Car advice with Honest John – your questions answered

Sydney, Sussex

I will be going to Australia for six weeks and my VW Golf Mk7 will remain at an off-site car park near Gatwick Airport. Should it be parked in any particular way to avoid problems on my return? OG

In gear, parking brake off. If the accessory socket is hard-wired to the battery, it might make sense to connect a small solar panel charger and leave it on the dash top. That might make the difference between a flat battery and a first time start on your return.

Bitter lemon

In September 1974 my wife purchased a new Morris Mini Clubman, finished in citron with navy trim. After 43 years the Mini is still in good condition, having done 80,000 miles. No car repair company will remove a few scratches and rust patches, however, because the citron paint cannot be matched. Have you any suggestions? And how much might it be worth? RB

If you sell it’s best to advertise at the Mini Club website, britishminiclub.co.uk. The club might also be able to help with your paint problem.

Ringo stir

I recently received a parking ticket, which I paid by Ringo. I have been able to download proof of payment from my phone. The debt collection agency will not go away and threatens me with proceedings, which I fear are imminent. I have explained the situation over the telephone but they ignore me. I don’t want to be registered as a bad debt. Can you help? SM

They can't legally register you as a bad debt unless the case has gone to the county court and a ruling has been made in their favour. Appraise them of this fact and tell them that if they do not either take you to court or cease harassing you, you will report them to the police for the criminal offences of harassment and fraud.

Property is thrift

We have a 2013 Nissan Qashqai 1.6 dCi 130 that gives 60mpg plus on a long run. What can we do to keep the diesel particulate filter soot-free as the car gets older? AG

You're doing well, because I have the same engine in a Kadjar and that's only averaging 49mpg, maybe because it's 4WD. Change the oil at least every 10,000 miles or every 12 months, whichever comes first. Dirty oil kills DPFs and engines. Use superdiesel and don't do a lot of short runs from cold starts, especially in winter.

Damper squib

I recently purchased a 2013 VW Golf (12,000 miles) and am told there is oil mist on both nearside shock absorbers, so they should be replaced soon. The garage says this is a common fault and that I should replace all four shock absorbers. What do you say? RS

That's outrageous. If this is the supplying dealer, tell them unequivocally you want four new dampers fitted free of charge because the fault was obviously present before your purchase and that renders them liable to fix it, or else refund your money. I am starting to get more reports of prematurely failed dampers on VW Group cars.

Big Multimac

We are looking for a car that will accommodate three child seats across the back. We have a budget of £35,000. WB

The answer to this regular problem is a Multimac triple (or quadruple) car seat that will fit across the back seat of most cars, so you can buy something you really want: visit the multimac.co.uk website.

Heavy mettle

I drive a 2009 Volvo XC60 and tow a 21-foot steam launch on a braked trailer. I am hoping to find a replacement 4WD SUV vehicle, but with a petrol engine. Any suggestions? AT

Assuming the trailer and launch weigh 3,000kg or more, there aren't many sufficiently substantial petrol cars. A Range Rover or Range Rover Sport 4.2 or 5.0 V8, perhaps? There is the Mercedes G-class with the 6.2-litre AMG 63 engine and some Jeeps have a hemi V8. A few American pick-ups might also suit.

Country life

Our annual mileage is circa 10,000, mostly rural with round trips of 10 to 30 miles. Unless circumstances change, we would expect to keep our next VW Passat for up to five years. We have driven diesel cars for many years. Is this the time to switch to petrol? MW

Yes, unless you take advantage of the plunge in value of nearly new diesels. Apart from the excellent but expensive GTE, Passats have only just become available with a range of petrol engines, so there isn’t much choice in terms of recent cars.

Inequitable life

I received my latest insurance renewal notice from Aviva for my seven-year-old Abarth 500. The premium has gone up from £268 to £293. I decided to try a market comparison and was quoted £217.75 by quotemehappy.com for exactly the same cover. So I’ve renewed via that company – which, it turns out, is part of Aviva. Is this common practice? JT

This is how private equity-funded businesses are run: AA, RAC and most insurers. They try to squeeze people for as much as they can, but relent if the customers fight back.

Firm rebuttal

I am considering a new Ford Fiesta but notice that this model has received mixed reviews. Could you could go into a bit more detail? OS

It’s extremely smooth and refined, but non-sporting versions can be spoiled by unsuitable boy racer accessories such as 17-inch wheels that harden the ride and cause the steering to lose feel when cornering. Stick to 15- or 16-inch wheels.

Adjustable damping

I left my Skoda Octavia 1.4 TSI Sport on the drive overnight and awoke to find all four electric windows in the down position after a night of rain. Any ideas? AA

There are two reasons why this happens. One is that you sat on the key and activated the global window opening function. The other is that water got into the ECU inside the driver's door and activated it.

Short answer

My wife is looking to change her car. The vast majority of her journeys involve trips no more than five miles. Does this mean she should avoid diesel? RF

She should definitely avoid diesel and probably hybrids, too. She needs is a plug-in electric car such as a Renault Zoë.

Piping hot

My 2.0-litre BMW X3 diesel is now on its third replacement turbocharger. The car is eight years old and has done 133,000 miles. After the first turbo failed, I was told to let the engine idle for a minute before turning it off, which I did, but the turbos are still failing. The car has a full BMW service history. What could the problem be? MD

The turbo bearing oil feed and return pipes are partially blocked with carbon (from switching the engine off when the turbo was too hot) and that is restricting oil flow through the turbo bearing. These pipes should always be replaced at the same time as a turbo.

Diamonds not forever

In the last 12 months I have suffered cracks in two of the four 21-inch diamond-cut alloys of my Audi Q7. At £1,500 per wheel, with labour on top, replacements have been very expensive. Is this a common fault? Have I been unlucky? And should I replace them with some cheaper smaller wheels and deeper tyres to protect this from happening again? DW

Yes. Get some 18-inch alloys coated with high-temperature paint and lacquer. Talk to tyremen.co.uk. The tyre size is 235/60 R18, giving a much better ride, and the tyres will probably last twice as long.

Malice, a forecourt

I put six litres of petrol in my Nissan Qashqai diesel to top up the tank. What can I do? AS

If it was only six litres you should be OK, as long as you quickly add a lubricity additive (such as Wynn’s), run the car on high-lubricity superdiesel fuel and do not let the tank go below half full for at least 2,000 miles. With luck, the petrol will float on top, then gradually disperse into the diesel without damaging the high-pressure diesel injection pump. If you allow the tank to get low, then petrol could find its way into the pump. The only alternative is to empty the tank and dispose responsibly of the contaminated diesel.

Looking for clues

I need to replace my Citroën Berlingo with something that’s cheaper to tax and has even easier access. Any clues? DD

Everything new since April 2017 is either £130 or £140 a year to tax (as long as it costs less than £40,000). I think your best bet is a Ford Courier Kombi 1.0 Ecoboost. That’s like a much better looking, though basic, smaller Berlingo.

See Lion

My wife wants to change her 2009 Mercedes A-class and we can spend up to £20,000. Suggestions? DL

Take a look at the Peugeot 2008 1.2 Puretech, either a 110 EAT6 automatic or a 130 six-speed manual.

Sting in the tale?

As replacement tyres for my 2007 Volvo XC70 AWD, would the new Michelin Cross Climate Plus have an advantage over the (original equipment) Pirelli Scorpion M+S? The latest Pirellis continue to perform well, but the Michelins seem to be getting very good reviews. GB

The matter might be decided by what is available in the right size. Michelin Cross Climates score with their compliance, quietness, good steering feel and performance in mud, as well as their cold weather virtues.

Seven, wonders

Having just acquired a Skoda Yeti with seven-speed automatic gearbox, I was dismayed to read your negative comments about its transmission. What are the problems and how will I recognise their onset? BC

It affects all VW Group cars with the DQ200 twin dry-clutch seven-speed DSG/S-tronic gearbox.

Country pursuits

I am looking to replace my Mini Cooper JCW. I am looking for something fun, but a little bigger (such as a BMW M3 or VW Golf R). I will use the car for a daily commute on A-roads and country lanes. MS

The latest Golf R has the DQ500 seven-speed wet clutch DSG and that makes an enormous difference, because the old DQ250 six-speed DSG wasn’t up to the job. You might also consider an Audi RS3 400 saloon (with the DQ500).

Soft option

What is the most comfortable SUV/MPV that combines good economy with low tax? DG

A Renault Kadjar 1.6 dCi AWD on 17-inch wheels with 215/60 R17 tyres is very comfortable, or a Honda CR-V on either 17- or 18-inch wheels. Since April 2017, annual tax on all new cars under £40,000 is the same: £140 per annum, with reductions for hybrids and EVs.

Top tips

I have a 1987 Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit. It has a factory-fitted Everflex roof. Some time ago the seams started to split. I had a temporary fix done, involving two thick plastic strips. This lets the car down. Can you give me any advice with regards to repairs? CJ

These people claim to specialise in repairing or replacing Everflex roofs (a more durable type of vinyl roof used by luxury car makers): www.rrbgarages.com/restoration/coachwork/trimming. That's information only: I have no feedback so can't vouch for them.

Expensive taste

My husband has a low-mileage Porsche Macan S diesel and wants to replace it with a hybrid. He loves Porsches, but its only hybrid of interest to him is the Panamera, at more than £100,000. What else might suit? MS

There is a new Lexus LX600h on the way and also a Lexus LC hybrid coupé, which is quite spectacular to behold. All the big players are switching to petrol hybrid SUVs. There is a BMW X5 40e and there will be an Audi Q5 hybrid (plus a Macan hybrid based on it). And, of course, there's the Cayenne hybrid.

Mined, the gap

We are about to take delivery of a new Jaguar saloon. The retailer is offering gap insurance, wheel, tyre and cosmetic or chip insurances. Should I consider any of these? BS

Gap (“return to invoice”) insurance can be worth having, but it is much cheaper bought independently from a specialist such as ala.co.uk (there are many more providers). The other add-ons are all commission earners. At least half of what you pay goes to the salesman and/or the dealer. Up to you, but I wouldn't bother.

Chip off old block

I acquired a Mini Cooper 1.5 in March 2015. Two years later BMW recalled it for software updates. They then returned the car and said they needed to order a part. In early July they recalled it again, this time for three weeks, and replaced the entire engine. All the local dealer will tell me is that there was a fault with the crankshaft seals. Can you shed any light? RS

You have been informed correctly. The bearings are checked and, if necessary, replaced. If they or the block are deemed to be too far gone, then the engine is replaced. A technical service bulletin was first issued in 2016. It seems to affect only early 1.5-litre three-cylinder engines.

Chord progression

I have driven Honda CR-Vs for many years and now have an HR-V, which I like. I now think it’s a bit too large for my needs and was thinking of changing to the Honda Jazz. My usual dealer recommends the Jazz SE 1.3 CVT, but I feel the engine might be underpowered. ED

The Jazz 1.3i VTEC CVT7 is economical but very slow. Things will perk up when the Jazz gets the HR-V’s 1.5i VTEC.

Hard reign’s gonna fall

When my wife bought a new car last year, I acquired her 2003 Mini Cooper automatic with sports suspension. The car has always had a hard ride, but two weeks ago the comfort level softened noticeably. Do you think it could it be a suspension problem? DM

Something is wrong. Get it checked.

Getting a Grip

I am looking for a car, new or used. I don't mind whether it’s a small two-seater, a hatchback or something larger, but it must have good visibility, comfortable seats and be fun and quick. Budget is up to £20,000. CW

Try a Peugeot 2008 1.2 Puretech 130 six-speed GT with Grip Control. It has plenty of pep and will look after you in the winter.

Cable car

We are about to purchase a second-hand Renault Zoê from a main dealer. During our chat I asked the salesman about servicing costs and he mentioned that only accredited electric car dealers could change the tyres and that we must stick with eco tyres. Is this correct? Secondly, do you think the depreciation will level off for electric cars, as the Zoê has lost more than 70 per cent of its value in just over a year. Finally, how easy will it be to trade it in after a few years with a dealer other than Renault? AK

The eco tyres are necessary to cut rolling resistance and extend the electric range. If you fit more resistant rubber, the range will decrease. The best way to have an electric car is to own the car and lease the battery. Batteries gradually lose their capacity, but if they are leased you are covered for replacements. Demand for electric cars is now increasing massively and there’s not much (apart from the battery) to wear out, so I’d have no worries over resale.

Town planning

My wife’s Land Rover Freelander 2 is 10 years old. We have owned it from new and there have been no problems, although it has done only 42,400 miles. Is it time to trade it in for something newer? She has been looking at a Renault Kadjar 1.5 diesel auto and, while it is a nice car, compared with the Freelander its suspension is a little firm. She does about 4,000 miles a year around town. Any advice? GH

The Kadjar will have felt hard because it was on 19-inch wheels with 45-profile tyres. Even the top Signature versions are available on 17-inch wheels with 60-profile tyres, which I have on mine. If she only drives in town, though, it’s better not to get a new diesel because she'll clog its particulate filter. Stick with the old Freelander or get a Kadjar with a petrol engine and the EDC transmission. Or take a future-proof option, the Kia Niro petrol hybrid SUV.

Scarce stories

I’ve had a succession of Lexus models, so I’m a serious fan and would like to buy an SC430. Do you have any particular advice when looking for a second-hand example? My present car is a 2006 IS250 and, if I don’t buy an SC430, I’ll need another premium four-door saloon, not necessarily a Lexus, but it must have more rear legroom as I have the driver’s seat all the way back. CKF

The SC430 is a rare car and some parts are not easy to find. If you ditch the idea in favour of rear legroom (the SC430 has none), then you'll get the most of that for a sensible price in the Skoda Superb. The 1.4 TSI 150 works well as a manual. If your car has to be automatic, then you need to go to a Superb with a 2.0-litre engine to get a more robust DSG than the DQ200 that comes with the 1.4 TSI.

Catering for masses

I have a six-year-old Toyota Aygo that I love for its economy and easy parking. Since the birth of another grandson. however, I need to change it for a five-seater and would appreciate your advice. I don't have a lot of money and can only afford a maximum of £3,000 on top of the Aygo’s trade-in value. JA

Try to find a Honda Civic 1.8i VTEC manual - masses of room, very versatile and 40mpg potential. Do not buy the i-shift automated manual, though.

Surface tension

I'm house-hunting and found one I like, but I'm put off by traffic noise from an A-road more than a mile away. This seems to be because the road surface is concrete rather than Tarmac. Why did councils use this surface? Was it to save money? TL

Yes, because it’s much more durable. Sections of the M25 in Surrey are concrete and very noisy.

Deutsch marques

Of the Mercedes C220, Audi A4 or BMW 3-series, which is the best for reliability, reasonable running costs and comfort? CJ

Probably the Mercedes, but they all have problem areas. Basically you're not buying any better quality than you’d get from a Toyota. Kia or Hyundai, merely the illusion of it coupled with far higher repair costs.

C sore

I have a 2004 Mercedes C-class. A message appeared showing two malfunctions: ABS and ESP. I went to my local service station and they connected a small computer near the accelerator. It noted no malfunction and the garage said there was nothing to worry about. On the way home, the message reappeared. What do I need to do? SM

This light alone is an MoT failure because it denotes a fault with the ABS/ESC, so I'm afraid you're going to have to take it for a more detailed check. It might be a wheel sensor, a reluctor ring or the brake pressure sensor inside the ABS/ESP module.

