Rover 214-414. Service Repair Manual - part 13

5 Refitting is the reverse of the removal
procedure.

Models with airbag (SRS)

6 Remove the ignition key and wait at least
ten minutes to allow the SRS system backup
circuit to fully discharge. Disconnect both
battery leads, earth lead first, to avoid
accidental detonation of the airbag.
7 Set the steering in the dead-ahead position
then lock the steering column in its lowest
position. 

8 Remove the airbag unit.
9 Remove the steering wheel, see Chap-
ter 10.
10 Remove the five fusebox cover securing
screws and release the cover from the facia
(see illustration).
11 Remove the three screws securing the
lower half of the steering column shroud,
release the two clips securing the front of the
shroud, then separate the two halves of the
shroud, manoeuvring each one clear of the
column (see illustration).
12 Disconnect the four multiplugs from the
combination switch (see illustration). 
13 Remove the four screws securing the slip
ring to the combination switch, remove the
ring from the column and place it to one side
whilst taking care not to allow it to hang from
its wiring.
14 Remove the indicator cancelling cam (see
illustration).
15 Each individual switch can be removed by
unscrewing its two retaining screws and
sliding the switch out of the housing.
16 To remove the complete combination
switch, slacken and remove the two retaining
screws and slide the switch off the steering
column.
17 Refitting is the reverse of the removal
procedure.
18 Upon completion of refitting the airbag
unit, reconnect both battery leads, negative
lead last, and turn the ignition switch to the

“II” position.  Check the condition of the
system by observing the SRS warning light
located in the steering wheel centre pad.
The light should stay illuminated for 
3 seconds whilst the system performs a self-
diagnosis test. If the test is satisfactory, the
light will extinguish. If the test is
unsatisfactory, the light will remain on or 
fail to illuminate at all, denoting that the
system must be serviced as soon as
possible.

Instrument panel and facia
switches

19 Check that the switch is in the off
position, then taking great care not to scratch
or damage the switch or its surround, prise it
out using a suitable flat-bladed screwdriver.
Withdraw the switch until the connector plug
appears then disconnect the wiring connector
and remove the switch (see illustrations). Tie
a piece of string to the wiring connector 
to prevent it from falling behind the facia
panel.
20 On refitting, connect the wiring connector
to the switch and press the switch into
position until the retaining clips click into
place.

Electrically-operated window
switches

21 Remove the door inner trim panel.

12•6 Body electrical systems

4.19b  . . . and disconnect wiring

connectors

4.19a  Carefully prise facia switches out of

position . . .

4.14  Steering column switch assembly

A

Indicator cancelling cam

B

Column switch screws

C

Column switch assembly

D

Combination switch screws

4.12  Disconnect four multiplugs (arrowed)

from combination switch

4.11  Remove screws (A), release clips (B)

and separate two halves of 

shroud (C and D)

4.10  Remove fusebox cover securing

screws (arrowed)

4.3b  . . . and sliding switch out of main

assembly

1689 Rover 214 & 414 Updated Version 09/97

22 Undo the retaining screws and remove
the switch from the trim panel (see
illustration).
23 On refitting tighten the switch screws
securely.

Courtesy lamp switches

24 With the door open, undo the two screws
securing the switch to the body. Pull out the
switch and tie a piece of string to the wiring to
prevent it dropping into the body.
25 Disconnect the switch and remove it from
the vehicle.
26 Refitting is a reverse of removal.

Handbrake warning lamp 
switch

27 From inside the vehicle, carefully prise out
the cover from the top of the centre console
rear section to gain access to the two
retaining screws. Undo the two screws and
remove the rear centre console section.
28 Disconnect the wiring connector from the
switch, then slacken and remove the retaining
screw and remove the switch from the
handbrake lever quadrant (see illustration).
29 Refitting is a reverse of the removal
procedure.

Horn push switch

Models without airbag (SRS)

30 Using the flat of a screwdriver, carefully
prise the horn button out of the centre of the
steering wheel (see illustration).
31 Disconnect the wire from each button
terminal and remove the button (see
illustration).
32 Refitting is a reverse of the removal
procedure. Test the horn on completion.

Models with airbag (SRS)

33 Remove the airbag unit, noting all
precautions.
34 Detach the earth wire from the steering
wheel (see illustration).
35 Disconnect the Lucar connector from the
steering wheel connection.
36 Remove each horn button by carefully
using the flat blade of a small screwdriver to
lever it from position.

37 Detach the two electrical connectors from
the button and remove it. 
38 Refitting is the reversal of removal, noting
the following:
a)

Take care to ensure that wiring is not
trapped between mating surfaces.

b)

Refit the airbag unit, carrying out the
system check.

c)

Test the horn after refitting each button.

5

Bulbs (exterior lamps) -
renewal

1

General

1 Whenever a bulb is renewed, note the
following:
a)

Disconnect the battery negative lead
before starting work.

b)

Remember that if the lamp has just been
in use, the bulb may be extremely hot.

c)

Always check the bulb contacts and
holder, ensuring that there is clean metal-
to-metal contact between the bulb and its
live contacts and earth. Clean off any
corrosion or dirt before fitting a new bulb.

d)

Wherever bayonet-type bulbs are fitted,
ensure that the live contacts bear firmly
against the bulb contact.

e)

Always ensure that the new bulb is of the

correct rating and that it is completely
clean before fitting. This applies
particularly to headlamp bulbs.

Headlamp

2 Working in the engine compartment, twist
off the relevant circular plastic cover and
remove it from the rear of the headlamp unit
(see illustration).
3 Unplug the wiring connector, then press
together the ears of the bulb retaining clip and

Body electrical systems  12•7

4.30  Prise horn button from steering 

wheel . . .

