic, keep containers  
sealed and out of the reach of children. If  
accidental contact of brake fluid is suspected,  
seek medical attention immediately.  
Brake Pads  
DO NOT rest your foot on the brake pedal  
while driving; this may overheat the brakes,  
reduce their efficiency and cause excessive  
wear.  
Prevent brake fluid coming into contact  
with the skin or eyes. If this occurs, rinse  
immediately with plenty of water. If eyes  
are still red, painful or uncomfortable, seek  
medical attention immediately.  
For the first 900 miles (1500 km), you should avoid  
situations where heavy braking is required.  
Remember that regular servicing is vital to ensure that  
all the brake components are examined for wear at the  
correct intervals, and replaced when required to ensure  
long term safety and optimum performance during the  
interval prescribed in Service Portfolio.  
The brake fluid level should be checked weekly when the  
system is cold and with the car on level ground.  
The fluid level can be seen through the reservoir neck  
and should be maintained as close to the "MAX" mark  
as possible. Do not allow the level to drop below the  
"MIN"mark.  
The car needs to run in for 500 miles (800 km) after the  
brake pad or disc is replaced.  
Note: Brake fluid will damage painted surfaces. If  
you accidentally spill the brake fluid on the painted  
surface, soak up any spillage with an absorbent cloth  
272  
MAINTENANCE  
immediately and wash the area with water or car  
shampoo.  
IMPORTANT  
Replace brake fluid regularly according to the Service  
Portfolio.  
6
Brake Fluid Specification  
Use the brake fluid recommended and approved by  
the manufacturer. Refer to "Recommended Fluids and  
Capacities" in the "Technical Data" section.  
273  
MAINTENANCE  
Battery  
You can see the battery when you open the engine  
compartment. The battery is maintenance-free type,  
therefore there is no need to refill fluid.  
Battery Maintenance  
DO NOT leave electric components switched  
Note: If the vehicle is stored for more than 1 month,  
remove the negative terminal from the battery. Make  
sure that the START/STOP switch has been turned  
off before connecting or disconnecting the negative  
terminal. When connecting the negative terminal  
again, the vehicle must be left in a locked state for 4  
hours to re-calibrate the battery condition. Failure to  
adhere to this will inhibit the stop/start functionality.  
on when the engine is not running, the  
battery may become flat and you will not be  
able to start the engine.  
Battery Replacement  
The battery contains sulphuric acid, which is  
corrosive.  
The battery contains sulphuric acid, which is corrosive.  
Please go to an MG Authorised Repairer to remove and  
install the battery. Only fit a replacement battery of the  
same type and specification as the original to maintain the  
correct vehicle functionality.  
274  
MAINTENANCE  
The battery must be disposed of using an approved  
method, used batteries can be harmful to the environment.  
It should be recycled by a professional company. Please  
consult an MG Authorised Repairer for more details.  
6
275  
MAINTENANCE  
Washers  
Windscreen Washer Check and Top Up  
When filling the washer fluid, DO NOT  
let the washer fluid spill on parts in the  
compartment or on the paint surface of  
vehicle body. In case the washer fluid is  
spilled on hands or other parts of the body,  
please immediately wash with clean water.  
IMPORTANT  
Check the washer fluid level regularly. When the level  
of washer fluid is low, please top up the washer fluid as  
instructed.  
Use the washer fluid recommended and certified by  
the manufacturer. Misuse of washer fluid in winter  
may cause damage to the washer pump due to  
freezing.  
Note: DO NOT use anti-freeze or vinegar/water  
solution in the washer reservoir - anti-freeze will  
damage paintwork while vinegar will damage the  
washer pump.  
Using the washers when there is no washer fluid may  
cause damage to the washer pump.  
Operating the wipers when the windshields are dry  
and there is no washer fluid may cause damage to  
the windshields and wipers. Please spray the washer  
fluid and start the wipers when there is adequate  
washer fluid.  
276  
MAINTENANCE  
Washer Nozzles  
Operate the washers periodically to check that the nozzles  
are clear and properly directed.  