No defence at all...

I sold my Land Rover Defender XS and bought a slightly earlier Defender County with a much lower mileage. My insurer initially claimed that this was a commercial vehicle, despite it being virtually identical to the previous one. They demanded copies of the registration document and photographs before grudgingly conceding it was a car. They then charged me £111 extra for "change of vehicle", arguing that statistically one is more likely to have an accident after such a change. It was cheaper to pay the £111 than cancel the existing policy and renew with a different insurer. Extortionate? GH

That’s not good. Private equity investors have latched on to car insurance because it’s compulsory and they have everyone over a barrel. But, of course, next time you'll look around, so their nasty little tricks will lose them your business.

Rim with a view

After four Volvo V70s in 20 years, I am thinking of changing to a Skoda Superb SEL 190 estate. My present V70 is a D5 running on Michelin Cross Climates, which are brilliant. Any thoughts, adverse or otherwise, greatly accepted. The Skoda would not be new. MG

Good move. I prefer the Superb 2.0 TDI 150 to the 190 because it is nicer to drive. Make sure you buy one with the right tyre size to take another set of Cross Climates - no ridiculously big wheels with low-profile tyres.

My perfect cushion

I’m thinking of downsizing from a BMW 3-series with adaptive suspension to a Mini five-door auto. Is this available on a Mini and worth considering? BH

No. You soften the ride of a Mini by getting it on smaller wheels with deeper-profile tyres.

Back to my routes

I drive a Hyundai i30 CRDi and would like to change to a smaller car. I am interested in the i20 Premium Nav, but the 1,400cc engine only comes with automatic transmission and I would prefer manual. My main criteria are that I have a rear-view camera and sat-nav. FS

I’d go for the 1.0T GDI petrol - it's a more modern engine and much better.

Loud pedal

The engine in my 36,000-mile Kia Sportage 1.7 CRDI makes a loudish noise when I accelerate hard in sixth gear, especially on an incline. My main dealer has checked it out but says no fault can be found. What could be causing this - and might it be serious? JH

If you are accelerating in sixth up an incline in a Sportage 1.7 CRDI then you will probably be loading the engine too much, especially if the revs are below 2,000. The noise could be the dual mass flywheel protesting. You need to change down a gear (or two).

Comfort zone

I am looking to buy either a Kia Niro. a Hyundai Ioniq or possibly a Toyota RAV4 hybrid. They come with 15-inch wheels as standard, but nice-looking 17s are an option. A bad idea? JC

Whatever the wheel size, the tyres will have the same rolling circumference. The bigger the wheels, the less tyre there is between the rims and the road, hence less comfort. Sizes for the Niro are actually 16-inch rims with 205/60 R16 tyres or 18-inch with 225/45 R18s. I'd go for 16s on a Grade 1 or Grade 2 Niro, which I consider to be the best value.

Goodbye to chain

My wife would like to purchase a recent Audi A3 and I’m after a Skoda Yeti 4x4, but we’ve been put off by reading about the problems with the FSI and TSI engines fitted toVW Group cars. When was the revised EA888 engine introduced and how do I know whether a car is fitted with it? RL

EA888 models are the 1.8 TSI and 2.0 TSI. The revisions came in during 2013. The new engines have exhaust manifolds integrated within their cylinder heads. The EA211 1.2 TSI and 1.4 TSI were also revised during 2013, with belt cams instead of chains.

Moan of the cloth

My Honda Civic is almost three years old and after 25,000 miles the driver’s seat has started to wear at the edge panel. It’s still under warranty but Honda will not help. A car upholsterer told me this is a common occurrence and feels manufacturers are not using durable material. I have owned cars for more than 50 years and have never had this problem before. RK

It’s very common on sporty cars because the raised side bolsters are intended to keep drivers in the seats while cornering, but many slide over them when entering and leaving, which causes wears. We're not racing drivers. We don't need heavily bolstered seats any more than we need 19-inch wheels with 35-profile tyres, but this is a general problem across all makes, and a more serious problem for heavier drivers.

Focus group

We are considering a two-year old Ford C-Max 1.0 Ecoboost to replace our ageing Focus 1.8 TDCi. We haven't had the opportunity to test one yet, but I am a little concerned that the car may be underpowered with only a 1.0-litre engine. RC

It isn't underpowered or deficient in torque. The problem is that a number of owners have suffered failed clutches and dual mass flywheels with the 1.0 Ecoboost and six-speed manual in Focus and C-Max models. Ford denies a problem and blames the owners. You're probably better off with a Toyota Verso or a Kia Carens, both of which come with five-year warranties.

Gone west

A Gloucester garage did some work on my car and the repair failed due to a faulty sensor. The business has since closed and the owner tells me he is filing for bankruptcy, although I have since discovered that he was reimbursed for the faulty sensor. Is there any point in me using the small claims court to recover money from the garage? I assume not. GR

There’s no point making a claim against a bankrupt business or a bankrupt individual because you will be at the end of a long line of creditors that always starts with HMRC.

Tracks of my tears?

I am buying an all-wheel-drive Skoda Scout, but wonder whether its 225/50/R17 tyres will stand up to rough tracks? LL

These have a low profile, but not too low. I’d suggest 205/55 R16s or 205/60 R16s if you can switch, but wouldn’t worry too much if you can’t.

Niro fiddles?

I changed my VW Golf 1.6 TDI for a new Kia Niro hybrid. I used to pay £30 in VED for the VW, but must now pay £130 for the Kia. What is the point of trading in a fairly recent diesel for a more eco-friendly modern car? Likewise, where is the encouragement from the government when, with a hybrid, you only save £10 a year on VED? JW

Before April 2017, the Niro was tax-free. Showroom tax on your Niro from April was £25. CO2-based showroom tax actually rose to £2,000 for the highest emitters. The general change in taxation has switched from CO2 ratings to a straight £140pa from the second year plus an extra £310pa for four years on cars costing more than £40,000. The general tax of £140 is supposed to pay for the UK's roads, which the old CO2-based regime failed to do.

Parallel bars

I have decided to give up driving and my wife would benefit from an automatic small car with self-parking. What is the cheapest new car of this type and are there any used versions on the market? VE

Self-parking has been optional on the Ford C-Max and Ford Focus since 2010. Your problem will be finding a second-hand example that has this feature. Buyers don't like to pay extra for such enhancements in this class of car.

Carry on camping

As it appears that petrol and diesel vehicles will be banned in the future, how on earth are we going to tow? I own a caravan. Are there any existing hybrid or electric cars that can do the job? GH

They won't be banned. Only new ones, and probably only private cars because it simply isn't possible to convert the whole of Europe's trucking fleet to electric or hybrid operation. Some petrol hybrids are already capable of towing - for instance the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, Volvo XC90 T8 and BMW X5 xDrive 40e.

Minding the gap

I bought a new Toyota RAV-4 Hybrid and was offered gap insurance for about £400 for 12 months.  I don't really understand it and wondered if it was worth buying? WJK

It covers you for the difference between what an insurer will pay you if your car is written off and the original invoice price of the car. Some comprehensive policies cover you for this anyway for the first year, so check your policy. If not, try www.ala.co.uk to see how much it costs to buy gap insurance independently for 12 months: it’s probably about £100.

Drain on resources

I have a left-hand-drive VW Golf Mk4 GTI (originally imported from Germany), which has a leak in the nearside footwell. My local garage can’t fix it. Any ideas? PS

I had the same thing with a Seat Leon 20VT Sport. The pollen filter is on the left, is very difficult to access and the cover is often refitted badly or gets cracked. As well as that, the bottom seal of the pollen filter can fail, so water can drain into the cabin even if the bulkhead vent well drains are clear.

Boxster dog?

I have £10,000 to spend on a car and was thinking about a 986-model Porsche Boxster. What would you advise? RLJ

Great care is required with a Boxster 986, due to issues such as cracked bore liners and intermediate shaft bearing failures. A Mazda MX-5 2.0 six-speed Sport will be newer and as much fun for the same sort of money, without the worry.

Show your appreciation…

I have a BMW 135i, which my wife has annexed for the most part, leaving me her Mini. I plan to sell the Mini and buy something more to my taste for about £8,000. I'd like a modern classic that has a good chance of appreciating. What would you suggest? KC

It boils down to a Mazda MX-5 2.0i Sport six-speed, a Honda S2000 (they don't steer as well), a Toyota MR2/Celica GT or the Peugeot 306 GTI six-speed.

Dearly beloved

I have had my 1999T Ford Fiesta for 17 years. It looks immaculate and has done only 61,000 miles. Its annual service revealed corroded rear sub-frames, brake lines and a worn silencer. In view of its age, should I have it repaired or sell it? AW

You can't legally sell it in this condition, except to a trader or to a car restorer who is made fully aware of its state and signs something in writing to that effect. I personally don't think it's worth attempting to repair because the cost will far exceed the car’s value. But a Ford enthusiast might cherish its outwardly immaculate condition. Try www.fiestaclubgb.co.uk and www.fiestaownersclub.com.

Ignition key

My  2003 VW Golf has not been used for the last three months. What checks should be carried out to get the car back on the road? BP

Are the brakes free? Were they left off? Will it start? (It might need a jump.) Check tyre pressures. Check all levels. Leave the engine running until the thermostat opens and see if there are any leaks.

Future armour?

My wife purchased a new Ford Fiesta Zetec in 2016. The car is a 1.0 Ecoboost 100, bought on a two-year personal contract with the final optional balloon payment of £6,030 due in October 2018. If we were to buy, is this a good price for a two-year-old Fiesta? You indicated that the Ecoboost Focus could suffer from clutch failure. Is this also true of the Fiesta? GW

Complaints about the Fiesta are mostly about clutch packs with Getrag Powershift automatic gearboxes. Yours has a five-speed manual, not the six-speed auto that has caused problems. I don't predict future values, so can't tell you which side of £6,030 your car will be worth in a year, but it doesn't seem excessive.

Climate control

I've often read your praise for Michelin Cross Climate tyres as an all-round alternative to changing from summer to winter tyres. In many European countries it is a requirement to fit winter tyres or carry snow chains in cold weather. Are Cross Climates considered a satisfactory winter tyre in Germany, France, Switzerland and Italy? APO

Yes, they have the snowflake and mountains symbols on their sidewalls - anything with those is considered acceptable.

Depth charge

I have a 2013 Subaru XV 4x4. It has new tyres on the front wheels and slightly older rubber on the rear. At a recent main dealer service I was advised to replace the rear tyres because of the lower tread. The dealer said having different tread depths could damage the transmission. A tyre company said it had not heard of this problem on XVs and advised me to ignore it. What should I do? HE

The dealer is correct. Any disparity between types of tyres and a disparity of more than 2mm in tread depth can be detected by an automatic all-wheel-drive system as slippage and might cause damage.

Needle, haystack...

I am trying to find my friend’s old Land Rover, registered FPY 818D. He wants to buy it back if he can find it and the evidence suggests it is still around. How can I trace the owner? JJ

I assume you’ve checked www.gov.uk/get-vehicle-information-from-dvla to establish that the car remains active (or is else on a SORN certificate). Data Protection prevents you from finding the registered keeper, unless you have an exemption such as those used by private parking contractors. You could try one of the Land Rover clubs, but even then they would have to get the permission of the keeper before revealing his details to you. Use Google to find Land Rover clubs, but there are quite a lot of them.

Not best leased

I have an eight-year-old Honda Jazz. I am considering a new car before it needs expensive replacements. Would a short-term lease be a better option than buying? DMB

Insurance might be difficult and/or expensive for a leased car at your age. I'd buy. There is a better 1.5i 130 VTEC engine on the way for the Jazz. If you don't need Jazz versatility, consider a Suzuki Swift 1.0T Boosterjet six-speed auto. If you want something smaller, look at a new Kia Picanto.

Torque curve ball

I’ve been using BP Ultimate in my Kia Sportage 1.6 GDi and have been getting 40.2mpg. Previously I used supermarket 95 fuel and got 40.1mpg.  Apart from spending 10p a litre too much, what else am I doing wrong? CW

You are not using the extra torque from the higher cetane to change up earlier and, consequently, are using just as much fuel.

Rate of inflation

In September 2015 I received a safety recall notice from Toyota regarding the passenger airbag inflator on my Avensis. I waited patiently for many months and am still waiting. I’m told that there is a shortage of spare parts from Toyota and nobody seems able to give me a date. What can I do? DC

This is part of the worldwide Takata airbag inflator recall affecting 42,600,000 airbags on 33,800,000 cars. It is physically impossible for the company to produce 42,600,000 airbag inflators in a short time period. This is taking many years and has bankrupted Takata. Cars in areas of high humidity are getting the replacements first.

Perk up a pick-up

I took your advice a few years ago and purchased an Isuzu D Max truck. It has done only 16,000 miles but has been a fantastic buy. As I am now 75, I want to keep the Isuzu to see me out. What do I need to do to keep it in good order? EA

It would be a good idea to change the coolant, because the corrosion inhibitors and anti-freeze properties will have degraded. Change the brake fluid. Carry out a full lube job on all of the 4WD gear. Inspect carefully for stone chips and rust and touch-up accordingly.

Scored raw

My 2009 Audi A4 2.0 TDI has a scored flywheel and repairs at my local main dealer will cost £4,000. This is probably more than the value of the car, so what action would you recommend? It has an aftermarket warranty. MG

That type of damage might not be covered by the warranty because it is likely to be classified as wear and tear. Whether it's worth repairing depends on the true state of the crankshaft thrust bearing. If there is any wear in the housing, the engine itself is scrap. See what the warranty insurer has to say.

Cover point

I asked my broker whether no-claims discount protection was worth having and was told that my premium would rise as the result of a claim but the discount percentage would be protected. I continued with the protection. The key is how much this is worth to the insured in relation to the cost. BE

Fair point. Thank you.

Cash for questions

You recently wrote that, “Serious failures (in the emissions-reducing kit of modern diesel engines) are likely to be encountered before the car reaches a 100,000 miles and the cost of replacement far outweighs any saving on fuel.” Could you be more specific? BJ

Diesel particulate filters tend to fill with ash from the soot they have regenerated at between 80,000 and 120,000 miles. Sometimes they can be chemically cleaned out at a cost of £300-£400, plus removal, carriage and refitting. Replacement cost is £800-£2,000 each. Exhaust gas recirculation valve coolers routinely fail, especially on diesels used for short runs, and these can cost £600-£1,200 to replace. AdBlue heaters fail at about 50,000 miles and cost roughly £500 to replace.

Mazda 3-series

I'm a 76-year-old woman with a 2003 BMW 318CI SE automatic, owned from new. It has done 65,000 miles. I use it for local travel and the occasional long trip to Europe. Although I'm very reluctant to part with the BMW, I realise it is probably coming to the end of its life. Can you suggest a suitable replacement? My budget would stretch to £30,000. The replacement would have to have four doors and be a nippy petrol automatic. JT

I'd be looking at a Mazda3 2.0 120 Skyactiv-G SE-L Nav auto (£20,895) or a Mazda CX-3 2.0 120 Skyactiv-G SE-L Nav auto or the same thing with 2.0 150 Skyactiv-G SE-L Nav auto and AWD. These all have excellent six-speed torque converter automatic transmissions and are very pleasing to drive.