4.28  Handbrake warning lamp switch

retaining screw (A) and wiring 

connector (B)

4.22  Driver’s side window switch retaining

screws (arrowed)

5.2  Remove large circular cover to access

dip/main beam bulb and sidelamp bulbs

and smaller cover (arrowed) to access

individual main beam bulb

4.34  Disconnect earth wire (A) and Lucar

connector (B), then lever button from

position and detach electrical 

connectors (C)

4.31   . . . and disconnect wire from each

button terminal

12

1689 Rover 214 & 414 Updated Version 09/97

release it from the rear of the lamp (see
illustration).
4 Withdraw the bulb.
5 When handling a new bulb, use a tissue or
clean cloth to avoid touching the glass with
the fingers. Moisture and grease from the skin
can cause blackening and rapid failure of this
type of bulb.

6 Refitting is the reverse of the removal
procedure. Ensure that the new bulbs locating
tabs are correctly located in the lamp cutouts.

Front sidelamp

7 Working in the engine compartment, twist

off the large circular plastic cover and remove
it from the rear of the headlamp unit (see
illustration 5.2).
8 Pull the bulbholder from the headlamp
reflector.
9 Pull the capless (push fit) bulb out of its
socket.
10 Refitting is the reverse of the removal
procedure.

Front direction indicator

11 Working in the engine compartment, undo
the indicator lamp upper retaining screw and
withdraw the lamp (see illustration).
12 Twist the bulbholder in an anti-clockwise
direction to free it from the lamp and remove it
from the lamp unit (see illustration).
13 The bulb is a bayonet fit in the holder and
can be removed by pressing it and twisting in
an anti-clockwise direction (see illustration).

14 Refitting is a reverse of the removal
procedure.

Front direction indicator side
repeater

15 Push the lamp unit towards the right to
free its retaining clips then withdraw it from
the wing (see illustration).
16 Pull the bulbholder out of the lamp unit
then pull the capless (push fit) bulb out of its
holder (see illustration).
17 Refitting is a reverse of the removal
procedure.

Rear lamp cluster

18 From inside the luggage compartment,
remove the relevant rear cover from the lamp.
19 Depress the catches and withdraw the
bulb panel from the lens unit (see illustration).
20 The relevant bulb can then be removed
from the panel. The tail lamp bulb is of the
capless (push fit) type, whereas all other bulbs
have a bayonet fitting (see illustrations).
21 Refitting is the reverse of the removal
sequence. Note that the rubber seal must be
renewed if damaged.

Number plate lamps

22 Undo the two mounting screws and
remove the number plate lamp lens and seal.
23 Withdraw the lamp and remove the clip

12•8 Body electrical systems

5.20a  Rear lamp cluster

A

Direction indicator

D Tail lamp

B

Reversing lamp

E Stop lamp

C

Foglamp

5.19  Depress catches and withdraw rear

lamp bulb panel

5.16  . . . then withdraw lamp and pull out

bulbholder

5.15  Push indicator side repeater lamp to

right . . .

5.13  Indicator bulbs are of bayonet type

5.12  . . . then withdraw indicator lamp and

twist bulbholder free

5.11  Remove retaining screw . . .

5.3  Headlamp dip/main beam bulb wiring

connector (A), retaining clip (B) and

sidelamp bulbholder (C)

1689 Rover 214 & 414 Updated Version 09/97

If the glass of a headlamp
bulb  is accidentally
touched, wipe it clean using
methylated spirit.

from the top of the lamp body to gain access
to the bulb.
24 The bulb is of the capless (push fit) type
and can be pulled out of the lamp unit.
25 Refitting is a reverse of the removal
procedure.

6

Bulbs (interior lamps) -
renewal

2

General

1 Refer to Section 5.

Courtesy lamps

2 Carefully prise the lens off the lamp unit
then remove the festoon bulb from its end
contacts.
3 Fit the new bulb using a reversal of the
removal procedure. Check the tension of the
spring contacts and if necessary, bend them
so that they firmly contact the bulb end caps.

Glovebox lamp

4 Open up the glovebox and undo the two
switch/lamp assembly retaining screws.
Disconnect the wiring connector and remove
the switch/lamp unit from the glovebox.
5 Depress the lens retaining lug and remove
the lens assembly from the unit.
6 Release the festoon bulb from its contacts
and remove it from the lens.
7 Fit the new bulb using a reversal of the
removal procedure. Check the tension of the
spring contacts and if necessary, bend them
so that they firmly contact the bulb end caps.

Luggage compartment lamp

8 Carefully prise the lamp out of the trim
panel using a suitable flat-bladed screwdriver.
9 The bulb is a bayonet fit and can be
removed by pressing it in and twisting anti-
clockwise (see illustration).
10 Refitting is a reverse of the removal
procedure.

Instrument panel illumination
and warning lamps

11 Remove the instrument panel.
12 Twist the relevant bulbholder (see
illustration) anti-clockwise and withdraw it
from the rear of the panel.

Body electrical systems  12•9

6.9  Luggage compartment lamp bulb is of

bayonet type

5.20c  . . . whereas all other bulbs have

bayonet type fitting

5.20b  Rear cluster tail lamp bulb is of

capless type . . .