If the nozzle is obstructed, insert a needle or thin metal  
wire into the hole to remove the obstruction.  
Washer Fluid Specification  
Use the washer fluid recommended and certified by  
the manufacturer. Refer to ‘Recommended Fluids and  
Capacities'.  
6
277  
MAINTENANCE  
Wipers  
Wiper Blades  
IMPORTANT  
Grease, silicon and petrol based products impair the blade's wiping capability. Wash the wiper blades in warm soapy  
water and periodically check their condition.  
Clean the windscreen frequently, DO NOT use wipers to remove stubborn or ingrained dirt, it will reduce their  
effect and their life span.  
If signs of hardness or cracking in the rubber are found, or if the wipers leave streaks or unwiped areas on the screen,  
then the wiper blades should be replaced.  
Clean the windscreen regularly with an approved glass cleaner and ensure the screen is thoroughly cleaned before  
fitting replacement wiper blades.  
Only fit replacement wiper blades that are identical to the original specification.  
Clean ice and snow from around wipers and ensure they are not frozen or otherwise sticking to the windscreen  
before attempting to operate them.  
278  
MAINTENANCE  
Replacing Front Wiper Blades  
3
Press the retaining clips at both sides (as shown in  
the figure), whilst pulling the wiper blade outward,  
to remove the wiper blade from the wiper arm and  
discard.  
4
5
Position the fitting of the new wiper blade into the slot  
of the wiper arm.  
Push the wiper blade towards the wiper arm until it is  
located embedded with a click been heard.  
6
7
Place the wiper assembly back on the windscreen.  
To exit the service mode and return the wipers to the  
park position, operate the wiper stalk switch again by  
pressing down and releasing, alternatively, switch the  
vehicle power system to the ON position.  
6
1
2
With the bonnet closed, and within 20 seconds  
of switching the vehicle power system to the OFF  
position, operate the wiper stalk switch by pressing  
down and releasing, the wipers will sweep and stop in  
the 'service position' on the windscreen.  
Lift the wiper arm away from the windscreen.  
279  
MAINTENANCE  
Replacing Rear Wiper Blades  
4
Place the wiper assembly back on the rear window.  
1
2
Lift the wiper arm away from the rear window.  
Rotate the wiper blade as shown in the figure, to  
remove it from the wiper arm and discard.  
3
Position the fitting of the new wiper blade into the slot  
of the wiper arm. Ensure the wiper blade is properly  
secured on the wiper arm.  
280  
MAINTENANCE  
Tyres  
speed and in a prudent way at the first 300 miles (500  
kilometres), which is also beneficial to the service life of  
the tyres.  
Overview  
Take extra care when using new tyres for the first 300  
miles (500 kilometres).  
The damage of tyre or rim may happen unnoticed. If  
abnormal vibration or handling is experienced, that means  
the tyre or rim may have been damaged. Please slow down  
and park your vehicle in absolute safety, then check the  
tyre and rim. If you can't see the damage from the outside,  
you should continue to drive with low speed and go to the  
nearest MG Authorised Repairer for inspection.  
Avoid excessive cornering at speed.  
Slow down when passing through road shoulder or a  
similar section, and allow the wheels to go through the  
shoulder at the right angle as far as possible.  
Regularly check the damage of tyres (stabs, scratches,  
cracks and pits) and remove any foreign objects from  
the tread.  
Directional Tyres  
Prevent the tyre from contacting oil, grease and fuel.  
Ensure valve caps are always fitted.  
Directional tyres are marked with ‘direction of rotation'  
(DOR). To maintain handling characteristics, tyre  
performance, low road noise and extend tyre life, tyres  
must always be fitted with indication arrow showing the  
correct ‘DOR'.  
If the tyre is to be removed always mark the tyre/wheel  
orientation to ensure correct reinstallation.  
The wheels or tyres that have been disassembled should  
be kept in a cool, dry and light-free place.  
6
Tyre Life  
New Tyres  
Correct tyre pressure and moderate driving style can  
extend tyre life.  