East in the West

I like my seven-year-old Skoda Fabia but will have to replace it in the next 18 months. As a result of Brexit I am inclined to buy a small car manufactured in the UK. What are my options? GH

Not many. You could look at the Nissan Juke (production of the Note has ended), Toyota Auris or Auris hybrid, Vauxhall Astra, Honda Civic or a Mini (though not the Countryman). That's it. And no significant British car manufacturer is owned by the British, which is one of the many things the Brexit brigade forgot. Brits proved incapable of running their own car industry, but are quite good at running it for overseas manufacturers.

Noise annoys

I have an MG ZT, bought as new (unregistered for six years) in 2011. It has developed an irritating drumming noise that appears to come from the rear when in motion. I replaced the rear discs and pads but it made no difference. The tyres are the original Continentals and show no uneven wear. I have been under the car and there is nothing loose. I thought it might be the wheel bearings, but I had one of those replaced a couple of years ago and so is relatively new. When the car is jacked up there is no undue movement on either of the rear wheels. I am totally perplexed. PC

It's possible that the strengthening band across the inside of the roof has come adrift from the roof itself.

Top hat and tales

I’m looking at getting a second car - a fun little convertible such as a Peugeot 207CC. What would you recommend for reliability? RB

A 207CC is your best bet, preferably an EU4 1.6 and not a diesel. Otherwise, the Mazda MX-5 is better than any small coupé-cabrio, with a simple canvas top that can be raised or lowered single-handedly in less than 10 seconds. If you go for a coupé-cabrio, check the electric roof carefully. They can and do fail.

Game, set and mutt

My daughter has a garage with rather tricky access. She needs as small a car as possible, albeit with space for a dog. Can you suggest a small, petrol manual that suits? JH

Nothing small has a low rear sill, because that compromises strength. Her best bet is probably the new Kia Picanto, with a seven-year warranty and up to £2,000 scrappage discount.

Branch line

I have bought a small piece of woodland and need a cheap 4x4 to negotiate some potentially muddy/rutted tracks. I don’t really want to spend more than £1,200. CM

For £1,200 it's pretty much anything you can find that still has some life. An open-back pick-up is more practical for hauling logs; an SUV or a van is more secure. Nissan Terrano IIs were quite tough and shared engines with London taxis, so there is good parts availability.

Our daily breadth

It seems that cars continue to get a little wider, but the white lines in car parks and multi-storeys do not change. A friend got a ticket for parking over the lines on both sides. CS

You're right. Domestic garages aren't getting any wider. either.

Super Swede...

I bought my Saab new in December 2010 and it now has 31,000 miles on the clock. It is in super condition, but I have been considering a change as I wish to ensure reliability and safety. Should I retain it and, if so, what advice would you give? NS

Presumably you are taking it to a Saab specialist for servicing? How much work it needs depends on whether it has a chain-cam Saab engine (2.0 petrol) or a belt-cam GM engine (in which case belt, tensioner, water pump and alternator belt all need to be replaced). If it hasn't had a recent change of brake fluid, then that needs to be done. A change of coolant wouldn't go amiss. And that's in addition to oil and filter changes, engine air filter change, pollen filter change and a thorough check of the brakes (with pads and discs replaced as necessary).

Kuga mellow camp

My Ford Kuga Titanium 2.0 TDCI is seven years old with and has done 56,000 miles. Normally I would be looking around for a replacement, but right now I feel hesitant to do so. My wife and I have been very pleased with the Kuga. What would you advise and what other alternatives should we consider? SW

Unless you do at least 15,000 miles a year or regularly tow a caravan/big trailer, a diesel poses more problems than it solves. Go petrol this time around. There is now a full range of petrol VW Tiguans, for example. Or a Suzuki Vitara S 1.4 Boosterjet, or a Peugeot 2008/3008 with the 1.2 Puretech 130 engine and six-speed box.

Pump my ride

I was surprised to find that cheap fuel supplied by supermarkets is of inferior quality. Does this also apply to diesel? MM

For 15 years or more I have advised readers to use only higher-grade petrol or diesel. This give more torque at low rpm so you can change up earlier, saving fuel. And it keeps the engine fuel system clean. Win-win, in my book.

Voyage of Discovery

I’m buying a new SUV (VW Tiguan, Audi Q5 or Land Rover Discovery Sport). I drive about 10,000 miles a year and have a 14-mile morning commute that doesn’t involve any motorways. Should I buy diesel or petrol? Is diesel still best for larger SUVs? SC

For smaller SUVs, petrol makes the most sense. If you're a Tiguan fan, VW now offers a range of 1.4- and 2.0-litre petrol engines. Land Rover produces 240 and 290bhp 2.0 Ingenium petrol engines for the Discovery Sport. For bigger SUVs used for towing, diesel remains best.

Standard fan guard

My Skoda Superb 2.0 TDI 140p DSG estate has just been to the main dealer for its EA189 NOx emissions fix. Since then, after short journeys, the radiator fan continues to run for a few minutes after the engine has been turned off and the engine seems extremely hot. It did not do this before the emissions fix. It does not do it on long journeys. The dealer says it is the particulate filter regenerating. Is there any cause for concern? RR

The NOx fix involves an additional injection cycle. If the injectors are not at their best, the fix can create more soot that the DPF has to burn off - that explains the heat and the fan.

Stick or twist

My Hyundai Santa Fe is almost seven years old. Although it has been brilliantly reliable, I am thinking of changing it just to have a newer car. Given that I tow a 1,500kg caravan, I assume I will need a diesel (quite possibly another Santa Fe), but am concerned that the value of diesels will plummet in years to come. Are there any turbocharged petrol cars that could be effective for towing? DC

To pull this sort of weight you can get a Land Rover Discovery Sport 2.0 Ingenium petrol with 240 or 290bhp and ample torque. Or simply stick with an EU6-compliant diesel. A new SsangYong Rexton will arrive soon. Prices start from £27,500 and it can lug 3,500kg.  

Can-can? Can’t...

The French have instigated low emission zones in certain cities, including Lyon. In order to drive in the designated areas, motorists have to display a vignette on the windscreen, which indicates the level of pollution emitted by their vehicle. I propose to drive through Lyon on the motorway and have tried to ascertain if I will need one of these Crit-air stickers. MT

If your car qualifies for a sticker, you need one (or else avoid Lyon, Grenoble, Paris and Lille entirely): www.certificat-air.gouv.fr/en. If your car doesn't qualify, don't go near these cities.

Buy jingo

With Brexit shortly upon us, which family saloons or hatchbacks will best fit the "buy British" tag? KT

All Jaguars and Land Rovers, Honda Civic, Toyota Auris and Avensis, Vauxhall Astra, Nissan Juke, Qashqai and Pulsar, Infiniti Q30 and all Minis except the Countryman.

Reality check

I am considering a one-year-old Mercedes C350e hybrid, but am confused by the published fuel consumption figures. How can the manufacturer claim a figure of more than 130mpg, yet independent reviews state that one is lucky to get much above 40mpg? JH

That 130mpg is the NEDC 11-kilometre lab test figure that massively complements plug-in hybrids, which generally have an electric range of 20-30 miles. You will probably get 40mpg in normal day-to-day driving.

Regeneration game

One reads of the merits of electric cars and the certainty that we will all one day be driving them. Why is it that barely any comment is made on hybrids? For instance, I drive a Toyota Yaris and was thinking of a change to the hybrid as it made sense to me to have an engine charging the battery and avoiding limits on distance and charge points. CC

It makes a lot more sense than telling everyone to get electric cars. If I were you I'd go ahead and get a Yaris hybrid.

Cents of direction

I’m looking to buy a January 2015 Renault Scénic XMOD 1.6 VVT Dynamique TomTom, which should have sat-nav as standard but doesn’t. The dash is complete, but with no space for a screen. Is it common for carmakers to put vehicles out for sale with standard equipment 'missing'? HG

If it's called a Renault XMOD 1.6 Dynamique TomTom, then it should have a TomTom. If it’s cheap, of course, it could also be a misbuild.

Labour pains

I have a 2013 Toyota Avensis CVT. When travelling at 20 to 35mph, just maintaining speed, the engine drops to 1,000rpm and begins to labour. A transmission shop who said it was normal, but it's really bugging me. RT

That doesn't sound normal to me and I've driven several Avensis CVTs. In the first instance, try running on Shell V-Power for a while to see whether that improves matters. Stick with V-Power and it will cleanse the fuel system.

Fluid dynamics

My 2012 17,000-mile Nissan Micra 1.2 CVT is due for a major service. Do I need to change transmission fluid and coolant? YS

Yes. It’s wise to change the coolant because its corrosion inhibitors will have degraded by now.

The main chance

The Skoda Superb seems to be the best option to replace my Saab 9-5 Aero. My local main dealer tells me that with the spec I want (estate, auto and petrol), the maximum discount I can expect is "about £200”. This seems ludicrous when in theory I can achieve a saving of about 20 per cent by buying online. Should I be wary of doing that? RW

They can offer bigger discounts by channelling large numbers of orders through individual dealers, allowing that dealer to obtain volume discounts and bonuses. That's how Drivethedeal works and you pay the dealer, not Drivethedeal, so your contract is with the dealer.

Missing figures

A friend recently had the number plates stolen from his car. What course of action should be taken to safeguard himself if the plates are put on another car that is involved in any traffic offences? RC

Inform the police and the DVLA immediately. It’s a wise precaution to request a new registration from the DVLA, or buy a cheap non-dating reg from www.speedyreg.co.uk.

Careless whispers?

I bought a 2016 Octavia estate from a Skoda approved used dealer. I soon detected a number of faults and the garage identified a failing gearbox. I’ve since been treated very well, but should I be concerned the car might have been driven carelessly in the past? JR

Not necessarily. You don't say which gearbox, but if it's a seven-speed dry-clutch DSG automatic there have been lots of problems.

You did ask...

I’m looking to replace my six-year-old Ford Mondeo with something similar. I normally buy nearly new. Any recommendations? BJ

A Mazda6 Skyactiv G (petrol) SEL-Nav six-speed auto SW on 17-inch wheels with 55-profile tyres. It has to be the SW because otherwise the Mazda6 is a saloon.

On the road again

I have just bought a 2014 Audi A3 petrol. I will be travelling frequently for long periods and want to manage battery life. The car will be parked outside on a driveway, close to the road. My initial thought is to disconnect one terminal while away and buy a charger/starting kit (£75) in case it’s required when I get back. MM

You need a CTEK battery-conditioning trickle charger (www.smartercharger.com), from Halfords, but this obviously requires a power supply. I don't recommend disconnecting the battery. If there is no way you can run a cable to the car, then a charge pack might be the answer (but that will itself have to be charged before use).

Chemical reaction

My 2006 Toyota RAV-4 T180 has done 80,000 miles and suffered some sort of blocked engine filter a day after driving back from Scotland. There were various error messages on the dash, but the engine ran perfectly. My garage said the cure was to unblock a soot filter, but that I might need a new one (£1,600) at some stage. I tend to drive at 2,000rpm and wonder if, when the engine is warm, increasing the revs occasionally in a lower gear might prevent a repeat. RT

At that sort of mileage the particulate filter starts to fill with ash from all the soot it has been burning off. Sometimes these can be chemically cleaned by sending them away to Ceramex. It costs about £300 plus removal, carriage and refitting. Terraclean promises to perform this service at your house, but I have no independent confirmation of how well this works.

Korea advice

I have had new Hyundai Santa Fes for some time and really like everything about the car. I wouldn’t normally look twice before buying another, but I am told they only do diesel-engined models. Should I go ahead regardless or is there a better alternative? GP

Land Rover has started doing 240 and 290bhp 2.0 petrol engines in the Discovery Sport, but there is no need to panic about diesel just yet. As long as your new car has an EU6 rating you face no problems in the immediate future, apart from the usual ones about its unsuitability for short runs.

Wife swap

My wife likes her 2012 Mercedes-Benz A-class, but fancies a change. She’s looking for something about the same size, fully automatic, with good build quality and hopefully a high seating position. We don’t want to spend more than £11,000 if possible. RT

Try a Hyundai ix20 or Kia Venga 1.6 auto.

Creature comforts

Two 75-year-old friends have an ageing Labrador and need a car the dog can access as it becomes increasingly lame. What should they consider? DH

A Honda Jazz. Its back seats fold down, the squabs lift up and that would allow the dog relatively easy access to the floor in the centre of the car.

American English

Why do the Americans think 50-55mpg to the gallon in a fourth-generation Toyota Prius is so good? I have one and have no problem getting 60-70mpg even on a long run. Do they use a different type of petrol, or what? MW

Different size of gallon. US gallons are smaller than imperial gallons (3.79 litres rather than 4.55, so 55mpg in the US equals 66 in the UK).

Rights and wrongs

The Consumer Rights Act provides for a full refund of the purchase price if the goods do not meet the expectations of the purchaser. In the case of a second-hand car, if a fault is found, how can it be proved that the fault lies with the seller and not due to some action of the purchaser? RF

The presumption in Sale of Goods and all relevant case law is that if the fault could have been present or developing on date of sale, then the supplier is liable for six months. To remove that obligation the supplier has to prove otherwise. After six months the burden of proof shifts to the purchaser. I have yet to see any case law on the Consumer Rights Act 2015.

Another fine mess

I have received a fine from CP Plus for a car I was not driving while in England. It is threatening legal action and to impact my credit file. I have ignored all letters; the most recent is from Debt Recovery Plus. Will this impact my credit file if it goes to court? And is it likely to go to court? LM

If you are the registered keeper of the car and you failed to identify the driver at the time of the transgression, then you are legally liable to pay the fine. A CCJ against you for a bad debt will seriously impact your credit record. But if this concerns a car with which you have no connection, pay the fine, then institute UK Small Claims action against CP Plus for fraud, and criminal action for intimidating and threatening behaviour. For Small Claims go to:  www.gov.uk/make-court-claim-for-money/overview.

My perfect cushion

I have just bought a Subaru Outback. It appears to have a very hard ride. Can adjust this by fitting larger tyres to cushion the ride? JO

The only way you can fit deeper-profile rubber is to fit smaller wheels. But first check the tyre pressures. These days a lot of lazy dealers are delivering cars to customers with the tyres at storage pressures of 40psi-plus. That might be the reason.

Wellington boost

My daughter is coming over from New Zealand and I would like to lend her my car. Is there an insurance company that offers free-standing policies for such cases? PT

Look at www.dayinsure.com or www.aplan.co.uk.

Q branch

The warranty on my Audi Q5 is about to expire. Audi has offered extended warranty, but can you recommend any alternatives? DL

Options include www.motoreasy.com or www.warrantywise.co.uk.

Firm opinion

I have read a lot of reports about the sports suspension on Audis being too harsh. Is it really that noticeable? JR

On 30-, 35- or 40-profile tyres, yes. Specify the SE suspension and 55-profile tyres.

Open to suggestions

I am purchasing a rarely used 2003 Peugeot 206CC from my elderly parents. The car has done  about 11,000 miles and has had regular oil changes, but otherwise has an incomplete service history. I have booked an MoT and full service, but what else should I consider to ensure safety and longevity? SK

Change the timing belt, tensioners, water pump, alternator belt, brake fluid and coolant. Have the roof mechanism thoroughly checked and lubricated.