6.12  Instrument panel assembly

1

Panel rear illumination
bulbs

2

ABS warning lamp bulb
(where fitted)

3

Boot open warning lamp
bulb

4

Hazard warning lamp bulb

5

Brake fail/handbrake
warning lamp bulb

6

Direction indicator
warning lamp bulb

7

Main beam warning lamp
bulb

8

Oil pressure warning lamp
bulb

9

Ignition/charging lamp
warning bulb

10 Choke warning lamp bulb

- carburettor models

11 Caravan/trailer indicator

warning lamp bulb

12 Printed circuit
13 Coolant temperature

gauge

14 Tachometer
15 Speedometer

16 Fuel gauge
17 Left-hand support bracket
18 Right-hand support

bracket

19 Illumination panel cover
20 Illumination panel printed

circuit

21 Panel front illumination

bulb

22 Tripmeter reset knob
23 Instrument panel cover
24 Instrument panel case

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1689 Rover 214 & 414 Updated Version 09/97

13 All bulbs, with the exception of the main
panel illumination bulb, are integral with their
holders. The main panel illumination bulb is of
the capless type and is a push fit in its holder
(see illustrations). Be very careful to ensure
that the new bulbs are of the same rating as
those removed as this is especially important
in the case of the ignition/battery charging
warning lamp.
14 Refitting is the reverse of the removal
procedure.

Facia illumination bulbs

15 To renew the various facia illumination
bulbs, it will first be necessary to remove the
relevant facia panel to gain access to the
bulb.

Switch illumination bulbs

16 All of the facia panel switches are fitted

with illuminating bulbs. Some are also fitted
with a bulb to show when the circuit
concerned is operating. These bulbs are an
integral part of the switch assembly and
cannot be obtained separately. Bulb
replacement will therefore require renewal of
the complete switch assembly.

7

Exterior lamp units - 
removal and refitting

4

Note: Disconnect the battery negative lead
before removing any lamp unit, and reconnect
the lead after refitting the lamp.

Headlamp

1 Open up the bonnet, then undo the four
screws securing the radiator grille to the

headlamps and remove the grille from the
vehicle.
2 Remove the screw securing the indicator
lamp assembly to the wing and position the
lamp unit clear of the headlamp assembly.
3 Undo the two headlamp retaining screws
situated behind the indicator lamp and undo
the two upper headlamp retaining bolts (see
illustrations).
4 Disconnect the headlamp wiring connector
(see illustration).
5 Gently pull the headlamp upwards to
release it from its lower retainer, then remove
the headlamp and lower finisher trim panel
assembly from the vehicle.
6 If necessary, the lower finisher can be
removed from the headlamp by removing the
retaining screw and releasing the two
retaining clips.
7 Refitting is a reversal of the removal
procedure. On completion adjust the
headlamp beam.

Front direction indicator

8 Open up the bonnet and remove the
indicator lamp upper retaining screw.
9 Withdraw the lamp unit from the wing, then
twist the bulbholder in an anti-clockwise
direction to free it from the lamp and remove
the lamp unit from the vehicle.
10 Refitting is the reverse of the removal
procedure.

Front direction indicator side
repeater

11 Push the lamp unit towards the right to
free its retaining clips then withdraw it from
the wing.
12 Pull the bulbholder out and remove the
lamp from the vehicle.
13 Refitting is a reverse of the removal
procedure.

Rear lamp cluster

14 Working from within the luggage
compartment, remove the relevant rear lamp
cover and disconnect the lamp wiring
connector 

(see illustration).

15 Undo the four nuts securing the lamp unit
to the body and remove the unit from the
vehicle. Note the rubber seal which is fitted
between the lamp unit and body (see
illustration).

12•10 Body electrical systems

7.15  Withdraw rear lamp unit noting

rubber seal

7.14  Disconnect wiring connector (A) and

remove rear lamp unit retaining nuts (B)

7.4  Disconnecting headlamp wiring

connector

7.3b  . . . and two headlamp retaining bolts

7.3a  Remove headlamp retaining screws

(remaining one arrowed) . . .

6.13b  . . . bulb being of capless type

6.13a  Instrument panel illumination

bulbholder is a twist fit in panel . . .

1689 Rover 214 & 414 Updated Version 09/97

16 Refitting is a reversal of the removal
procedure. The rubber seal must be renewed
if damaged.

Number plate lamps

17 Undo the two mounting screws and
remove the number plate lamp lens and seal.
18 Withdraw the lamp unit until the wiring
connector appears then disconnect the
connector and remove the unit from the
vehicle.
19 Refitting is the reverse of the removal
procedure. The rubber seal must be renewed
if damaged.

8

Headlamp beams - alignment

Refer to Chapter 1.

9

Dim-dip headlamp system -
operation

1 This system comprises the dim-dip unit
(mounted behind the right-hand lower facia
panel) and a resistor (situated behind the left-
hand headlamp assembly).
2 The dim-dip unit is supplied with current
from the sidelamp circuit and energised by a
feed from the ignition switch. When
energised, the unit allows battery voltage to
pass through the resistor to the headlamp

dipped-beam circuits. This lights the
headlamps with approximately one-sixth of
their normal power so that the vehicle cannot
be driven using sidelamps alone.

10 Instrument panel - 

removal and refitting

2

Removal

1 Working in the engine compartment,
disconnect the battery negative lead, then
unscrew the union nut which secures the
upper and lower sections of the speedometer
cable together.
2 Position the steering column in its lowest
possible height setting then, using a suitable
flat-bladed screwdriver, carefully prise out the
switch assembly from the left-hand side of the

instrument panel shroud. Disconnect the
switch wiring connector and remove the
switch assembly (see illustrations).
3 On models equipped with an electrically-
operated sunroof, repeat the above operation
for the sunroof switch.
4 On models without an electrically-operated
sunroof, carefully prise out the cover from the
right-hand lower corner of the instrument
shroud (see illustration).
5 Remove the four instrument panel shroud
retaining screws and remove the shroud from
the facia (see illustrations).
6 Undo the four screws securing the
instrument panel to the facia and carefully
withdraw the panel until access can be gained
to the rear of the panel. Release the
speedometer cable retaining clip then
disconnect the cable and three wiring block
connectors from the panel (see illustrations).