New tyres may not have the best adhesive ability at the  
beginning. Therefore, driving your vehicle at moderate  
Recommendations:  
281  
MAINTENANCE  
If the vehicle is to be stored for a lengthy time, please  
move your vehicle at least once in two weeks to ‘rotate  
the tyres'.  
Wheel Balance  
The working balance of auto-wheels is well tested before a  
new vehicle comes out of the factory. But the wheels may  
be out of balance due to many factors.  
Check the pressure of tyres regularly when they are  
cold.  
If wheels are out of balance, shaking or vibration of the  
steering mechanism may occur and the tyres may be  
excessively worn. It is important to rectify this quickly.  
Each wheel should be rebalanced after installing a new tyre  
or having the tyre repair.  
Avoid cornering at excessive speed.  
Regularly check tyres for abnormal wear patterns.  
These following factors may affect the tyre life.  
Tyre Pressure  
Incorrect pressure will cause the abnormal wear of the  
tyre, greatly shorten the service life, and have an adverse  
effect on the driving characteristics of the vehicle. Tyre  
pressure should be checked at least once a month, and  
once prior to each long-distance journey.  
Wheel Alignment  
Incorrect wheel alignment can cause excessive tyre wear  
and affect vehicle safety. If the tyres show signs of abnormal  
wear, seek advice from an MG Authorised Repairer.  
Caring for Your Tyres  
Driving Style  
DEFECTIVE TYRES ARE DANGEROUS!  
DO NOT drive if any tyre is damaged, is  
excessively worn, or is inflated to an incorrect  
pressure.  
Excessively harsh acceleration and braking you may hear  
a piercing noise) or driving at high speed whilst cornering  
will increase the wear of tyre.  
282  
MAINTENANCE  
Always drive with consideration for the condition of the  
tyres, and regularly inspect the tread and side walls for any  
sign of distortion (bulges), cuts or wear.  
Punctured Tyres  
If a sharp object penetrates the tyre and remains in it, the  
tyre may not leak. If you are aware of this occurring, reduce  
speed immediately and drive with caution until the spare  
wheel can be fitted, or repairs undertaken.  
Note: If possible, protect tyres from contamination by  
oil, grease and fuel.  
Note: If the sidewall of the tyre is damaged or  
distorted, replace the tyre immediately, do not  
attempt a repair.  
Tyre Pressure  
Before a long distance journey, the tyre  
pressure must be checked.  
Tyre Wear Indicators  
Check the pressure (including the spare wheel) at least  
once a month, when the tyres are cold.  
At the bottom of the original tyre, there is a 1.6 millimeter  
high wear mark perpendicular to the wheel rolling  
direction. These indicators moulded into the tread pattern  
at several points around the circumference. A mark on  
the side of a tyre, such as the upper case letter TWI or  
the triangle, indicating the position of the wear mark.  
If it is necessary to check the tyre pressure when they are  
warm, you should expect the pressure to have increased by  
0.3 to 0.4 bar (4.35 to 5.8 psi). In this circumstance, NEVER  
let air out of the tyres in order to match the recommended  
pressure (cold).  
6
When the tread has worn down to 1.6 millimeter, the  
indicators will come to the surface of the tread pattern,  
producing the effect of a continuous band of rubber across  
the width of the tyre.  
Valves  
Keep the valve caps screwed down firmly - they prevent dirt  
from entering the valve. Check the valve for leaks (listen  
for a tell-tale hissing) when you check the tyre pressure.  
283  
MAINTENANCE  
Replacement Tyres  
It is recommended to install the tyres  
consistent with the original specifications.  
DO NOT replace the tyres with tyres of any  
other type. Alternative tyres, of a different  
specification, may adversely affect the  
vehicle's driving characteristics and safety. In  
order to make your driving and safety better  
guarantee, it is suggested that you consult an  
MG Authorised Repairer.  
Always have replacement wheels and tyres balanced before  
use.  
IMPORTANT  
Wheel Fitment Rotation  
A tyre MUST be replaced as soon as a wear indicator  
becomes visible.  