Logan’s tip run

My second VW Touran 1.6 TDI is due for a change. I no longer need seven seats, so will a cheap, petrol Dacia Logan MCV be a suitable tip-friendly replacement? My wife drives a Sandero Stepway and it goes well, if a little noisily. JB

That makes sense. The 900cc three-cylinder chain-cam turbo has a bit more get up and go. They make a Logan Stepway as well now, with bigger wheels and tyres, but it's a bit more expensive.

Airs and disgraces

I recently bought a new Mazda MX-5, with which I am very pleased. After a month I checked the tyre pressures to discover that they were at 54psi rather than the recommended 30psi. Why would the garage have set them so high? GB

That is storage pressure, to prevent the tyres from flat-spotting while the car is waiting to be sold. It’s unforgivable of the dealer not to have checked them as part of the pre-delivery inspection and could have had dire consequences. At least you're now finding out what an MX-5 [it]should[/it] feel like to drive.

Small torque

I want to replace my five-year old Mazda CX-5, which I love, with something smaller - deally a petrol automatic. I really like the high driving position, have got used to the rear parking camera/integral sat-nav and need a boot big enough for two spaniels, though 4WD is no longer necessary. I had considered the CX-3 but the interior seems rather cheap compared with my CX-5. MC

I'd go for a CX-3 to get the same excellent six-speed torque converter automatic. A Suzuki Vitara S 1.4T Boosterjet and the SsangYong Tivoli also have proper six-speed torque converter autos.

Glaring error?

I’m holidaying in France soon and I need to buy some headlight deflectors or face a fine. I asked Volvo what would suit my 2017 V40 and was told it doesn’t need deflectors because the headlights are LED. Is this right? JM

Probably. Park it facing a wall at night, turn the headlights to full beam and then switch to dip. If they dip down you don't need deflectors. If they dip to the left, you do.

Hot topic

Why is liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) not the obvious alternative to electricity as a replacement for petrol and diesel? It's in plentiful supply and cheap. MD

It's still a by-product of a fossil fuel that has to be burned.

Cat needs vet

I've just noticed the headlining of my 1998 Jaguar XJ8 is sagging quite badly, all at the front and some at the back. What can I do? SCBS

Look for upholsterers and trimmers at www.yell.com.

All4 one, one for All4

We are thinking about buying a new Mini Countryman. Are there any benefits of the All4 over the standard model to justify the extra cost? MW

All-wheel drive provides more security in everyday driving, as well as obvious benefits in adverse conditions such as we've encountered recently. The only downside is that you'll use slightly more fuel as a result of the weight and the internal friction of all the four-wheel-drive hardware. So I think it's worth having, despite a 5mpg fuel economy penalty - especially if you live in a part of the UK that's more prone to adverse weather.

Whining about lining

Why do car makers insist on lining car boots with fuzzy material? It is impossible to vacuum and clean. FM

It deadens sound and helps to stop things sliding about. Some load decks are reversible; fluffy one side, rubberised the other. And you can always get load liners if you carry particularly messy stuff.

Baywatch

What is the statutory size of parking bays in council car parks in England? JV

The "recommended" (not “statutory”) minimum dimensions for a car space are 4.8 metres by 2.4 metres. But, of course, the biggest problem is caused by bays being at right angles to the access roads and the access roads being too narrow. This could be fixed by angling the bays in herringbone fashion, making them much easier to enter and leave.

Artistic licence

My husband struggles to get in and out of our VW Up, so I have been looking at small SUVs. I do no more than 3,000 miles per year, and I’m looking at the Vauxhall Crossland X, Peugeot 2008 and Fiat 500X. Parking cameras and enough space in the boot for golf clubs are desirable. Any ideas? ST

Best is probably a Citroën C3 Picasso, about to be dropped but available with the same 1.2 Puretech 110 engine as in the Peugeot 2008. SUVs like the 2008 and Crossland X are higher off the ground, so an MPV offers easier access.

Patter of tiny Fiat

What came before the 60-year-old Fiat 500? My mum (nearly 90) recalls her brothers taking her to school in a small blue Fiat with a roll-back roof and a reserve petrol tank. The brothers eventually had one each and the cars were small enough to bounce out of each other’s way. GBA

The 500 dates back to 1936 and there are several on display at the Lingotto factory in Turin. The car had a four-cylinder engine mounted in front of the axle with radiator behind. It was originally a two-seater, but there was a four-seater from 1937 and the model was revived after WW2 with faired in headlights, continuing up to 1955. There was then a gap of two years before Fiat launched the Nuova 500 that we all know and love.

Postal strike

I have read that “The police must notify you of an intended prosecution (NIP) within 14 days of an offence. Check whether the NIP has been served on time. If it hasn’t, write to the police informing them that they are out of time and asking them to confirm that they won’t be taking any further action.” Is this correct? PC

Yes, but they only have to [it]send[/it] the NIP to the registered keeper within 14 days. They cannot be held to account for delays by the Post Office.

Animal magnetism

We have an 875cc Fiat Panda TwinAir auto. What tyres would you recommend for quietness on our rubbish roads? JP

Michelin Cross Climate Plus - as well as the all-weather properties, they give a compliant, quiet ride and better steering feel.

Against the current

How long will it be before the so-called experts and politicians decide that there are issues with driverless vehicles and electric power? DC

Some electric cars, such as the Smart ForTwo Electric, are brilliant to drive in traffic. But, so far, there have been problems with all types of autonomous driver aids. For cars to be truly autonomous we will need a new road network; the idea of driverless cars for the masses is still a long way from reality.

Gold plated

I own a 2003 Toyota Yaris with a personalised number plate that’s worth vastly more than the car. If the car was written off, would I still be able to transfer the registration to another car? The car has been serviced regularly, but because of its age I would like to know if it's in my interest to sell the plate before the car becomes defunct. BF

You would very quickly have to switch the car to a date-related plate and put your reg on retention before the car was written off. It’s probably better to switch the plate to a retention certificate at this stage anyway. It costs about £140 (www.gov.uk/keep-registration-number).

Juke ’box jury

One year ago I purchased a 2012 Nissan Juke CVT from a main dealer. The gearbox recently began to malfunction - when I selected reverse it would judder and stop before eventually engaging. It now also happens in drive mode. Is this common and what are the likely repercussions? Do you think I have any claim against the dealer? I have only driven 6,000 miles since I've had the vehicle. JE

There are many such faults reported with CVTs in 2011-2013 Jukes, Qashqais, Notes and Micras. Get it back to the supplying dealer and request that he fixes it. Your rights are here: www.honestjohn.co.uk/faq/consumer-rights.

Left right?

The garage that sold my 2011/61 Skoda Yeti Greenline has suggested that it is not worth having the free EA189 NOx emissions fix done at a main dealer. Will this affect any future sale or cause problems with the DVLA? It has done 70,000 miles and runs as if new. TWF

It is not compulsory and most dealers sensibly advise you if it looks likely to cause expensive repairs. Had they done the work and your car subsequently suffered problems, they would have been legally liable to put it right. Skoda now warrants dealer fixes for two years and up to 160,000 miles.

Odour and out

We have had our 2011 Skoda Yeti from new, but in the last three months there has been a strong smell of damp. It transpires that the footwells are wet. Any idea what might have caused this? NM

On VW Group cars the first thing to check is the bulkhead vent well and pollen filter. If the drains either side of the vent well get blocked, then rainwater will collect in the vent well and eventually seep into the car via the pollen filter. Other reasons for water ingress in that area are a damaged pollen filter seal or cover, or the pollen filter cover simply not being put back correctly after replacement. I learned about all of this the hard way.

Balancing the books

My daughter has two young children and drives a Renault Clio 1.4. She wants to replace it with a slightly larger estate car, but would like it to be more economical as she uses it to drive to and from work. She has only an automatic licence. DY

Stick to petrol, maybe a Renault Captur 1.2 EDC auto or a Peugeot 2008 1.2 Puretech EAT6 auto. They aren't as economical as diesels, but don't share the latter’s emissions system problems so running costs even out.

Marque of distinction

I am looking for an SUV. I have a 12-year-old Mazda6 with 148,000 miles, but it’s still a dream to drive. It’s a smooth petrol automatic and I would like to find a car with similar qualities. BDS

Mazda does not offer the new CX-5 SUV with a petrol engine and automatic transmission, but does offer the very pretty CX-3 with 2.0-litre 120 Skyactiv G petrol engine and a lovely six-speed torque converter auto. Give that a try.

Drink problem

My wife is keen to replace her 2012 VW Tiguan 2.0 TSFi with the new model, but we are concerned by the very high oil consumption of the petrol engine in her current car. Does the new model have exactly the same engine? NB

They fixed this with an extensively revised EA888 engine that has indirect as well as direct injection, better quality timing chains and improved piston rings.

Act 2, Scénic 1

We need to replace our nine-year-old Renault Scénic with a smaller car. We’d like high seating and a chain-cam petrol turbo capable of towing 20cwt. RG

Look at the Peugeot 2008 1.2 Puretech 130 six-speed. Just remember to idle the turbo for a few minutes before switching off after towing.

Open to suggestions

I have been a loyal Saab customer, but need to dispose of my 2004, 76,000-mile 9.3 Aero soft-top. What is its approximate value as a private sale? I need to replace it with an economical petrol automatic and don’t know what to buy. I have a budget of up to £30,000. GS

It should fetch about £2,000. The most economical petrol automatics are invariably hybrids, such as Toyota’s Yaris (less than £20,000), Auris, Prius and C-HR, plus the Kia Niro and the Hyundai Ioniq.

Obvious answer...

Where can I find information about fixing a suitable European-spec headlamp deflector to a 2017 Peugeot 3008? EJ

Read the driver's manual. You might not need them at all, because the lights probably dip down instead of to the side. You can easily check by parking the car facing a wall (or your garage doors) at night and seeing which way they dip.

Much ado about nothing

I am due to travel to Ireland and am concerned that I will not be able to pay the automatic fees levied on motorways, which normally only display a phone number/email address on the gantry. You cannot make a note of these details at the time and thus face fines. Where can I find out how and when to pay? RB

It’s not a problem. Only the M50 operates exclusively like this. The rest have toll booths where you can pay with cash or card. Here is how the system works and you can use this website to pay the fee: www.etoll.ie/driving-on-toll-roads/information-for-visitors.

Dirty trick

I’ve just bought a VW Transporter that has had its diesel particulate filter removed. Is it a case of buying a new exhaust, or has it gone for life? JP

It was illegal to remove the DPF, so it has to be replaced. It was also illegal for someone to sell you the VW without a DPF. Give them the choice of a refund or else fitting a working DPF system (that could cost upwards of £1,000).

Uphill struggle

My wife and I drive a 1.4 Vauxhall Meriva. We like the high driving position and physical size of the car, but find it very underpowered for tackling hills and overtaking. We are looking to go more upmarket and have looked at the Audi Q2, BMW X1, Peugeot 308 and Mini Countryman. What would you advise? A good safety rating is paramount. MG

From your list, go for a Q2 with the 1.4/1.5 TSI 150 engine, an X1 with xDrive and the 2.0i 192S engine, a Mini Countryman Cooper S with the same 2.0i 192 engine, a 308 with the 1.2 Puretech 130 engine (or a 3008 with the same engine). A 1.2 might sound small, but it is both gutsy and economical.

Variable valve timing

Our 2012/62 Skoda Superb Greenline estate (with EA189 engine) has just been called in for the “emissions service action” fix carried out. We have yet to book it in but are wondering if it would be advantageous to have the exhaust gas recirculation valve replaced at the same time. What do you think? Also, when should we have the timing belt done? The car has done only 30,000 miles. PB

Main dealers can charge about £1,200 to replace an EGR valve, but at 30,000 miles it should still be in decent shape. If you don’t replace it, but go ahead with the fix and the EGR fails soon afterwards, the dealer who carried out the work is liable to replace it at no cost. I’d be thinking about getting the timing belt, tensioner, water pump and alternator belt replaced fairly soon.

Tesla goals

I own a 2006 Skoda Octavia and feel it is time to change. As the trend in cars seems to be moving towards hybrid or electric to reduce pollution. I am considering the Toyota Auris Sports Tourer, Toyota Prius or the Hyundai Ioniq. I understand also that the Tesla Model 3 mass-market vehicle might be available in about two years. Any suggestions? BW

Elon Musk certainly got it right, but the world will need a thousand times the production level of the Tesla Model 3 by 2040 if it is to cope with the projected ban on petrol and diesel cars. Meanwhile, for the next 20 years, any car on your list make sense. The Toyotas are the most extensively proven. The Ioniq (and the Kia Niro) use a more positive dual-clutch transmission rather than Toyota's epicyclic CVT.

Dear park

My wife drove our nine-year-old Lexus LS600h until the cooling system stopped the car and we face a £24,000 repair bill. It cost more than £65,000 new and we do really love it. I know if we spent £24,000 on another car it would not give us the same pleasure. What would you do in this instance? PB

It sounds as though the inverter cooling system pump failed. It is the first time I've heard of this. I don't think I could justify spending £24,000 on repairs to any car - especially as there is a fabulous new LS hybrid on the way. 

Viva pitch

We are looking at a contract-hire agreement for our 23-year-old son. We were considering a one-litre Ford Focus or Fiesta Ecoboost, or possibly the 1.2 Ka+. A Vauxhall Corsa is also a possibility. DvD

The Fiesta was sportier, though there is now a new model and it has had mixed reviews. You might be better with a discounted 2016 version. Forget the Focus EcoBoost - too many clutch failures. The new Ka+ 1.2 is smooth and rides well but is gutless. The best new little car is the Kia Picanto 1.0 three-cylinder. Vauxhall does a cheap Corsa with alloy wheels for £9,000, but it is also gutless. The Viva makes more sense to me (but probably not to your son).

In at the deep end

I detest low-profile tyres and all the problems associated with them on England’s rubbish roads. If I buy a new Vauxhall Insignia Grand Sport Tourer, will I be able to have normal tyres? MF

It’s up to you to demand them. After I requested 215/60 R17s on a new Renault Kadjar Signature, Renault made them a no-cost option to the usual hard-riding, more damage-prone 225/45 R19s. For an Insignia it’s probably better to go no deeper than 55 profile.

Straight talking

After its annual service, MoT and tyre change, my 2003 BMW 530d Touring was returned with the steering wheel out of line. The garage insists it is not responsible, as it did no work on the steering mechanisms. Can you help? MW

I guess they jacked the car up by the suspension arms and bent one of them. It’s worth getting a complete alignment check done, then send the bill to the MoT and tyre place.

Short answer

My Renault Megane 1.6 dCI is 12 months old and has done 3,400 miles. Renault says a service is due, but this does not include an oil change. Should I arrange an oil/filter change, or does Renault know best? AP

I'd get the oil and filter changed. But if you're only doing 3,400 miles in a year you bought the wrong car. You should have chosen petrol.

Shall I compare thee?

I had a 2003 VW Golf 1.9 TDI 130 estate and at 65-70mph on steady motorway run it gave us 63mpg at 2,000rpm. Monthly tax was £12.68. Now I have a 2007/57 VW Touran 1.6 petrol and at the same speed get 43mpg at 3,000rpm. Monthly tax is £23.62. What is the point in changing an older diesel for a newer petrol, when it costs more to run and tax? GM

If the petrol vehicle has an EU4 emissions rating it won't get banned from city centres in 2019, unlike non-EU6 diesels. You have also changed from a small estate to a brick-shaped MPV and are not comparing like with like.