Body electrical systems  12•11

10.4  On models without electric sunroof,

remove cover from right-hand side of

instrument panel shroud

10.2b  . . . then withdraw assembly and

disconnect wiring connectors

10.2a  Carefully prise left-hand switch

assembly out of instrument panel shroud . . .

10.6b  . . . then disconnect speedometer

cable . . .

10.6a  Remove instrument panel upper

(arrowed) and lower retaining screws . . .

10.5b  Remove upper retaining screws . . .

10.5a  Instrument panel shroud lower

retaining screws are accessed through

switch apertures

10.5c  . . . then withdraw instrument panel

shroud

12

1689 Rover 214 & 414 Updated Version 09/97

7 Remove the instrument panel from the facia
(see illustration).

Refitting

8 Refitting is a reverse of the removal
procedure. On completion, check the
operation of all panel warning lamps and
instrument shroud switches to ensure that
they are functioning correctly.

11 Instrument panel

components - removal and
refitting

2

1 Remove the instrument panel then proceed
as described under the relevant sub heading.

Instrument illumination panel

Removal

2 Remove the screws securing the right and
left-hand upper mounting brackets to the
panel assembly and remove both brackets
(see illustrations).
3 Release the rear illumination panel
bulbholder by twisting it in an anti-clockwise
direction, then remove the illumination panel
from the top of the instruments (see
illustration).

Refitting

4 Refitting is a reversal of the removal
procedure.

Instruments

Removal

5 Remove the instrument illumination panel.
6 Release the instrument panel cover
retaining clips and lift the cover off the
instrument panel case (see illustration).
7 Individual instruments can now be removed
separately by unscrewing their retaining
screws (see illustrations). When removing
the speedometer, note the foam washer
which is fitted around the base of the
instrument stalk.

Refitting

8 Refitting is a reversal of the removal
procedure.

Printed circuit

Removal

9 Remove the speedometer, tachometer, 
fuel gauge and temperature gauge from 
the meter case as described in paragraphs 5
to 7.
10 Remove all bulbholders from the rear of
the case by twisting them in an anti-clockwise
direction, then release the printed circuit 
from its retaining pins and remove it from the
case.

Refitting

11 Refitting is a reverse of the removal
sequence.

12•12 Body electrical systems

11.7b  . . . and remove relevant instrument

from panel case (temperature gauge shown)

11.7a  Remove retaining screws (remaining

two arrowed) . . .

11.6  Release retaining clips and separate

instrument panel case and cover

11.3  Removing instrument illumination

panel

11.2b  . . . and remove upper mounting

brackets from instrument panel

11.2a  Unscrew retaining screws . . .

10.7  . . . and withdraw instrument panel

from facia

10.6c  . . . and wiring connectors . . .

1689 Rover 214 & 414 Updated Version 09/97

12 Cigar lighter - 

removal and refitting

1

Removal

1 Disconnect the battery negative lead.
2 Remove the lighter element, then carefully
prise out the metal surround, followed by the
plastic body. Note the wiring connections
before disconnecting them and tie a piece of
string around the connector to prevent the
wire from falling back inside the facia.

Refitting

3 Refitting is the reverse of the removal
procedure.

13 Clock - 

removal and refitting

1

Removal

1 Disconnect the battery negative lead.
2 Using a suitable flat-bladed instrument,
carefully prise out the clock mounting trim
strip from the facia. Withdraw the trim and
disconnect the wiring connector from the rear
of the clock. Tie a piece of string around the
connector to prevent it from falling back
inside the facia (see illustrations).
3 Undo the two clock retaining screws and

remove the clock from the trim strip (see
illustration).

Refitting

4 Refitting is a reversal of the removal
procedure.

14 Multi-function unit -

operation, removal and
refitting

2

Operation

1 The multi-function unit (MFU) is mounted
onto the rear of the fusebox, which is located
behind the right-hand lower facia panel. The
unit controls the following functions:
a)

Front and rear wiper system delay
intervals.

b)

Heated rear window timer.

c)

Courtesy lamp delay.

d)

Lamps-on warning bleeper.

2 The MFU also has a self diagnostic mode
where it checks out all the relevant circuits it
controls.
3 To start the diagnostic sequence, press the
heated rear window switch and turn on the
ignition switch on simultaneously. Release the
heated rear window switch as soon as the
ignition switch is turned on, the MFU should
then bleep to indicate it has entered its
diagnostic mode, then press the heated rear
window switch for a second time. Subsequent

operations of the interior lamp switches, wiper
switches and headlamp switch will result in a
bleep from the MFU as it receives a signal. If
the unit does not bleep, a fault is indicated in
the relevant circuit. A third press on the
heated rear window switch will enter the MFU
into the second stage of its diagnostic
sequence. The MFU will now operate each of
its functions in turn starting with the heated
rear window, followed by the front and rear
wipers and finally the courtesy lamp will
operate for approximately two seconds if
there are no faults. When all checks are
complete, turn the ignition switch off to take
the MFU out of its diagnostic sequence.
4 If a fault appears in one of the circuits
controlled by the MFU, then check the
relevant relay (where fitted) and wiring. If this
fails to locate the fault, it is likely that the MFU
is at fault. The MFU is a sealed unit and must
be renewed even if only one of its control
functions is faulty.

Removal

5 Disconnect the battery negative terminal.
6 Undo the five retaining screws and remove
the right-hand lower facia panel (see
illustration).
7 Release the left-hand fuse panel from the
side of the main fusebox and disconnect the
two wiring block connectors from the front of
the fusebox (see illustrations).
8 Remove the two fusebox retaining nuts
then partially withdraw the fusebox until the

Body electrical systems  12•13

13.3  Removing clock retaining screws

(remaining one arrowed)

13.2b  . . . and disconnect clock wiring

connector

13.2a  Carefully prise out clock mounting

trim strip . . .

