ok so after taking the drivers side wiper off, setting the correct blade angle on the spindle then tightening up properly my wipers now seem to be working much better, the motor seems stronger generally - suspect maybe the mechanism was partially siezed through lack of use but much better now
had the rear calipers replaced today and 5.1 brake fluid change - brakes immediately stronger and more progressive, and handbrake now on a nice tight 3-clicks whereas it barely worked before.
engine coolant temp sensor replaced but has made no difference to the slow starting issue when the car is warm. Next stop is fuel pump relay (relay 6) which I'll do this weekend.
all undertray fixings also replaced as they were all rotten.
car driving really nicely and had range after fillup showing as 590 miles last night.