Norman wisdom

We are taking our car to Normandy and are aware of the many requirements to be fulfilled. At present, my husband and I have only the paper version of our British driving licences as we have had no reason to change them (and no desire to pay £20 for a plastic one for the sake of it). Do you think that we should get ourselves plastic versions in case we are stopped in France. GP

Yes. Your old paper licences remain legal but the idea is so archaic that it could cause problems. You can use your passport photos to apply for the Photocards online: www.gov.uk/exchange-paper-driving-licence.

The weakest link?

Is a 1.5 petrol engine potent enough for an automatic BMW 2-Series Active Tourer? DA

Some owners think not - and the three-cylinder engine has had some crankshaft bearing problems.

Miles purr hour

The catalytic converter of my 1995 Jaguar XJ6 is making noises. The local Jag dealer in Exeter says it cannot be replaced and will fail its MoT in September. The car runs beautifully. What would you do? Is it possible to get one from a breaker? LH

Presumably it's rattling because the ceramic matrix has broken up. It's highly likely that one sourced from a breaker will have suffered shock damage and will be in the same state. If you key “Jaguar XJ catalytic converter suppliers” into Google you will find a cheaper replacement than a main dealer can supply.

Air necessities

I need to change my Audi A8 and would like to try a different marque.  I particularly like the A8’s air suspension and understand this feature is also available on the new BMW 7-series. Can you tell me if any other makes offer this type of suspension? I am only interested in used vehicles of about four years of age or newer. PM

Air ride comes as standard on the rear of BMW F11 and G31 5-series Tourings. It’s standard or optional on a lot of Mercedes models, including the C-class. It is also standard on Range Rovers and on the rears of Discovery 4s and 5s. The slight problem is that air-ride involves compact rubber airbags and these don’t have indefinite lives.

Close to the edge

The front tyres of my Jaguar XE have done 17,000 miles. Both outer edges have worn to the point of being smooth. An alignment check suggested everything was OK, but I am not convinced. SB

If the outer edges have worn smooth, then the alignment might be out with too much toe-in. But it could also indicate too much pressure in the front tyres or that you are applying too much steering lock when cornering.

Not a bright idea

I would like to upgrade the headlights of my Mazda MX-5 Mk III. My Mazda dealer would not fit aftermarket bulbs, quoting reliability problems. I would appreciate your view. CH

I never recommend this, partly due to the potential for overloading the car's wiring or overheating the headlight reflectors and partly due to the potential for creating illegal dazzle.

Absolutely no pressure

I recently bought a six-month old BMW that has a treatment applied to the paintwork and interior trim. Is it OK to use a pressure washer to clean the car? GG

Definitely not. You will remove the treatment. Don't use local hand car washes either, not just because of the pressure washers. Some of their detergents contain acids. Use a bucket and sponge, preferably while it is raining because the rain loosens surface dirt and also rinses the car without streaks.

Protection racket

Is it worth paying £52 for a no-claims discount protection on my insurance policy for a 2005 Jaguar S-type? DM

I don't think so. Readers’ experience proves that premiums still rise if they are involved in a claim.

Voyage of Discovery

My Land Rover Freelander is almost three years old and has done 20,000 miles. The replacement model is the Discovery Sport, which can currently be supplied only with a diesel engine. Those are getting a very bad press at the moment and I am told Land Rover is bringing out a petrol version later this year. Should I wait? RH

I tested the new Ingenium petrol engine in the F-Pace and it works well. The problem is that Jaguar does not want to sell many vehicles with this engine because it will raise the company's corporate average CO2, leading to EC penalties. The same goes for BMW and Mercedes-Benz, both of which also have 2.0-litre petrol engines. On the other hand, VW has recently announced a range of low-CO2 1.4 petrol engines for its Tiguan SUV.

Stopping distance

My VW Golf is now 16 years old and has just had its annual service. When I collected it, the mechanic mentioned that the brakes were fine and commented on the front pads being hardly worn. When I told him they were the originals he wouldn't believe me. MW

You live in Guernsey with a 40mph maximum speed limit, so the brakes don't have to do much work, but that is still remarkable.

Old-age tensioner

I have a 2008 BMW 320d that has done just over 100,000 miles and seems to require little servicing. Is there anything that should really be done to keep it ticking over? JC

The worry with N47D20A and N47D20D engines built from March 2007-May 2009 is failure of the tensioners. The system was modified from May 2009 and five years later BMW admitted the problem, started checking and began fitting cars with revised tensioners.

Hark, the Herald?

I am trying to locate my old Triumph Herald convertible, registered SSF 799, that was sold to someone in Edinburgh. My late father spent many hours restoring this car for me and I would love to buy it back. RL

This finds basic details: https://www.gov.uk/get-vehicle-information-from-dvla. I did the search for you. It did not tell me that the car had been scrapped, but it has been off the road since 1994 so I don't think there's much hope of finding it intact.

Risk assessment

The new Kia Picanto could well be my next car. Research indicates that my local main dealer isn't remotely competitive compared with what’s available from other franchises on the Kia website. I think you generally advise against buying unseen, but would you consider an Approved Used Kia (warranty topped up to the full seven years) a worthwhile risk? TS

The 2017 Picanto is already here in quite large numbers. I've seen dozens. Yes, the used warranty is topped up by an insured (rather than factory) warranty to seven years. Your problem will be that any dispute, big or small, will be with a supplier many miles from where you live. It is always better to have warranty work done by the supplier, rather than another franchise that has no interest in the car except its servicing.

Battling average

I am thinking about buying another car, but am confused about the diesel/petrol issue and the government's direction. Will I be penalised financially for buying a diesel car in the future through road tax, resale value or fuel cost? CH

No decisions have yet been made about increasing annual VED or the cost of diesel - and I don't think either will happen, because the only way for manufacturers to keep their ranges within EC Corporate Average CO2 limits is to sell more diesel vehicles than petrol. Where diesels are taking a hit is due to the gradual public realisation that the emissions-reducing kit does not last the life of the vehicle. Serious failures are all likely to be encountered before the car reaches 100,000 miles and the cost replacement far outweighs any saving on fuel.

Strip search

I need to replace the window strip on the right-hand side of my 2000 Volvo V40. I have tried local breakers but they will only sell me a complete door. Is there anyone in the UK who deals in spares for old Volvos? JD

There is a Volvo-specific breaker at Wyboston on the A1, just a couple of miles north of the A421 roundabout: www.lakes4volvo.co.uk/page2.html.

Great expectations

We have a 2012 Kia Sportage that has been great, but we are now thinking about changing it for a new Sportage or a Mini. We would really like a petrol Mini with four side doors, but don't know that much about them. We don't have a large budget so what do you suggest? RSC

The new Kia Sportage GT 1.6T-GDI 4x4 is great, probably outhandles a Mini and comes with a seven-year warranty. That probably makes the most sense.

No reason to stop

Over 10 months, my 2016 Audi A4 Avant has activated its pre-sense braking system on 15 occasions, for no obvious reason. The main dealer hasn’t been able to help. Can you? VR

There has been a massive recall of VW Golfs and Audi A3s over this issue for a software fix. It sounds as though your car has the same ailment.

Initial concerns

Are there any recurring problems with DSG gearboxes? I have read that they can judder, especially at low speeds in low gears. RG

It depends which DSG. The most troublesome is the low-torque seven-speed dry-clutch DSG, fitted with smaller engines. The high torque six-speed wet-clutch DSG is less troublesome, but requires fresh fluid and filter every four years. There is a new high-torque seven-speed wet-clutch DSG fitted to engines of 2.0 and 2.5 litres (called s-tronic in Audis), which is the best to drive. As well as that, Audis with longitudinal drivetrains had a different seven-speed wet-clutch longitudinal s-tronic that has suffered a few failures.

Walk this way

Our 2002 Honda Civic has more than 100,000 miles on the clock and is still going well, but we can't help looking around for a suitable replacement as the time to replace it will come. Our next car should be a five-door petrol hatchback, with a walk-through cab (like our present Civic), sunroof and air-con.  Any ideas? GG

Marketing led Honda to abandon the walk-through cab in about 2003. Apparently people valued somewhere to put their phone rather than the ability to get out of a car either side. It’s possible that a Citroën C4 Picasso 1.2 Puretech 130 EAT6 automatic might suit your needs.

Touring car champion

My last three cars have been larger-engined BMW 3-series Tourings. The current one is a 2008 330d. I love the refined yet still sporty performance and ride. The Touring format is great for two dogs and golf clubs, but I'm about to replace it due to high mileage. I have my eye on either a 330d or 335d xDrive. Are there any alternatives that I should consider? RB

I'd stick to a 3-series and go for an xDrive, which has much better handling. Be aware that non-EU6 diesels will be prohibited from some city centres from autumn 2019, so you need to find an EU6 car. This was compulsory from September 2015, but many diesels were already EU6 in anticipation.

Nail harm strong?

My mother’s VW Golf 1.6 TDI went for its MoT and a nail was found in the sidewall of one of the rear tyres. The garage said it would require a new tyre as sidewall damage is not repairable, which I was expecting. As the tyres were more than 30 per cent worn (the other rear tyre was down to 6mm), they recommended replacing both rears on safety grounds. True or false? AB

I don't think that's necessary on a car like a Golf 1.6 TDI. Yes on a 4WD, because the tread disparity can confuse the system.

Cheap in wolf’s clothing

I took my two-year-old Auris to a Toyota dealer for a number of reasons - one being that mpg had dropped from mid-50s to mid-40s. When I told them that I’d bought fuel from two major supermarkets they added Redex additive. It is now up to 52 and climbing. Is this the norm? IM

The Redex cleaned the deposits that cheap fuel left in the system. It’s best to use branded superunleaded petrol - that way, you won’t suffer the problems that the Redex cured.

Lot of trouble

I bought a Maserati Quattroporte in a car auction, with the motif “sold as seen.” Five miles down the road the oil pump failed, resulting in a ruined engine. Do I have any recourse? RV

Unfortunately not. “Sold as seen" means there is no form of warranty.

All roads lead to Romania

I like the look of the Dacia Stepway and wonder if an automatic version is on the way. TN

It's possible, but hasn’t yet been announced.

The banned played on

I have a seven-year old Saab, which I would like to keep, but I live in London and it is a diesel. What are my options? Could it be converted to petrol? MC

Yes, but it makes no sense. Diesels older than EU6 and petrol cars older than EU4 face prohibition from London, on pain of heavy daily penalties, from autumn 2019. Older cars could be converted at colossal expense, but would still be bound by their original EU emissions rating.

Ramp arts

My wife needs an automatic that will accommodate a mobility scooter. Any suggestions? AY

Go for an adapted vehicle with a ramp at the back, rather than a complicated hoist. Numerous companies offer adapted Citroën Berlingo Multispaces, Peugeot Partner Teepees or VW Caddy Lifes. Try: www.brotherwood.com or www.alliedmobility.com.

Tail of the unexpected

I have an occasional problem with my Seat Ibiza ST, when the boot won't open. I press the unlock button and all doors unlock except the boot, which sounds as if it's trying to unlock but the lid will not lift up. In each case, after driving along a bumpy road, the "boot open" warning light appears on the dashboard and I can stop the car and open the boot. I've tried squirting WD40, but it hasn't helped. Have you any further suggestions? TC

All you can do is replace the lock servo. These do have a hard life from salt-impregnated water being flung against the rear of the car in winter.

In the dark

I bought a 2016 Hyundai ix20 1.4 petrol, with which I'm very pleased, but it does not have daytime running lights. I thought all vehicles of a certain age had to have them fitted by law, Hyundai has said that the vehicle does not need them, but I'm not convinced? AD

Vehicle manufacturers had to fit DRLs to new types of passenger car and light goods vehicles (car-derived vans) from February 2011. Although your car was built in 2014, it's an older design that was type-approved before February 2011.

Try, conversion

I wonder if there are companies that could convert cherished vehicles to electric. I might consider it for my 1999 VW T4 Campervan if the EU and government start banning old diesels. RO

Conversion of rear-engined VW Type 2s is common in the USA. These people have been around for a long time: http://www.batteryvehiclesociety.org.uk/forums/index.php.

Civic reception

What is the most reliable, used, petrol automatic I can get for less than £8,000? PT

Honda Civic 1.8i VTEC five-speed torque converter auto, Toyota Prius or a Toyota Auris hybrid.

Golf coarse

I have a VW Golf 1.4 TSI and there is a growling noise at low speed, or when accelerating. It has been suggested this might be the air intake in the turbo. Is this a possibility and is this a known problem? JB

That is most likely to be an air intake noise because a pipe has split or come adrift; not a fault with the turbo itself. But if it’s the timing chain you’re in trouble...

Easy street

We are going to Canada and driving across British Columbia and Alberta later this year. Is there anywhere we can practise driving on the right-hand side of the road? IG

Nowhere springs to mind, but I don't think you will find driving on the right a problem. Just remember that your passenger will be on the kerb side, exactly as they are in the UK.

Age-old question...

I purchased a new Mazda in October 2008. The manual says the timing belt should be changed at 75,000 miles and I have now driven 50,000. Should I should play safe and have it changed fairly soon? DB

Play safe. Change the timing belt, water pump, timing belt tensioner and also the alternator belt (which can come off and take off the timing belt at the bottom pulley).

Turner prize

We need to sell my Rover 75 and buy a small car for local use. I am 6ft 2in and my wife has walking difficulties. We live on a main road and need to be able to turn the car around in an area measuring 20ft by 17ft. Any ideas? JJ

The Kia Venga and Hyundai ix20 make a lot of sense - both are short and tall.

Another insurance con

I have had to pay almost £1,200 to insure my Toyota Auris hybrid. I accept that my age (87) does not help, but I have been told that it is also because my car is a hybrid. Friends in their mid-eighties driving conventional 1.2- and 1.5-litre cars are paying only about half that amount. DG

Change insurer. My father was with Direct Line until he gave up driving at 92 due to macular deterioration. He was paying £360 a year, fully comprehensive, for a Toyota Auris Hybrid T-Spirit.

Missing Cat

I am trying to find out who now owns my old E-type Jaguar, MKO 200F I had it from mid-1968 through to 1982. The original colour was red, but after doing a DVLA search it now shows as black. Unless I give some form of misinformation to the DVLA, I cannot find the current owner. ME

Data protection precludes such a search. You could try the Jaguar Drivers Club, but if they know the owner they would have to ask for permission before revealing their identity to you.

Recovery channel

Where can I get reasonable European breakdown cover for a 2006 Audi A4 Cabriolet? JW

I used to recommend Britannia Rescue, but recently reader accolades have been flowing in for the RAC's continental breakdown service.

Basic instinct

I am 72 and tend to keep a car for 10 years, so the next one might be my last. We are looking to replace a Vauxhall Corsa with something similarly sized: petrol, five-door hatchback, steel wheels and air-con. I want something economical and reliable with the ability to carry five adults and handle motorway cruising. DH

Currently, the most basic car you can buy is a new Dacia Sandero 1.0. It has a decent chain-cam three-cylinder non-turbo engine (the same as in a Smart), but no radio, no electric windows and not even a spare wheel (£100 extra). Price: £5,895. The Ambiance model with a radio, electric front windows and air-con is £6,895.