It is not recommended that you swap wheels from side  
to side or front to rear in order to equalise tyre wear.  
Your vehicle is fitted with Tyre Pressure Monitoring System  
which means that each wheel is programmed to the relative  
position.  
284  
MAINTENANCE  
The tyre/snow chains can only be fitted on the front  
wheels;  
The thickness of tyre/snow chains shall not exceed 15  
mm;  
Please always observe the installation and tension  
instructions for the tyre/snow chains, as well as the  
speed limitations of different roads;  
DO NOT drive faster than 30 mph (50 km/h) ;  
To avoid the tyre damage and excessive wear of  
the tyre/snow chains, the tyre/snow chains must be  
removed while driving on the road without snow.  
The wheel and tyre specifications for the  
tyre/snow chains apply to this model are as  
follows:  
If you do wish to swap wheels and tyres around on the  
vehicle please consult an MG Authorised Repairer as extra  
coding will be required.  
6
Wheel rim size: 6.5J×16  
Snow Chains  
Tyre size: 205/60 R16  
Unsuitable snow chains could damage the tyres, wheels,  
suspension, brakes or bodywork of your car.  
Note: Snow chains are only allowed to be fitted  
to tyres of the specifications recommended by the  
manufacturer.  
Please pay attention to the following requirements in the  
usage:  
285  
MAINTENANCE  
Note: If you drive on roads covered with snow or ice,  
it is recommended to use winter tyres. Consult an MG  
Authorised Repairer for details.  
286  
MAINTENANCE  
Cleaning and Vehicle Care  
When using a hose, DO NOT aim the water directly  
at window, door or sunroof seals, or through wheel  
apertures onto the brake components.  
Observe all safety precautions on cleaning  
products; do not drink fluids and keep them  
away from the eyes.  
If the car is particularly dirty, use a hose to flush grime and  
grit from the bodywork, prior to washing. Then, wash the  
car using cold or lukewarm water containing a good quality  
wash and wax shampoo. Always use plenty of water to  
ensure that grit is flushed from the surface and not ground  
into the paintwork. After washing, rinse the bodywork  
with clean water and dry off with a chamois leather.  
External Car  
Washing Your Car  
Some high pressure cleaning systems will  
penetrate door, window and sunroof seals,  
and damage lock mechanisms. DO NOT aim  
water jets directly at components that might  
be easily damaged.  
Cleaning the underside  
Note: DO NOT use a high pressure hose to clean the  
engine compartment – damage to the car’s electronic  
systems may occur.  
Do not clean the engine compartment with  
high pressure water since it may damage the  
electrical system of the vehicle.  
6
From time to time, but particularly during winter months  
when salt has been used on the roads, use a hose to wash  
the underside of the car. Flush away accumulations of mud  
and thoroughly clean those areas where debris can easily  
collect (wheel arches and panel seams, for example).  
In order to preserve the paint finish on your car, please  
observe the following care points:  
DO NOT use hot water to wash the car.  
DO NOT use detergents or washing up liquid.  
In hot weather, DO NOT wash the car in direct sunlight.  
287  
MAINTENANCE  
IMPORTANT  
IMPORTANT  
Avoid cleaning the vehicle in direct sunlight.  
Please pay attention to the operating instructions of  
high pressure cleaner.  
When cleaning the vehicle in winter avoid spraying  
water directly onto door locks and panel gaps due  
to risk of icing.  
Soft parts on the vehicle should be kept in a large  
enough distance from the high pressure cleaner.  
Do not use rough sponges or cloth to clean the car,  
this will damage the paintwork finish.  
Removing tar spots  
When cleaning the headlamps do not use a dry cloth  
or sponge, use only warm soapy water.  
Use white spirit to remove tar spots and stubborn grease  
stains from the paintwork. Then wash the area immediately  
with soapy water to remove all traces of the spirit.  
Cleaning with a High Pressure Cleaner  
Body Protection  
Note: Always read the manufacturers operating  
instructions.  