14.7b  . . . and disconnect wiring

connectors from front of fusebox

14.7a  Release left-hand fuse panel . . .

14.6  Remove retaining screws (arrowed)

and withdraw right-hand lower facia panel

12

1689 Rover 214 & 414 Updated Version 09/97

upper wiring block connector(s) can be
disconnected (see illustration).
9 Carefully turn the fusebox assembly around
and disconnect the block connector from the
MFU. Release the MFU from the rear of the
fusebox and remove it from the vehicle (see
illustrations).

Refitting

10 Refitting is a reversal of the removal
procedure. Ensure that all wiring connectors
are correctly refitted. On completion,
reconnect the battery terminal and check that
all electrical circuits function correctly.

15 Supplementary Restraint

System (SRS) - operation

1 At vehicle start-up, a warning light located
in the steering wheel centre pad will illuminate
when the system electrical circuits are
activated by turning the ignition switch to
position “II” and will stay illuminated for 
3 seconds whilst the system performs a self-
diagnosis test. If this test is satisfactory, the
light will extinguish. If the test is
unsatisfactory, the light will remain on or fail to
illuminate at all, denoting that the system
must be serviced as soon as possible. System
operation is as follows:
2 Upon the vehicle suffering a frontal impact
over a specified force, a sensor inside the
airbag control unit, which is located in the
steering wheel centre, activates the system. A
sensor (fitted to discriminate between actual
impact and driving on rough road surfaces,
etc.) is also activated and power is supplied to
the airbag ignitor from the battery or a backup
circuit, causing the airbag to inflate within 
30 milliseconds.
3 As the driver of the vehicle is thrown foward
into the inflated airbag it immediately
discharges its contents through a vent,
thereby providing a progressive deceleration
and reducing the risk of injury from contact
with the steering wheel, facia or windscreen.
The total time taken from the start of airbag
inflation to its complete deflation is
approximately 0.1 seconds.

16 Supplementary Restraint

System (SRS) - component
removal and refitting

2

Warning: Under no
circumstances, attempt to
diagnose problems with SRS
components using standard
workshop equipment.

Note: For safety reasons, owners are strongly
advised against attempting to diagnose
problems with the SRS using standard
workshop equipment.  The information in this
Section is therefore limited to those
components in the SRS which must 
be removed to gain access to other
components on the vehicle. Read carefully the
precautions given in Section 1 of this Chapter 
before commencing work on any part of the
system.

Note: All SRS system wiring can be identified
by its yellow protective covering.

Airbag unit

Removal

1 Remove the ignition key and wait at least
ten minutes to allow the system backup
circuit to fully discharge. Disconnect both
battery leads, earth lead first, to avoid
accidental detonation of the airbag.
2 Remove the two airbag unit retaining
screws which are accessed from behind the
steering wheel (see illustration).
3 Carefully prise the airbag unit away from
the steering wheel to gain access to its wiring
behind. Do not allow the unit to hang from its
wiring.
4 Unplug the wiring connector from the 
rear of the airbag unit and carefully remove
the unit from the vehicle, placing it in safe
storage.

Refitting

5 Refit the airbag unit by reversing the
removal procedure, noting the following:
a)

The cable connector must face
uppermost when refitted to the airbag
unit.

b)

Observe the specified torque wrench
setting when tightening the airbag
retaining screws (TX30 Torx type) 
and take care not to cross-thread 
them. 

c)

With the airbag unit in position, press
either side of the steering wheel to allow
the ridge on the wheel to engage in the
groove of the airbag unit.

d) Reconnect both battery leads, negative

lead last, and turn the ignition switch to
the “II” position. Check the condition of
the system by observing the SRS
warning light located in the steering
wheel centre pad. The light should stay
illuminated for 3 seconds whilst the
system performs a self-diagnosis test. If
the test is satisfactory, the light will
extinguish. If the test is unsatisfactory,
the light will remain on or fail to
illuminate at all, denoting that the 
system must be serviced as soon as
possible.

Airbag control unit

Removal

6 Remove the airbag unit.

12•14 Body electrical systems

16.2  Remove retaining screws (A) to

release airbag unit (B)

14.9b  . . . and disconnect wiring connector

14.9a  Release Multi-Function Unit from

rear of fusebox . . .

14.8  Fusebox retaining nuts (arrowed)

1689 Rover 214 & 414 Updated Version 09/97

7 Disconnect the control unit multiplug and
Lucar connection (see illustration).
8 Detach the SRS warning light from the
steering wheel.
9 Remove the three screws securing the
control unit to the steering wheel.
10 Release the SRS warning light wiring
harness and remove the control unit.

Refitting

11 Refit the control unit by reversing the
removal procedure, noting the following:
a)

If the control unit is to be renewed, then
the bar code on the new item must be
recorded by your Rover dealer.

b)

Take care to ensure that wiring is not
trapped between mating surfaces.

c)

Observe the specified torque wrench
setting when tightening the control unit
retaining screws (TX20 Torx type) and
take care not to cross-thread them. 

d)

Refit the airbag unit, carrying out the
system check.

Slip ring

Removal

12 Set the steering in the straight-ahead
position.
13 Remove the airbag unit.
14 Refer to Chapter 10 and remove the
steering wheel, followed by the steering
column nacelle.
15 Disconnect the airbag wiring harness
multiplug from the underside of the slip ring
(see illustration).
16 Remove the four screws securing the ring
to the column switch assembly and remove
the ring from the vehicle.

Refitting

17 Refit the slip ring by reversing the removal
procedure, noting the following:
a)

If the slip ring is to be renewed, then the
bar code on the new item must be
recorded by your Rover dealer.

b)

Take care to ensure that wiring is not
trapped between mating surfaces.

c)

Refit the airbag unit, carrying out the
system check.