Cold fact

My Mazda2, purchased new in January 2016, is a good car, but the air-conditioning failed some weeks ago. The supplying dealer tells me they have a whole batch of similar faults to deal with, but can’t say when mine will be fixed. Could I reject the car as not fit for purpose and demand a refund? PC

It’s far too late to reject it. The reason for the delay is an EC Directive insisting that air-con in new cars is filled with refrigerant R1234yf rather than the old R134a. This new refrigerant leaks, is flammable and costs five times as much as R134a.

Ground effect

I qualify for the Motability Scheme and need to choose a new car. I have a Land Rover Freelander and prefer SUV-type cars. On offer are a Hyundai Tucson S or SE, a Kia Sportage GDI or a Suzuki Vitara SZ-T or SZ4. I have not bought a car for 20 years and am lost. I need good access to the boot for both mobility scooter (using a ramp) and a collapsible wheelchair. PK

By design, an SUV is much higher off the ground than an MPV and consequently it’s much more difficult to get a mobility scooter in or out. Ideally I think you should consider something with a low rear sill - maybe a Ford Courier Tourneo or a small van-based MPV.

Relay saying something

My 2008 Audi A4 2.0 diesel has an occasional intermittent clicking sound from inside the centre console. Being intermittent it never appears when I take it in for a check. The electronic brake switch no longer makes a sound when applied but appears to operate the braking system perfectly normally. Could it be associated with this switch? RH

The electromechanical brake is just a switch that might be faulty. The clicking might be the relay refusing to accept the current because the car is moving.

Seven-year glitch?

My 50,000-mile Ford Fiesta Titanium 1.6 TDCi is seven years old. It has a full service history and MoTs have been trouble-free. If I wish to keep it for another seven years, what should I check/replace? PB

First of all it needs a fresh timing belt, tensioner, water pump and alternator belt. Sooner or later it will need new injectors.

Falling apart

I purchased a Ford Focus 1.5 TDCi new in May 2015. Do you know if it has a Euro 5 or Euro 6 engine? When would it make sense to get rid of the car? As diesel engines are being demonised at the moment, are residual values affected? KC

The 1.5 TDCIs are EU6. Yes, the demonisation of diesels and the growing realisation of the high maintenance and repair costs are killing resale values.

Transit lounge

I have a 2006 Ford Transit-based campervan that’s starting to rust around the wheel arches. It needed some welding to get through its last MoT. Is it worth spending any money fighting the rust or do I let it rot away gracefully? NT

The problem with campers is that the conversion is always worth more than the van. It’s probably bestr to get it welded.

Re: liability check

My son will shortly be buying a used car. Am I correct in saying that the dealer has to correct any faults the car may develop within six months of purchase? AG

The dealer remains liable for any significant fault that could have been present or developing on the date of sale for six months from that date of sale.

Bristling with rage

I have a 2010 Honda Insight and a car wash broke my one of my parking sensors. What do I do? AM

It depends what’s on the notices at the car wash. If the sensor was loose then it isn't the car wash management’s responsibility. If the brushes ripped it off, then it is not "reasonable" for the car wash to absolves itself from responsibility and you have a case for a small claim: https://www.gov.uk/make-court-claim-for-money/overview.

Jag of all trades

I was thinking of buying a 2016 Jaguar XJ diesel, but friends advise against it. What are your thoughts? IG

If it is EU6, there are no potential city-centre penalties. This engine delivers 300bhp, 515lb ft of torque and consequently the performance is astonishing. You'll probably get 40mpg, but the XJ is soon to get a completely new body and the engine is timing belt, not chain. An alternative is the new BMW G30/G32 5-series, which steers and handles exceptionally well.

Lever pool

I’m looking for a VW Golf-sized car with petrol engine and manual handbrake, but can’t find anything suitable. GK

The Skoda Octavia, Ford Focus estate, Kia Cee’d and Hyundai i30 SWs still have manual handbrakes, but pretty much everything else has an electromechanical parking brake.

Form of the top

Do you rate VW convertibles (not the Beetle)? A friend says soft-tops are more likely to let in water and/or be damp, plus they are noisy and cold in the winter. Do you think those comments are valid? CM

Depends which soft-top. The Golf convertible is based on the 2004-2009 Golf Mk5, not the Mk6 or Mk7. Folding hard-tops like the VW Eos can let in more water because the many parts of the complex roof are hard to seal.

Tell me when

My 2012 Ford Fusion has done 22,580 miles. When should the timing belt and water pump be changed? On my last Fusion I was told they needed replacing after 11 years. by which time it wasn’t worth spending the money on the car. CS

I say five years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first. A new timing belt, tensioner, water pump and auxiliary belt are all due fairly shortly.

Carrying capacity

I need a car to accommodate my wife’s mobility scooter and thought of changing our 2008 Mazda3 for something suitable. Handling is not important and mileage will be very low. I don’t want to spend more than about £5,000. AW

The best options are the Citroën Berlingo Multispace, Peugeot Partner Teepee, Renault Kangoo combi and Fiat Doblo combi.

Stamp duty

My May 2011 Skoda Yeti 1.2 TSI had a replacement timing chain at 46,000 miles. Now, at 67,000 miles, the fault is beginning to reappear. The local dealer only replaced the first one after I made a fuss and called Skoda UK. However, they do not wish to offer any financial help with the cost of replacing the second one, as it was more than two years old. RG

The problem was manufacturer cost-cutting that forced the supplier of the chain links to extend the life of the stamping tools. Links stamped out late in the life of the machinery had rough edges and burrs and that's what led to the problem. It was hard to predict whether you’d get a good chain or a bad one. In the end, the VW Group switched to timing belts.

Family heirloom

Friends of ours have a 1959 Aston Martin DB4 that needs to be sold. How would you advise them and who should they approach to get the best price? There seem to be several sharks around. PH

There is serious money here. Depending on whether it's a DB4, a DB4GT or, even better, a DB4 Zagato, and depending on condition, they're probably looking at a price range between £250,000 and £1,000,000 plus. Rare DB4 Zagatos have made as much as £10,000,000. A Classic Auction is the way to go. There is a sale on September 23 at www.historics.co.uk, who are very nice people. You need to alert the action house a couple of months earlier to get a good write-up in the catalogue. Auction houses typically take 10 per cent plus VAT of the hammer price from the vendor, plus an entry fee. Try historics.co.uk, brightwells.com, bonhams.com and silverstoneauctions.com.

Fluid situation

I mistakenly poured anti-freeze into the screenwash reservoir of my BMW. What is the best way forward? PD

Drain it completely, dispose of the anti-freeze responsibly, flush it out several times and replace with the correct BMW screenwash. Antifreeze can take paint off your car. One way to get the bad stuff out is to bury a hose in the reservoir and blast out the contents, but that risks contaminating your local storm drains.

Blue wail

Can you advise on the consumption rate of AdBlue in mpg? I have a 2016 Ford Transit Custom 2.2-litre van with an AdBlue capacity of 4.6 gallons. The information would be useful for calculating topping-up intervals rather than waiting for low-level warning messages to appear in the information display. According to the vehicle manual the tank may either be filled at a “fuel station pump or from a portable container”. Have you ever seen such a pump? NG

AdBlue is normally consumed at between 4-8 per cent of the rate of diesel. You can buy it in 10-litre plastic containers for £12-£16, or refill directly from the AdBlue pump at the truck filling side of almost every service station. If you carry your own supply, be careful to secure it. It's nasty stuff with an unpleasant odour.

Torquing incessantly

I like the traditional style of the Rover 75 Tourer and Jaguar X-type estate. Do their petrol auto versions have torque converter transmissions? IB

Yes. Details can be found in the relevant model entries at www.honestjohn.co.uk.carbycar.

Trading places

I am going to sell my Mercedes SLK 350 and buy an E400 cabriolet. The trade-in price is poor: only £8,800 for my immaculate 35,000-mile 2009 car with full MBSH. So I intend to sell privately. What is the safest method of payment? JA

Take the money in a bank as a cash transaction then immediately credit it to your account. This ensures that payment cannot be revoked by the purchaser.

Talk - or you walk

There is a 2016/66 BMW 5-series for sale at a local main dealer. It has a nice spec and a decent price, but is registered as an ex-demo that was sold and almost immediately returned. The dealer is vague about the reason. Would you be bothered about this? JM

Yes. Get him to be specific. There is now a stunning new G31 5-series Touring, which could be one reason. Another might be that the buyer did not like the ride if it was fitted with 20-inch wheels and 35/30 profile front and rear tyres. Or there might have been a fault.

Ghia change

I am in a quandary about what to buy to replace my beloved but ancient 2003, 160,000-mile Ford Focus Ghia TDCi estate. I am keen to get a seven-seater (extra seats for occasional use) and my kids are keen on an SUV. I don't want something too big, but need it to be comfortable. Low running costs are essential and my budget is about £15,000. HH

There’s not much choice at that price point. A used Kia Sorento KX2 Nav manual would be OK, but of course it is a diesel and that means potentially expensive replacement parts at some point. If you can increase your budget, you could consider the Nissan X-Trail 1.6 DIGT seven-seater manual.

Chrysler billing

I own a 2005 Chrysler 300C saloon. The car has developed a water leak from behind the rear-view mirror. I have researched this problem and found that a recall was issued in the USA. Chrysler UK informs me that what happened in America means nothing to them. Now the dealer wants to charge me £110 plus VAT to look at this problem. The car has done only 55,000 miles from new. Do I have any redress? AS

None whatsoever, I’m afraid. All rights you may have had under Sale of Goods case law end after six years, unless there is a safety recall.

Hatch too hot?

We have a 2011 VW Golf 1.6 diesel. Before the “dieselgate” software upgrade its running temperature on the flat at 60-70 mph was about 90deg. Since the upgrade it's now running at more than 100 degrees. I phoned VW and asked if this is an expected effect. They had no answer and told me that if there was something wrong I should go back to the dealer who performed the upgrade. Any ideas? RS

It runs hotter because reducing the NOx creates more soot. The extra heat comes from the particulate filter having to regenerate more often to burn off the soot.

Sting like a B

I bought a Ford B-Max automatic in 2013 and from the beginning I have experienced a gearbox judder. We are considering changing the car for another B-Max, as we like everything else about the car, but has this problem now been rectified? RE

Getrag is supposed to have come up with a working clutch pack for the Powershift, but I will believe that only when the complaints stop coming in. Some other Ford models have reverted to a six-speed torque converter automatic transmission instead of the Powershift. I’m told Ford will end B-Max production in Romania in September, so I don’t imagine the car being re-engineered.

Spider from marred

What is your opinion of the Fiat 124 Spider. It seems cheap. I also understand it is based heavily on the Mazda MX-5. Are different engines available? I like the look of the Fiat, but I am 6ft 2in and worry about access. FO

I drove one a couple of weeks ago and found it disappointingly soft compared to the MX-5. In my view it doesn't handle nearly as well. Engines are Fiat's 1.4 belt-cam turbo 140, or a 1.4 180 in the £30,000 Abarth version that is supposed to be much better. Both are built by Mazda in Hiroshima.

Open to suggestions

I am retired and looking at a two-seater for summer driving. I have looked at an old Porsche Boxster (but been warned about a bearing problem), a BMW Z3 2.8 and - the complete opposite - an MGB GT. My mileage would be about 3,000 over the summer, then I’d put the car in the garage for the winter. LH

An MGB GT doesn't really do the job. I think the BMW Z3 is a sound choice, if not a great to drive. A nice 1.9 four-cylinder sold at Historics Ascot for £1,500. I'd have bought it if I had somewhere to keep it, but I don't. The 2.8 has a lot more grunt but prices tend to be higher. Repairs on a Boxster could come to three times its value. Strangely, the safest bet is the original 205bhp Boxster 986 2.5.

Can’t before the horse?

I passed my driving test after the 1997 cut-off date. Can I tow a horsebox trailer, or do I need to take a towing test? WP

It depends on weight. This is what you can tow without taking a B+E test. With a towing vehicle under 3,500kg you may tow a trailer with a maximum authorised mass (MAM) not exceeding 750kg (eg a small garden trailer). And you can tow a trailer with a MAM exceeding 750kg as long as the actual weight of the vehicle and trailer does not exceed 3,500kg and the actual weight of the trailer does exceed the unladen weight of the towcar. All the rules plainly explained here: www.bhs.org.uk/our-charity/working-with-the-law/driver-licensing-law. Use this to get the rules from the horse's mouth: www.gov.uk/towing-rules. Use this to book your test, if required: www.gov.uk/car-trailer-driving-test.

Time to quit smoking

I have a 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe Diesel with 97,000 miles on the clock. When I drive it from cold it smokes when the accelerator is pressed, but that clears once the engine is warm. Is there anything I can do? GG

That's probably because some of the glow plugs aren’t glowing, so the fuel is not being burned in those combustion chambers until the engine heats up and runs on compression ignition. Get the plugs checked.

Dark side of the moan

Driving extensively on the M3, M4 and A303, I am always amazed, and very concerned, at the number of cars I pass in poor weather in daylight that have only their front lights on. JR

Daytime Running Lights have been compulsory on all new cars since February 2011 (though they can still be switched off). It is not compulsory for them to light up at the back, though some manufacturers such as Peugeot/Citroën are now fitting rear DRLs. In heavy rain, drivers need to switch their lights on so the rear lights can be seen by other motorists. Quite a lot of drivers get into their cars at night, see the glow of the DRLs in front of them and forget that their rear lights are not then lit. It’s best to leave your lights on automatic, where this is fitted.

Open and shut case

We travelled from Bristol to Orpington and on the M4 there was no mention that the M3 was closed around the M25 and we didn’t realise until we got there. On the M25 I have seen messages regarding road closures down in Kent and Sussex, so why not on the M4 regarding the M3? NF

That is a bit strange because the M3 has been closed between Junctions 2 and 3 at weekends for quite a while. You have to complain to Highways England: www.gov.uk/government/organisations/highways-agency.

Hit and missing

My stationary car was bumped by another driver. I have an independent witness and the other party has admitted liability.  However, despite me obtaining and supplying two quotes (VW £250, independent £140), the other party is now ignoring communication.  Are my only options to stump up the cash myself or contact my insurer? I also note my Direct Line insurance renewal quote has increased from £220 to £316. I am thus reluctant to inform my insurer. LM

You could try a small claims case against the other party: www.gov.uk/make-court-claim-for-money/overview, but if he/she makes a claim you have to disclose it to your own insurer and your premium will probably increase again as a consequence. It might be more expedient just to pay up the £140.

Bending the rules?

I recently bought a car from a dealer. I now think it is possible that it had been in an accident. Was the dealer bound to tell me if this was so? MS

Only if the dealer could possibly have known. It’s a requirement of the 2008 Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations.

Artistic licence

A friend is struggling financially, but badly needs a car, preferably a modest MPV/estate. Something like a Citroën Xsara Picasso or a Vauxhall Zafira would be perfect. His budget is only £750 and he was thinking of looking for something with a year’s MoT that would see him through until he can afford something better. Can you offer any advice? LW

A Xsara Picasso 2.0 HDI was the best (actually brilliant), but check very carefully for rust, especially in the sills.

Much ado about nothing

I bought a one-year-old, 6,000-mile, Kia Approved Cee'd 2 petrol hatchback for £12,300. I was told it came direct from Kia's importation facility at Immingham, but have since found that its previous owner was Hertz. Should I be pleased or furious? And if the latter should I seek some redress? PV

Absolutely nothing to worry about. At least 50 per cent of all cars resold after 6-18 months are ex-rental. A variety of different drivers early in a car's life is good for it rather than bad. It helps to run it in better. The days when Hertz used to hire Mustangs to weekend racers are long gone.