After washing, examine the paintwork for damage. If the  
damage has revealed bare metal, use a colored primer first,  
then apply the correct colour base coat and finish off with  
a lacquer pencil, if appropriate. Carry out this treatment  
after washing but before polishing or waxing. More  
extensive damage to paint or bodywork must be repaired  
in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.  
Failure to do this will invalidate the Anti-Corrosion  
Warranty. If in doubt, ask your MG Authorised Repairer.  
When using high pressure washers, always ensure there is  
adequate distance between the spray nozzle and any soft  
materials, decals or rubber seals.  
288  
MAINTENANCE  
Polishing the Paintwork  
DO NOT use car polish containing coarse  
Windows and Mirrors  
Regularly clean all windows, inside and out, using an  
approved glass cleaner.  
abrasives – these will remove the paint film  
and damage the gloss finish.  
Windscreen:In particular, clean the outside of the screen  
with glass cleaner after washing the car with wash and wax  
products, and before fitting new wiper blades.  
Occasionally treat the paint surface with an approved polish  
containing the following properties:  
Very mild abrasives to remove surface contamination  
without removing or damaging the paint.  
Filling compounds that will fill scratches and reduce  
their visibility.  
Rear screen:Clean the inside with a soft cloth, using a side  
to side motion to avoid damaging the heating elements.  
Note: DO NOT scrape or use abrasive cleaners on the  
inside of the rear screen – this will damage the heating  
elements.  
Wax to provide a protective coating between the paint  
and the elements.  
Mirrors:Wash with soapy water. Use a plastic scraper to  
remove ice. DO NOT use abrasive cleaning compounds  
or metal scraper.  
Note: If possible, avoid applying polish or wax  
products to window glass and rubber seals.  
6
Wiper Blades  
Plastic Components  
Wash in warm soapy water. DO NOT use spirit or petrol  
based cleaners.  
Any plastic components should be cleaned using  
conventional cleaning methods and not be treated with  
abrasive materials.  
289  
MAINTENANCE  
Paint Damage  
Cleaning the Interior  
Plastic materials  
Any paint damage or stonechips should be treated with  
suitable paint/lacquer materials immediately to avoid  
invalidating the Anti Corrosion Warranty.  
Clean plastic-faced materials with diluted upholstery  
cleaner, then wipe with a damp cloth.  
Weather Strips and Rubber Seals  
Note: DO NOT polish dashboard components – these  
should remain non-reflective.  
Any weather strips or rubber aperture seals should be  
treated with suitable materials (silica gel) if they are cleaned  
using strong detergents, this should avoid any sticking and  
maintain the service life of the seal.  
Carpet and fabrics  
Clean with diluted upholstery cleaner - test a concealed  
area first.  
Wheels  
Leather  
When cleaning the wheels any materials or  
water that contact the brake disc directly  
may effect braking efficiency.  
Clean leather trim with warm water and a non-detergent  
soap. Dry and polish the leather with a dry, clean, lint-free  
cloth.  
In order to ensure the wheels are kept in optimum  
condition they should be cleaned regularly.  
Note: DO NOT use petrol, detergents, furniture  
creams or polishes as cleaning agents.  
Only use a recommended non-acidic propriety wheel  
cleaner. Always read the instructions on the product.  
290  
MAINTENANCE  
Instrument Pack, Audio and Navigation Display  
Extend the belts, then use warm water and a non-detergent  
soap to clean. Allow the belts to dry naturally; DO NOT  
retract them or use the car until they are completely dry.  
Clean with a dry cloth only. DO NOT use cleaning fluids  
or sprays.  
Airbag Module Covers  
DO NOT allow these areas to be flooded with  
liquid and DO NOT use petrol, detergent,  
furniture cream or polishes.  
To protect damage to the airbag SRS, the following  
areas should be cleaned sparingly with a damp cloth and  
upholstery cleaner ONLY:  
Steering wheel centre pad.  
Area of dashboard containing the passenger airbag.  
Area of roof lining and front pillar finishers which  
enclose the side head impact protection modules.  
6
Seat Belts  
DO NOT use bleaches, dyes or cleaning  
solvents on seat belts.  
291  

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