Airbag link harness

Removal

18 Remove the ignition key and wait at least
ten minutes to allow the SRS system backup
circuit to fully discharge. Disconnect both
battery leads, earth lead first, to avoid
accidental detonation of the airbag.
19 Remove the airbag unit.
20 Set the steering in the straight-ahead
position then lock the steering column in its
lowest position. 
21 Remove the five fusebox cover 
securing screws and release the cover from
the facia.
22 Remove the three screws securing the
lower half of the steering column shroud and
manoeuvre the lower half of the shroud clear
of the column.
23 Disconnect the SRS multiplug from the
main wiring harness (see illustration).
24 Release the SRS fuse from the side of the
main fusebox.
25 Detach the SRS harness multiplug from
the slip ring.
26 Release the cable tie securing the wiring
harness to the steering column and remove
the harness from the vehicle.

Refitting

27 Refit the harness by reversing the removal
procedure, noting the following:
a)

Take care to ensure that the harness is
correctly routed and not trapped between
mating surfaces.

b)

Check all wiring connectors are firmly
fastened  

c)

Refit the airbag unit, carrying out the
system check.

17 Speedometer drive cable -

removal and refitting

2

1 The speedometer drive cable is in two
parts. The lower cable runs from the gearbox
to a point just below the fuel filter, while the
upper cable runs from that point to the rear of
the instrument panel.

Upper cable

Removal

2 Remove the instrument panel and make a
note of the correct routing of the speedometer
cable.
3 Working in the engine compartment,
release the cable sealing grommet from the
engine compartment bulkhead and withdraw
the cable section from the bulkhead.

Refitting

4 If a new cable is being fitted, transfer the
grommet from the old cable to the new item.
5 Have an assistant feed the cable in through
the engine compartment bulkhead whilst
checking from inside the vehicle that the cable
is following the correct route behind the
demister duct, over the pedal mounting
bracket and through the steering column
support bracket.
6 With the cable correctly routed, refit the
sealing grommet to the bulkhead then draw
the cable through until the coloured tape 
on the outer cable abuts the sealing grommet.
7 Refit the instrument panel then reconnect
the speedometer cable sections and 
tighten the union nut securely.

Lower cable

Removal

8 Apply the handbrake then jack up the front
of the vehicle and support it on axle stands to
improve access to the lower end of the cable.

Body electrical systems  12•15

16.23  Disconnect SRS multiplug from

main harness (A), SRS fuse (B), 

SRS multiplug from slip ring (C) and 

cable tie (D)

16.15  Disconnect SRS wiring harness

multiplug (A), remove slip ring securing

screws (B) and remove slip ring (C)

16.7  Disconnect Lucar connection and

multiplug (A), SRS warning light (B),

remove control unit securing screws (C)

and release SRS warning light wiring

harness (D)

12

1689 Rover 214 & 414 Updated Version 09/97

9 Pull out the rubber retaining pin which
secures the lower end of the cable in position
then withdraw the cable from the gearbox.
10 Slacken the union nut securing the upper
and lower cable sections together, then
disconnect the two cable sections (see
illustration).
11 Release the lower cable from any relevant
retaining clips or ties and remove it from the
vehicle. Remove the O-rings from the lower
end of the cable and discard them as these
should be renewed whenever disturbed (see
illustration).

Refitting

12 Lubricate the cable lower end fitting O-
rings with engine oil and insert the end fitting
into the gearbox. Refit the rubber retaining pin
to secure the cable in position.
13 Ensure the cable section is correctly
routed and is retained by any necessary
clamps or ties.
14 Connect the upper cable to the lower
cable and tighten the union nut securely.
Lower the vehicle to the ground.

18 Horn - 

removal and refitting

4

Removal

1 Disconnect the battery negative terminal.
2 Remove the front bumper.
3 Disconnect the horn wiring connectors and
unbolt the horn(s) from the body (see
illustration).

Refitting

4 Refitting is a reversal of the removal
procedure.

19 Windscreen/tailgate wiper

blades and arms - 
inspection and renewal

Refer to “Weekly Checks”.

20 Windscreen/headlamp

washer system - inspection
and adjustment

Refer to “Weekly Checks”.

21 Windscreen/tailgate washer

system components -
removal and refitting

1

1 The windscreen washer reservoir is situated
in the rear left-hand corner of the engine

compartment, with the washer system pump
being mounted on the side of the reservoir.
On 214 models, the reservoir is also used to
supply the tailgate washer system via a
second pump (see illustration).

Removal

2 To remove the washer reservoir and
pump(s), unscrew the mounting nut and bolts
and lift the reservoir from the left-hand corner
of the engine compartment.
3 Disconnect the wiring connector(s) from the
pump(s) then disconnect the plastic tubing
from the reservoir and remove the assembly
from the vehicle.

12•16 Body electrical systems

21.1  Windscreen/tailgate washer system components

18.3  Horn wiring connectors (A) and

retaining bolt (B)

17.11  Lower speedometer cable O-rings

(arrowed) must be renewed

17.10  Slacken union nut and disconnect

two speedometer cable sections

1689 Rover 214 & 414 Updated Version 09/97

1

Windscreen washer
tube T-piece
connector

2

Windscreen washer
tube

3

Reservoir cap

4

Reservoir mounting
nut

5

Reservoir mounting
bolt

6

Washer pump
retaining clip

7

Reservoir mounting
bolt

8

Wiring connector

9

Windscreen washer
pump

10 Seal
11 Washer reservoir
12 Wiring connector*
13 Tailgate washer

pump*

14 Seal*
15 Tailgate washer

tube*

16 Non-return valve*
*

Fitted to 214 models
only

4 Empty the reservoir of any remaining fluid
then undo the retaining screws and separate
the pump(s) and reservoir.
5 If necessary, the windscreen washer
nozzles can carefully be prised out of the
ventilation grille and disconnected from the
tubing. On 214 models, prise the washer jet
out and remove it from the tailgate (see
illustration).
6 If trouble is experienced at any time with
the flow to the tailgate washer, check that the
non-return valve is not blocked. The valve is
fitted in the tube next to the reservoir and
should allow fluid to pass only outwards to the
jet.