Sooty and sweep

I have a 2008 Honda Accord. The diesel particulate filter light has come on twice in just a month. I’m going to get my second forced regeneration tomorrow at a cost of £100. In fairness, I have done quite a few short journeys, but I never see any warning light to prompt me to do an active regenerating drive. How often do I need to do this? Does it look likely that I will need a new DPF? The car has done 80,000 miles. IM

A DPF fills up with two substances: soot and ash. The more ash it collects, the less capable it becomes of regenerating the soot and by 80,000 miles there will be a substantial amount of ash in there. It might be possible to send it away to be chemically cleansed by the Ceramex process that costs about £300. Or your Honda dealer will happily sell you a new DPF for £1,000 or so...

A handful of dust

I have a 2011/61 Toyota Avensis TR D-4D and white dust regularly blows out of the air vents when I put on the air-con. CM

This must have something to do with the heater trunking. A first guess is that someone has removed the pollen filter from the system. A second is that the pollen filter has fallen apart. A third is that someone has stashed an illegal substance behind the vents.

Balancing act

You state that Michelin Cross Climate Tyres “must” be fitted to all four wheels. I’ve had two fitted to the front of my Audi Q5, intending to replace the rears when they wear out. What is the problem? Nothing was said at the garage that fitted them. MK

A disparity between front and rear in adverse conditions, such as severe rainfall, frost, ice or snow, could - in extremes - put the car into a spin that its traction control systems are unable to prevent.

The Look of love

I have a 10-year-old Peugeot 206 1.4 Look that has done 47,000 miles. It has been a great car, but I am thinking of changing. Any advice on something similar? I don’t need lots of gadgets. ST

Consider the Suzuki Baleno 1.0T Boosterjet, Suzuki Swift 1.0T Boosterjet, Kia Rio 1.0 TGDI 100, Peugeot 2008 1.2 Puretech 110, Citroën Cactus 1.2 Puretech 110, Citroën C3 1.2 Puretech 110 and Kia Rio 1.0 TGDI 100.

Not asking for much

I want to buy a small, reliable and comfortable SUV with an automatic box. Any suggestions? JF

Look at a Peugeot 2008 1.2 Puretech 110 EAT6 or a Suzuki Vitara S 1.4T Boosterjet 6-speed auto.

Big train

I like my two-year-old Ford Kuga auto, but I’ve recently driven a Ford Galaxy MPV and its VW Sharan cousin and quite fancy one or the other. I like toys, would appreciate an idiot parking aid and folding mirrors are a must. A decent sound system would be good too. HM

The Galaxy has been very different from a Sharan or Seat Alhambra since 2006. The Galaxy has always been nicer to drive, but the Sharan/Alhambra is a little bit bigger.

Failing relationship

I purchased a new Nissan Pulsar with 1.2 DIG-T engine in March 2016. In January 2017 it went back to the dealer for three days to replace the pulleys on the drive chain as they had started to disintegrate. Four months later they are failing again. Is this a common problem with this engine and what are my rights? DM

This is the first such report I've received on the 1.2 DIG-T/1.2 TCE, which is a Renault engine introduced in the Mégane in 2011. There was some trouble with piston rings in Qashqai engines built in 2014/2015. I think you have every right to demand a new engine, which is what Qashqai owners have been getting.

Pedigree chum

My friend would like to replace her Renault 5 Prima 1.4 with a similar car. She would like a petrol automatic and has short-listed the Hyundai iX20,Toyota Yaris Icon Tec and Honda Jazz. Would you recommend one of these? AW

The Hyundai ix20 now has a six-speed dual clutch automatic transmission. No problems so far. The Yaris and Jazz both have CVT-7s that have a very reliable pedigree. If she’s going for a Yaris, it’s best to go for the hybrid. Of the three cars the Jazz has the most versatile interior. The Kia Venga is identical to the ix20 but has a longer, seven-year warranty.

Pitch sensitive

I would like to buy a classic VW camper van. I am not very good with mechanical things, however, so does it make sense to consider buying such an old model? MD

The original "split-window" Type 2s have sold for up to $300,000 in the USA and good ones, modified with up-to-date engines, suspension and brakes, are generally at least £50,000 - and often much more - over here. Second-generation models are more practical, with better engines and disc brakes, but are still best when fitted with updated engines. Avoid any of the later, squarer type with water-cooled flat-four engines. As ever with classics, it pays to do your resaearch and buy from a specialist.

X marks the spot

We have a 2004 Saab 9-5 auto, but it is a diesel and we live in London. I can foresee a moment soon when we will not be able to afford to park it anywhere, and not even be allowed to drive it to many places. Would a petrol Jaguar X-type auto be a reasonable replacement, with sufficient room for my long legs? DS

Jaguar X-types came with Ford 2.5 and 3.0 V6s and four-wheel drive, or a front-drive 2.1 V6 for which parts are scarce. If you live in London, you have to get an EU4 petrol model or you face the same penalties as non-EU6 diesels from autumn 2019. EU4 was applied from January 1 2006, though many cars for up to a year previously were EU4 in anticipation.

Vent trickle

I've just found that the spare wheel well in my 2013 Ford Focus contains about an inch of lavender-coloured water. Although we have had some heavy rain recently, there is no sign of any wetness or damp on the boot flooring or surrounding trim. Any ideas please? KD

It’s probably coming in through the one-way cabin vent flaps between the lower sides of the load area and the bumper valence extensions. These are usually hidden behind carpet.

Waiting game

We tested a new Porsche Macan and it’s impressive, but I’m told we’d have to wait for up to eight months to get a 2.0-litre petrol auto (although that came down to five months when I spoke to them later). With some modest options it comes to £50,000, all strictly list price. Are we obliged to buy at list price? It’s anathema to me, a car buyer/seller for 31 years. Any advice? AG

You buy according to supply and demand. If supply exceeds demand cars are discounted. If demand exceeds supply cars aren't discounted. Just watch out for salesmen pretending that demand exceeds supply when it doesn’t.

Not my type

I was considering buying a Jaguar F-type that’s less than six months old and has supposedly done 3,000 kilometres. Looking at the brake discs there seem to be marks that indicate it has been driven hard or it has done many more miles. KB

An F-type without carbon ceramic brakes will suffer if driven hard on a circuit, as I suspect this one might have been.

Insure? Unsure

I have just received my insurance renewal and it has the wording "Guaranteed no-claim discount does not protect the overall price of your insurance policy. The price of your insurance policy may increase following an accident or claim even if you were not at fault.” It seems to me that whatever happens they will increase the premium and this "guarantee" is virtually worthless. TL

The experience of other readers bears this out. “Protected NCD” doesn't seem to mean anything so isn’t worth buying.

Note to self

I have just received an "offer" from a local agent to have my 12-plate Nissan Note petrol Terraclean processed. Is this any good? MW

If the car has a direct-injected engine and the inlet valves are getting coked up with carbon, then Terraclean is appropriate. If the car is running fine, don't fix what ain't broke.

Take a soft approach

I need to replace all four tyres on my 2008 Mercedes A-class, but with what? Present size is 195/55 R16 and there’s too much choice. I drive only 6,000 miles annually, at moderate speeds, and would like affordability and comfort above all. DW

Try a soft all-weather tyre such as Michelin Cross Climate or Goodyear Vector 4 Seasons Gen II.

Scent packing

I part-exchanged my Toyota Auris for a six-month-old Yaris. In recent very hot weather a distinct smell of tobacco has become evident and it appears the car had been deodorised but that this has failed. What would you recommend? RM

Find a valeter who will set off a deodorising canister inside the car, or buy one from Halfords. Basically you take the car off the road somewhere, set the ventilation to recirculate with the vents open and the fan on full, start the engine, set the thing off inside the car and leave it idling for 10 minutes or so.

Pump my ride

I have a 2005 Volvo XC70 D5 with 68,000 miles and full service history. What should be replaced in preventative terms if I keep this car for another three to five years? It already has a new water pump. PJ

If the water pump was replaced then the timing belt and tensioner must have been, too. Belt, water pump, tensioner and auxiliary belt will need to be replaced again in five years or 60,000 miles. It would be sensible to change the coolant and it will need fresh Haldex clutch fluid and filter. Annually, you should test the brake fluid for moisture content and contaminants and replace as necessary. If it’s an auto, it might be worth changing the transmission fluid.

Loitering within tent

A lot of camper vans have a flexible solar panel to keep their leisure batteries charged. I know someone whose camper has a 42-inch TV, games consoles and all sorts of things and the battery is good for a week, just being topped up by a small flexible panel on the roof. So why don't manufacturers of electric vehicles build in some solar panels. Parking outside for a few hours could increase range. RO

Toyota offers a solar panel roof on the Prius Plug-in Business Edition for an extra £1,500. Based on annual sunshine statistics, Toyota says the solar panel captures enough power to drive 1,150 kilometres a year in EV mode in Rome, or 659 kilometres in London.

Taking Cat to vet

I recently took delivery of a new 3.0-litre supercharged Jaguar F-Pace. The dealer has been hopeless the whole way through my purchasing experience. The car broke down after 150 miles and, having been recovered on a breakdown lorry on Monday, by Friday I had still heard absolutely nothing. I have lost confidence in Jaguar and my car. Can I ask for my money back? JD

Within 28 days of purchase the Consumer Rights Act 2015 theoretically give you the absolute right to reject it, but this might not be upheld by a county court. I would not use the words “I have lost confidence in Jaguar and my car.” Stick to the fact that the car has not proven to be “of satisfactory quality”.

Swift decision

I wish to replace my 38,000-mile 2003 Mini Cooper with a similarly compact sporty model that has better performance. Could you recommend something suitable? SB

The new Suzuki Swift 1.0T Boosterjet is worth a look. It’s very sensibly priced – and even better with the six-speed torque converter auto. A new Kia Picanto 1.0T is coming soon and should be a terrific little car. Meanwhile, the VW Up 1.0T 90 and Up GTI 115 are on the way. There might soon also be a Peugeot 108 with the 1.2 Puretech 130 engine and six-speed box.

Middle earth

I am looking at buying a medium-size SUV and the Porsche Macan seems to stand out. Your thoughts would be appreciated. DC

It’s gorgeous to look at and great to drive, but it has to be a V6 (preferably a 3.6 V6 turbo petrol rather than the VW Golf-engined 2.0 litre TSI). The very obvious alternative is a Jaguar F-Pace.

Back to the future?

I started driving in rear-engined cars like the Fiat 600/850 and Simca 1000 and was very fond of them, apart from poor screen demisting. I am interested in the new Renault Twingo as it's rear engined, but does it suffer the same drawbacks? I also note the Twingo has different size tyres front and rear.Could I fit just two winter tyres to the rear of a Twingo? GR

The Twingo and Smart ForTwo and ForFour share the same engines and drivetrains; happily now a choice of manual or Renault's EDC auto, not the horrible Smart automated manual. It's possible that fitting the Twingo with wider tyres at the rear is what takes the fun out of the handling, because it simply isn't as enjoyable as it should have been. And you can't put modern cold-weather tyres on the rear only. Winter or all-weather tyres have to be fitted to all four wheels to avoid instability.

Faster but slower

The delivery of our new Audi A3 1.4 TFSI s-line cabriolet, has been significantly delayed by an unannounced decision by Audi to upgrade the engine to a 1.5 TFSI. Should we cancel the order or does having the new engine justify the additional three-month wait? SW

That's interesting. The new 1.5 Evo engine is coming on stream in VW Group cars and the Golf and A3 are getting it first. It is an improvement over the very good 1.4 TSI, but a three-month wait means you'll miss the best of the summer.

Keep on runnin’

I have a September 2016 BMW 320d auto on a two-year lease. It has now done about 35,000 miles and hasn’t missed a beat. It has a Euro 6-compliant engine.With all the talk of diesel tolls in cities, do you think I should hand the car back and switch to petrol, or purchase the BMW for about £15,500? AG

I don't think you'll find anything that size with better economy. I ran a 320d ED for six months and 7,125 miles, averaging 63.25mpg.

Civic reception

I had an unsolicited telephone call from my local Honda dealer suggesting that I change my 2008 Accord for a new Civic. I convinced her that I really didn't want a Civic and that, as you can't buy new Accords any more, my next car would probably be a Mazda6. Then she admitted that she had several people who would be interested in buying my Accord and asked me to give her first refusal. I think I'll keep it. WC

You should try the new Civic 1.5 180 Prestige CVT. It's almost the size of an Accord and steers, drives and handles a lot better. They’re not cheap, though.

Transit lounge

I have a 1991 Ford Transit camper with a 2,000cc petrol engine that has an LPG conversion. I run it on gas all the time because it’s cheaper. Where do I stand concerning emissions in the present in Europe and in the future in the UK? Nothing seems to be mentioned regarding gas-powered vehicles. KH

Your vehicle will be classified according to its EU emissions rating when it was new, so it won't even be EU1 emissions compliant, you won't be able to get a Crit-air sticker and you will be penalised for entering an increasing number of European city centres. CO2 emissions are about 10 per cent lower from burning LPG than from burning petrol. After initial enthusiasm due to low emissions, the EC went cold on LPG about 20 years ago and I don't know why.

Général Motors

I understand that Vauxhall/Opel is being sold to Peugeot. Could you tell me what the likely implications may be for a purchaser of a new Vauxhall in the UK as regards guarantee, spare parts and resale values? JR

Expect to see a gradual rationalisation of the respective car ranges, but there are no immediate worries about Vauxhall warranties, servicing and parts. The first product of this merger is the Vauxhall Crossland X, based on the floorpan of the next Citroën C3 Picasso. The next new Vauxhall will be the Grandland X, based on the 3008.

Golf handicap

My 2008 VW Golf 1.4 TSI 140 had a misfire. I had the coils spark plugs and injector seals replaced but the management light still came on. I had the inlet manifold and head replaced with new parts, but the car still has an intermittent misfire. MC

This “award winning” chain-cam turbocharged and supercharged engine has other problems, including timing chain faults and over-fuelling that can wash out the bores.

MT vessel

My Renault Sandero just stopped. What could the cause be? MT

Is it petrol or diesel? Will the engine turn on the starter motor, or not? If it won't turn at all, it's seized and you need a new engine. If the engine turns, can you hear tinkling noises? If so, unclip the timing belt cover and see if the timing belt has come off. If it has, the engine might be internally damaged or, if you're lucky, not. If it turns and there are no tinkling noises, the problem might he the fuel tank lifter pump or the fuel injection pump.

Magic runabout

I need to replace an elderly Renault Clio Sport with a four-door economical petrol car that is cheaper than the Clio to tax. I would be willing to spend approximately £5,000. SG

I'd look at a Toyota Yaris Mk II 1.3 or 1.33 manual (definitely not the MMT automated manual). They are generally very reliable, low maintenance and user-friendly.

Long and short of it

I note that queries about the length and width of cars are quite common. I probably spend too much spare time pondering whether various lottery-win models will fit my driveway, but this site, makes the task easier: automobiledimension.com/car-comparison.php. DB

Many thanks. That's a useful site, particularly for comparing widths of similar cars. The problem is, it only gives body widths and there are three widths that affect decisions: body width, body width with mirrors folded and body width with mirrors out. Trying to get all of them from a manufacturer is like getting power out of a Morris Minor.

