220 SHAKE DOWN, SO NO BREAKDOWN, AND NOT BUSTED...

I couldn't put it off any longer; the car is booked into the garage for its shake-down. I explained to the mechanic over the phone that we were driving to the South of France in it. He interrupted me to say, "In a Fiat 500?" with a surprised tone. "Yes," I said. "Right," he replied in the same surprised tone...

I explained that the car is running well. The only real issue it has is a squeaky clutch, which, according to the internet, 'often results from a dry, worn throw-out bearing, a dry clutch pivot, or a noisy pedal mechanism. Common fixes include lubricating the pivot points with white lithium grease or addressing the throw-out bearing. While often just needing lubrication, it can indicate a failing clutch kit, especially if accompanied by gear shifting difficulties.'

Thankfully, I have no issues changing gear, but I'm braced for open engine surgery to replace the clutch. It would be a massive pain in the wallet if it needs to be done, and I can't really get out of it. Let's hope for the best, but I'm prepared for the worst.

I've also mentioned that I've bought some red brake callipers while drunk, which should fit. Still, I need trained mechanics to check and fit them.

I promised my mum that Carl and I wouldn't 'have a go' and do this ourselves, as she pointed out that we aren't mechanics and that brakes are really important - she had a point).

With the new callipers hopefully fitted, I've also asked for new pads and discs all round. I received a few brake warning lights on my dashboard a little while back, indicating an issue. It was also mentioned on my last MOT that the discs were worn and could do with being changed.

I smelt burning from my driver's side rear the other week too, which I suspect was due to a partially seized calliper. I have previous experience with this and know that stamping the brake pedal as hard as possible can temporarily unstick the brakes, but it isn't a long-term fix.

Once that lot is done, I've asked for a service, and I might get a fresh MOT too, so everything is done mechanically. After that, I will arrange to have the third-party immobiliser fitted, and then we will be good to go. I just need the graphics now, time for a quick email to the guys at Colour Create for an update...