Refitting

7 Refitting is a reversal of removal. Ensure
that the washer tubes are not trapped when
refitting the reservoir and note that the
connectors for the pumps are colour-coded to
aid correct reconnection on reassembly.

22 Windscreen wiper motor and

linkage - removal and refitting

2

Removal

1 Operate the wiper motor then switch it off
so that the wiper blades return to the rest
position.
2 Stick a piece of masking tape on the
windscreen alongside the edge of each wiper
blade to use as an alignment aid on refitting,
then open the bonnet.
3 Slacken and remove the wiper arm spindle
nuts and pull the arms off their spindles (see
illustrations). If necessary, the arms can be
levered off their spindles by using a large flat-
bladed screwdriver.
4 Carefully prise out the seven trim caps from
the ventilation grille to gain access to the grille
retaining screws. Slacken and remove all 
the retaining screws then release the eight
retaining clips situated along the front edge of
the grille and remove the grille from the
vehicle (see illustration).
5 Using a large flat-bladed screwdriver,

Body electrical systems  12•17

22.3b  . . . and remove wiper arms from

spindles

22.3a  Slacken spindle nuts . . .

21.5  Removing tailgate washer jet - 

214 models

22.4  Windscreen wiper motor and linkage assembly

1 Ventilation grille
2 Sealing strip
3 Trim cap
4 Screw
5 Retaining clip
6 Wiper arm spindle nut
7 Wiper arm
8 Wiper blade
9 Spindle cap

10 Dust seal
11 Right-hand spindle

assembly

12 Connecting rod
13 Operating rod
14 Bolt
15 Spindle cap
16 Dust seal
17 Left-hand spindle

assembly

18 Dust seal
19 Wiper motor mounting

bolt

20 Mounting rubber
21 Spacer
22 Water shield
23 Wiper motor crank arm
24 Spring washer
25 Nut
26 Dust seal
27 Wiper motor
28 Mounting rubber
29 Spacer

12

1689 Rover 214 & 414 Updated Version 09/97

carefully lever the wiper linkage arm off the
wiper motor crank arm balljoint.
6 Disconnect the wiring connector from the
wiper motor and remove the four bolts
securing the motor to the bulkhead, then
remove the motor from the engine
compartment taking care not to lose its
mounting rubbers (see illustration).
7 Remove the three bolts securing the right-
hand wiper arm spindle in position then, using
a large flat-bladed screwdriver, disconnect
the linkage rod from the spindle balljoint and
remove the spindle assembly.
8 Disconnect the two linkage rods from the
left-hand wiper arm spindle assembly
balljoints and remove the rods.
9 Undo the three left-hand wiper arm spindle
retaining bolts and remove the spindle
assembly.

Refitting

10 Refitting is a reversal of the removal
procedure, noting the following:
a)

Examine the wiper motor mounting
rubbers for signs of damage or
deterioration and renew if necessary.

b)

Tighten the wiper arm spindle assembly
and wiper motor mounting bolts to the
specified torque and ensure all linkage
balljoints are pressed firmly together.

c)

Ensure the wiper arm spindles are clean
then align the wiper blades with the tape
fitted on removal and press the arms
firmly onto the spindles. Tighten the 
wiper arm spindle nuts to the specified
torque.

23 Tailgate wiper motor -

removal and refitting

2

Removal

1 Operate the wiper motor, then switch it off
so that the wiper blade returns to the rest
position.
2 Stick a piece of masking tape alongside the
edge of the wiper blade to use as an
alignment aid on refitting.

3 Prise off the wiper arm spindle nut cover
then slacken and remove the wiper arm
spindle nut and pull the arm off its spindle
(see illustration). If necessary, the arm can
be levered off using a large flat-bladed
screwdriver.
4 Undo the spindle retaining nut then remove
the toothed washer and rubber seal (see
illustrations).
5 Open up the tailgate and undo the two
screws securing the tailgate inner trim panel
to the tailgate. Carefully prise out the screw
retaining plugs.
6 Using a large flat-bladed screwdriver, work
around the outside of the trim panel and
carefully prise it away from the tailgate to free
all its retaining clips. Once all retaining clips
have been freed, remove the trim panel.
7 Disconnect the wiring connector and undo
the bolts securing the wiper motor to the
tailgate (see illustration). Remove the motor
from the tailgate, noting the motor mounting
rubbers and the washer and rubber seal fitted
to the wiper spindle.

Refitting

8 Refitting is a reverse of the removal
procedure, noting the following:
a)

Examine the wiper motor mounting
rubbers and spindle seals for signs of
damage and deterioration and renew if
necessary.

b)

Tighten the wiper motor mounting bolts to
the specified torque.

c)

Ensure the wiper arm spindle is clean,
then align the wiper blade with the tape
fitted on removal and press the arm firmly
onto the spindle. Tighten the wiper arm
spindle nut to the specified torque and
refit the nut cover.

24 Radio/cassette player -

removal and refitting

1

Note: The following removal and refitting
procedure is for the range of radio/cassette
units which Rover fit as standard equipment.
Removal and refitting procedures of non-
standard units may differ slightly.

