Segment:
Compact car segment, positioned as an affordable and practical hatchback
Competitors:
Competed directly with vehicles like the Ford Escort, Vauxhall/Opel Astra, Volkswagen Golf, and Peugeot 306
Engine Choice:
Primarily known for its 1.4-litre Rover K-series engine, offering a balance of performance and economy
Handling:
Praised for its compliant ride and predictable handling, especially in its later iterations
Interior Design:
User-friendly dashboard layout and comfortable seating for its class
Primary Coverage:
Full service, repair, maintenance, and troubleshooting for Rover 214 models
Secondary Coverage:
Electrical systems, bodywork, chassis, and accessories
Estimated Pages:
Hundreds (specific count not provided, but described as 'superb Table of Contents' implying extensive detail)
Type:
Service Repair Manual
Engine:
Detailed coverage of the K-series engines, including disassembly, assembly, component testing, and tuning
Fuel System:
MPI (Multi-Point Fuel Injection) system diagnostics, fuel pump, injectors, pressure regulator, and ECU control
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition, coil packs, spark plugs, and ECU control
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, thermostat, water pump, hoses, and coolant specifications
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, and gasket replacement
Transmission:
Manual gearbox (PG1), clutch operation, replacement, and servicing; automatic transmission (optional, if applicable to the 214 designation during those years) may have limited coverage
Brakes:
Front discs, rear drums (or discs on higher trims), hydraulic system, ABS (if fitted), brake fluid specifications, and bleeding procedures
Suspension:
Front MacPherson struts, rear trailing arm suspension, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, and alignment specifications
Steering:
Rack and pinion steering, power steering system (if equipped), fluid types, and components
Electrical System:
Full wiring diagrams, component locations, fuse box layouts, starter motor, alternator, battery, lighting, and auxiliary systems
Bodywork:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, glass replacement, and sealant application
Maintenance:
Scheduled servicing, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, belt checks, and fluid top-ups
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common issues, fault codes (if applicable), and symptom analysis
Repair:
Detailed instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation across all major systems
Rebuild:
Comprehensive engine and transmission rebuild procedures with torque specifications and clearances
Refurbish:
Guidance on restoring worn components and cosmetic enhancements
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic owner maintenance to advanced engine and transmission overhaul
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on diagnostic connectors, fault finding, and interpretation of system behavior
Engine Type:
Rover K-series (likely the 16v 1.4 L variant)
Engine Code:
Likely '14K2F' or similar, specific code depends on exact model year and variant
Bore X Stroke:
73.4 mm x 81.0 mm (typical for 1.4L K-series)
Compression Ratio:
Approximately 10.5:1
Horsepower:
Approximately 75 PS (55 kW) at 5500 rpm, or 105 PS (77 kW) for the 16v variant
Torque:
Approximately 118 Nm (87 lb-ft) at 3000 rpm (for 75 PS variant) or 134 Nm (99 lb-ft) at 4000 rpm (for 105 PS variant)
Induction:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Petrol (95 RON recommended)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (typically OAT or HOAT, check manual for specific recommendation)
Oil Type:
API SG/SH or higher, SAE 10W/40 or 10W/50 (check manual for specific grade based on temperature)
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.0 - 4.5 litres (with filter change, check manual for exact capacity)
Euro Ncap Rating:
No specific Euro NCAP rating available for the XW generation as it predates standardized testing. Later generations received higher ratings.
ABS:
Optional on some models, standard on higher trims during later production years
Traction Control:
Not commonly fitted or standard
Airbags:
Driver airbag standard from mid-1990s onwards, passenger airbag optional
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seatbelts with pre-tensioners (later models), two-point rear lap belts or three-point belts depending on rear seat position
Child Safety:
ISOFIX points may be present on later models; manual will detail relevant fittings
Oil Change Interval:
Every 12 months or 10,000 miles (16,000 km), whichever comes first (check manual for exact recommendation)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000 miles (32,000 km) or 24 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 40,000 miles (64,000 km) for standard plugs, or 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for platinum plugs (check manual)
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical for K-series engines. Typically every 72,000 miles (115,000 km) or 6 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage. Manual will detail inspection and replacement procedure.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II or equivalent (check manual for specific)
Head Gasket Failure:
The K-series engine is known for potential head gasket issues, particularly with the older 'plastic-plaster' gasket design. The manual will likely address inspection and replacement procedures, potentially with upgraded gasket types.
Thermostat Housing Leaks:
Common area for coolant leaks on K-series engines.
Radiator Plastic Tanks:
The plastic tanks on the radiator can become brittle and crack over time, leading to coolant loss.
Parent Company:
Rover Group, formerly British Leyland, ultimately owned by BMW during much of this model's later production
Generation:
This manual covers the second generation Rover 200 Series (codenamed XW), which was a significant redesign from the original 200 Series
Introduction Year:
The XW generation was launched in 1995
Facelifts:
The 200 Series received a facelift in 1998, introducing some updated styling and features. The manual likely covers models from the initial 1995 launch through to the end of production around 2000/2001 for the 200 series, before it was replaced by the Rover 25.
Manufacturing Location:
Longbridge, Birmingham, United Kingdom
Production Years:
1995 - 2000/2001 (for the XW generation 200 Series)