Removal

1 Referring to the instructions supplied with
the radio/cassette unit, temporarily de-
activate the security code.
2 Disconnect the battery negative lead.
3 To remove the unit, two standard DIN
extraction tools are required. These are two
U-shaped rods which are inserted into the
four small holes in the front of the unit to
release the unit retaining clips. The tools may
possibly be obtained from a Rover dealer or
any audio accessory outlet, or can be made
out of 3.0 mm wire rod, such as welding rod.
Using the tools, push back the clamps on the
left and right-hand sides, withdraw the unit

12•18 Body electrical systems

23.7  Tailgate wiper motor mounting bolts

(arrowed)

23.4b  . . . and withdraw toothed washer

and rubber seal

23.4a  Unscrew wiper spindle retaining 

nut . . .

23.3  Removing cover to reveal tailgate

wiper arm spindle nut

22.6  Windscreen wiper motor mounting

bolts (arrowed - lower bolt hidden)

1689 Rover 214 & 414 Updated Version 09/97

and disconnect the wiring plugs and aerial
(see illustrations).

Refitting

4 Refitting is the reverse of the removal
procedure. On completion, connect the
battery negative terminal and reactivate the
security code.

25 Speakers - 

removal and refitting

2

Removal

Front speaker

1 Remove the front door inner trim panel.
2 Undo the three speaker retaining screws

then withdraw the speaker. Disconnect the
speaker wiring connectors and remove the
speaker from the door (see illustrations).

Rear speaker - 214 models

3 Prise off the trim cap from the rear seat belt
upper mounting point, then slacken and
remove the two seat belt guide retaining bolts.
4 Open up the tailgate, then remove the four
screws securing the speaker grille panel and
position the panel clear of the speaker (see
illustration).
5 Undo the four speaker retaining screws
then lift out the speaker. Disconnect the
wiring connectors and remove the speaker
from the vehicle (see illustration).

Rear speaker - 414 models

6 Working from inside the luggage
compartment, disconnect the speaker wiring

connections and undo the three nuts securing
the speaker to the parcel shelf (see
illustration).
7 The speaker can then be lifted away from
the parcel shelf from inside the vehicle.

Refitting

8 Refitting is a reverse of the removal
procedure.

26 Radio aerial - 

removal and refitting

2

Removal

1 Remove the radio/cassette player.
2 Undo the five screws securing the right-
hand lower facia panel and remove the panel
to gain access to the relay mounting bracket.
Remove the relay mounting bracket retaining
bolt.
3 Trace the aerial lead back along its length
and free it from any retaining clips or ties. Tie
a long piece of string around the aerial end
plug.
4 Undo the two screws securing the aerial to
the roof and remove the aerial and sealing
rubber. Carefully withdraw the aerial lead until
the plug comes out of the aerial aperture then
untie the string and leave it in position in the
vehicle.

Refitting

5 Securely tie the string around the aerial lead
plug and fit the rubber seal to the aerial.
6 From inside the vehicle, gently pull the
string through the radio aperture whilst
feeding the aerial lead in through the roof.
When the aerial lead plug emerges on the
inside of the vehicle, untie the string.
7 Ensure the rubber seal is correctly located
on the base of the aerial then tighten the aerial
retaining screws securely.
8 Refit the aerial lead to the necessary
retaining clips and ties then refit the relay
mounting bracket and right-hand lower facia
panel. Tighten all retaining screws and bolts
securely.
9 Refit the radio/cassette unit.

Body electrical systems  12•19

25.2a  Slacken three retaining screws . . .

24.3b  . . . then withdraw radio/cassette

unit and disconnect aerial and wiring

connectors

24.3a  Use DIN tools to release retaining

clips . . .

25.6  Rear speaker retaining nuts (A) and

wiring connectors (B) - 414 models

25.2b  . . . withdraw speaker from door and

disconnect wiring connectors

25.5  Rear speakers are retained by four

screws - 214 models

25.4  Rear speaker grille panel retaining

screws (arrowed) - 214 models

12

1689 Rover 214 & 414 Updated Version 09/97

12•20 Wiring diagrams

1689 Rover 214 & 414 Updated Version 09/97

Notes, fuses and key to wiring diagrams

Wiring diagrams  12•21

12

1689 Rover 214 & 414 Updated Version 09/97

Key to wiring diagrams (continued)

12•22 Wiring diagrams

1689 Rover 214 & 414 Updated Version 09/97

Internal connection details, wire colours and key to symbols

Wiring diagrams  12•23

12

1689 Rover 214 & 414 Updated Version 09/97

Diagram 1: Starting, charging, ignition (carburettor models), cooling fan, warning lamps and gauges. All models

12•24

Wiring diagrams

1689 Rover 214 & 414 Updated Version 09/97

Diagram 1a: Modular engine management - single point injection

Wiring diagrams  12•25

12

1689 Rover 214 & 414 Updated Version 09/97

Diagram 2: Exterior lighting - sidelamps and headlamps. All models

12•26

Wiring diagrams

1689 Rover 214 & 414 Updated Version 09/97

Diagram 2a: Exterior lighting - signal/warning lamps. All models

Wiring diagrams  12•27

12

1689 Rover 214 & 414 Updated Version 09/97

Diagram 2b: Interior lighting and associated circuits. All models

12•28

Wiring diagrams

1689 Rover 214 & 414 Updated Version 09/97

Diagram 3: Ancillary circuits - wash/wipe, heater blower and heated rear window. All models

Wiring diagrams  12•29

12

1689 Rover 214 & 414 Updated Version 09/97

Diagram 3a: Ancillary circuits - electric windows, mirrors and central locking

12•30

Wiring diagrams

1689 Rover 214 & 414 Updated Version 09/97

Diagram 4: Anti-lock braking system

Wiring diagrams  12•31

12

1689 Rover 214 & 414 Updated Version 09/97

Diagram 5: In-car entertainment and electric sunroof