Grand day out

I bought a one-owner 2011 Ford Kuga 2.0 from a main dealer in January. It has so far been excellent but as it came without a service book I wondered what I should ask for when I have the next service. DN

If it's diesel it now needs a timing belt, water pump, tensioner and auxiliary belt on age grounds, as well as a very comprehensive service. It costs £800 to £1,000 to do all of it properly.

Long, hot simmer

I own a Skoda Octavia TDI. You often advocate leaving a turbocharged engine to simmer at idle for a short while before switching off after a long journey. How does this square with stop/start technology that will kick in if one comes to a standstill at a motorway incident? VS

The stop/start system should not stop the engine if the turbo is too hot or if there is not enough power in the battery. You can always keep the engine running simply by dipping the clutch.

Blues bothers

For the second time within a few months, the AdBlue display on my 2016 Skoda Superb SE-L Executive 190 DSG dropped suddenly from 5,000-6,000 miles left, to warning mode (650 miles) to not starting. The first time it took the dealer nearly two days to sort out the problem, which they blamed on software. It’s happened again. What should the dealer be doing this time round? AC

This is a new one on me. I would guess that the car’s selective catalytic reduction system is using AdBlue, but the gauge that tells you how rapidly it is using AdBlue and how much is left is not working properly. Have you tried topping it up? It might even be that the gauge only warns you at all when the AdBlue is running low.

House of common

My wife won’t drive our lovely Volvo V60 D5 as she feels it’s too big. I have looked at the V40, which is ideal size, but this time we want a petrol automatic and that seems to be rare at Volvo. What else should we consider? AM

They’re not rare. While the T2 manual has Volvo’s own 2.0 petrol engine, the T2 and T3 have been available with 1.6 Ford engines and automatic transmissions, while the powerful T5 comes with a Powershift twin-shaft automatic. Or go for a Mazda3 2.0 6-speed auto.

Rare stake

I have a 1992 limited-edition Mazda MX-5 SE, purchased new for £17,661 (I have the original receipt). The car has been in storage for the last 12 years and is therefore in pristine condition with no accident damage and all original paintwork and has covered 58,000 miles. Is it worth anything? GS

Early MX-5s are starting to appear at classic car auctions. Yours should be worth £3,000 - although some private sellers are asking up to £5,000 which is ambitious. They can rust very badly just ahead of the rear wheels, which can write them off, which is making early MX-5s increasingly rare. This one will need a timing belt and water pump as part of the recommissioning before it is started, but it will definitely be of interest to enthusiasts. Try the club at mx5oc.co.uk

Two new arrivals

We have a baby on the way and my wife wants to trade in my BMW 4-series for a VW Touareg or Audi Q5 4x4 diesel. The problem is that I enjoy my driving, most of my 20,000 miles a year are for work and the company pays my fuel bills, so I'm trying to convince her that we should get a BMW 340i Touring. What do you think? JG

She's thinking “safety” from being higher and having more car around her, but I know where you're coming from. If a Porsche Macan V6 is out of the question, a Jaguar F-Pace 3.0 V6 might keep you both happy. Failing that, a BMW 340i GT.

Carbon cull

A friend recently arranged a carbon clean-up for his Jaguar diesel and claims he’s noticed improvements in engine smoothness and pulling power. Are there any downsides to this procedure and do you think the £100 cost would make it worthwhile for my 2007 Mercedes E320 CDi with 160,000 miles on the clock? He used www.enginecarbonclean.com. BS

I guess you mean the Terraclean process and it should produce an improvement, though I cannot guarantee this. You'll need an engine oil and filter change, too.

Arran sweater

Recently I was stranded at the northernmost tip of the Isle of Arran in a new Vauxhall Astra, with a tyre rendered unusable by a large nail in its wall. I must commend Vauxhall Assist. who not only co-ordinated recovery and sourcing/fitting of a replacement tyre, but also managed to get me to onto the following morning's return ferry to the mainland on time. Had I missed that booking I may well have had a major headache. I am sure I am not alone in regretting the demise of the spare wheel in modern cars. DB

Yes. The lack of a spare is driving ever more of us to rely on Assist systems or the AA, though manufacturers seem to be rethinking this and are increasingly offering space savers as a £110 option. You can order them for Vauxhalls.

Sticking point

Very occasionally, when I switch on to start my four-year-old Toyota Auris it will over-rev. I then switch off and restart and it is usually OK. Any ideas? TE

It might be a sticking throttle pedal switch. Toyota had some trouble with these a few years ago and instituted a worldwide recall.

Condensed milk?

The air-con of my BMW just failed again. The first time this happened, in 2006, the BMW dealer insisted that the whole unit needed replacing at a cost of £800. I had the work done. This time I went to the local branch of Formula One Autocentres. They regassed the system at a cost of £45 and everything is working again. It does make you wonder about the first solution. BP

That £800 bill would have been for a new compressor or a new condenser, but £45 is for a simple regas. Check your invoices.

Ingestion charge

I've been advised by my garage that the swirl valves in my 10-plate Volvo XC90 are failing. They've advised that the valves could be ingested into the engine and have quoted £1,600 for repairs. There is currently no noticeable impact on performance. Is this fix as critical as my garage claims? IL

Very much so, but check your area for an independent Volvo specialist who might be able to do the job more cheaply.

Repeat prescription

Our 2005 VW Passat 1.9 TDI estate had its cambelt changed at 32,000 miles in 2010. Does this need doing again after 77,000 miles? We have been quoted £395. Is this fair? MG

It needs timing belt, tensioner, water pump and auxiliary belt. That £395 may or may not cover all of this, but a new water pump is crucial because if that seizes it will throw the belt off. It's a job that should be done every five years.

Late declaration

I attended a driver awareness course in lieu of a fine for a minor offence. The police literature said specifically that this did not need to be declared to my insurer as no offence was recorded. My insurer thinks differently and treated it in the same way as an offence, almost doubling my premium. The object of the course is to make me a safer driver and my insurance should, arguably, decrease. Should we declare these or not? JS

If the insurer asks, you have to disclose the information. I would change your insurer if you can get cheaper cover from one with a more sensible attitude.

Look no further...

With car manufacturers making better diesel engines, JLR claiming modern ones are no more toxic than petrol and governments threatening doom and gloom for the diesel driver while the public has little concrete information; where can the poor punter get sensible advice? TL

Unless you do 20,000 miles a year or more, need a large van/motorhome or to tow something heavy, don't buy a diesel. Whatever legislation and punitive measures may be in the offing, the basic sums don't add up. You gain an economy benefit of 10 to 20 per cent, but you have to pay significantly more to get the diesel engine in the first place and its emissions equipment is expensive to maintain. The future for the next 10 years is petrol hybrids.

Paper wait

I had a very slight scrape in a supermarket car park but had no paperwork relating to my insurance. What should I keep in the car for such occasions? MP

Every year you will be issued with an insurance certificate along with the policy document. This is the piece of paper you need to keep with you.

Putting the boot in

Which is the safest small car for a young driver? My granddaughter was in the back of a friend’s car recently when someone crashed into them and showered her with glass from the back window. JC

Obviously a small saloon is much safer in a rear-end impact because the boot acts as a crush zone between the back of the car and the rear seat. Curiously there doesn't seem to be any Euro NCAP data for rear-end vulnerability. I can't think of any very small booted saloons on sale in the UK, but the Skoda Rapid is a reasonably priced car with a long boot. To check individual model ratings, there is an easy-to-use search facility at www.euroncap.com.

Twisted logic

I would like to tow my 1,850kg caravan with a 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK 320 petrol auto cabriolet. There is provision for a tow-bar and most makes can fit. However, my caravan expert pal says it is not a good idea to tow with a convertible as it can twist the chassis. Is he correct? PA

You’re asking for trouble. The Caravan Club says a car should tow no more than 85 per cent of its own weight and your car is 120kg lighter than what you are proposing to pull.

4 into 2 will go

We are in our 70s and need to change our present car, a BMW 420, to something that provides easier access, a comfortable ride and good driving dynamics. We are considering a smaller SUV. PS

The first thing to try is a BMW 2-series Active Tourer, preferably on 16-inch wheels with 55- or 60-profile tyres.

Revised opinion

I'm thinking of replacing my 55,000-mile 2008 Volvo V50 2.0 diesel with something similar but, in view of an annual mileage of about 6,000, petrol rather than diesel. RW

Look at the Peugeot 308 SW 1.2 Puretech 130 six-speed, with potential 50mpg economy. A revised 308 is being launched very soon.

Higher ground

We plan to trade in both our BMW Touring 330d X-Drive and our Hyundai i10 for a comfortable petrol automatic with a raised driving position and enough space for two large suitcases. We prefer estate-type bodies and are thinking of BMW X1 or Mercedes GLA. Should we be looking at anything else? Is there a hybrid that fits the bill? RN

You could check out a Kia Niro hybrid and a Toyota C-HR.

Assault on batteries?

Should I buy a three-year-old Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, or am I going to have years of bills and battery issues? PC

I haven't heard of any serious problems and recently asked Mitsubishi that very question. I’m not hearing this generally with hybrids because there's always the petrol engine as back-up. I have noticed with my father's 2010 Auris HSD that initial battery range is now very short and mpg is not as good until it has been driven a distance.

Faults economy

I am writing to ask for your advice regarding driving in neutral as an economy measure. This was suggested to economise during the war and in times of shortages. AD  

It made sense 60 years ago when cars had carburettors, but everything now has fuel injection that shuts off most of the fuel supply when the throttle is lifted so it's a complete waste of time and could even lead to engine damage. The most economical way to drive is at a steady 2,000rpm, especially for a diesel. Consistently drive a diesel at revs below that and the DPF will not regenerate properly

Safety still first

I have just had a Westfalia towbar and dedicated electrics fitted to my 2016 Audi A4 avant 2.0 TDI 190 s-tronic. The cruise control, speed limiter and Audi pre-sense are disabled while towing but fine when not towing. According to the maker, this is correct. My previous 2013 model was not affected. It seems strange to disable some of the safety features. AL

That's perfectly normal. Cruise, speed limiter and automated braking are all connected and designed to work with the standard weight of the vehicle, not when it could be almost twice as heavy when towing.

Brisker tempo

I am thinking of changing my Honda 1.4 Jazz automatic, first registered in August 2014. There is no urgent need, but I would like a little bit more acceleration. Should I wait for the new 1.0-litre turbocharged Jazz, or buy the current 1.3i VTEC? JF

In my experience the 1.3 feels slower than the 1.4. It would be best to wait for the new 1.0 turbo. It’s coming, but I don’t yet know when.

Urban worrier

I have a 20-month-old Vauxhall Astra SRI CDTI that is extremely economical - up to 70mpg and zero rated for road tax at 97g/km of CO2. In respect of the latter, what happens at a future service or MoT if that level rises? Does it move into a different tax bracket? KE

No. So far the only MoT test for a diesel is smoke opacity and that the original emission reducing equipment is still fitted. But if a car is not EU6 emissions-compliant, the driver faces increasing restrictions in terms of bringing it into cities.

Interior design course

I have a 1983 Mercedes 280CE automatic that needs some restoration (notably loose dash trim and split materials). Would you recommend complete replacement or repair, as I understand it’s possible to get ‘filler’ for the splits? RLJ

Talk to Mark Cosovich, the UK’s leading Mercedes W123 restorer: mark@w123world.com.

Briefest of all briefs

What is be the most reliable type of automatic gearbox? WA

A traditional torque converter.

The price of loyalty

My much-loved 2010/60 Mazda6 Sport D 180 hatchback has done 87,000 miles. Am I likely to hit big bills if I keep it? TS

They can have DPF regeneration problems. This dumps diesel into the sump, where it mixes with the lubricating oil to form sludge that blocks the oil strainer. I haven’t heard of this recently with the current models, however.

Planning consent

I have a 2012 Audi A1. I took out a service plan with Audi and have had three oil changes, the last in May 2016. The car is now due its annual MoT but not a service, as it has only done 38,000 miles. My husband suggests another oil change would be a good idea at this time. Do you agree? Also, the service plan lists an air filter change as one of the items included, but the garage has said this is not done till 50,000 miles and so will fall outside the plan. Should I push for this? FA

These plans are very basic and you have to pay extra for the air filter and oil change, but I would.

Honest, John?

Is a vendor (a garage) legally required to inform the buyer that a car has been involved in an accident, however minor? VT

Yes. The Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations of May 2008 (CPRs) contain prohibitions against misleading actions, misleading omissions and aggressive commercial practices, enforceable through the civil and criminal courts. They create an offence of misleading omissions which would not previously have been an offence if the customer had not asked the right questions.

Direct debit

I rang Direct Line to add my 32-year-old daughter to my insurance over a long weekend. For this they charged me the outrageous sum of £1.10. It wouldn’t even have covered the cost of drawing up and posting the paper certificate. I was flabbergasted. AI

Outstanding. I’m getting some very favourable reports about Direct Line at the moment.

The only way in Essex

I am starting a new job that involves a daily round trip of 100 miles. It is mainly on country roads, with a stint on the M11. I am looking for a petrol or hybrid car. My main priorities are safety, comfort and reasonable running costs. I have about £30,000 available and am considering the Toyota Prius, Mercedes C-class, BMW 3- or 4-series or a Lexus. I aim to keep the car for up to seven years. GZ

A plain Prius hybrid (not the plug-in) makes good sense, or possibly a Lexus IS300h (though that will use more fuel). For style, ride comfort and handling, consider a Toyota C-HR hybrid. Or spend less money and go for an Auris HSD. Petrol/hybrid running costs are likely to be significantly lower than a diesel because of reduced maintenance and repairs.

Doncaster rover

I called in at Tamworth services on the M42 and was charged £1.49 a litre for superunleaded. That’s taking the proverbial. In disgust, I put in enough to get home and no more. At home in Doncaster I pay about £1.24 – £1.12 less per gallon. BN

That’s shocking, but a good reason to avoid motorways.

Pace attack

My wife has a one-year-old Range Rover Evoque automatic that she loves, but for two issues. She is concerned about driving a diesel, even though it’s Euro 6 compliant, and she would like something slightly bigger. She quite fancies a Lexus. What would you advise? PR

Jaguar Land Rover’s new Ingenium petrol engines are now being fitted to the F-Pace. You’ll soon be able to get them in the Range Rover Evoque and Land Rover Discovery Sport, too (as well as the Jaguar XE, XF and F-Type). I wasn’t very impressed by the Lexus NX hybid. She might prefer the Toyota C-HR. Petrol hybrids are also on the way from BMW, Mercedes, VW and Audi.

Easy answer

Which would be the better buy, a VW Polo automatic or a Toyota Yaris hybrid? EP

Pending release of the new Polo, I’d for the Toyota.

Glowing example

Even in summer we have rainy days with poor visibility and so many muppets drive in dirty, hard-to-see cars with no lights.  Why don’t all cars have their side (running) lights connected to the ignition system? Volvo introduced it in about 1975. PW

European Union Directive 2008/89/EC requires all passenger cars and small delivery vehicles first EU Type Approved on or after February 7 2011 to be equipped with Daytime Running Lights. Some manufacturers are now making the rear lights come on automatically as well.

Hound baggage

Can you advise us about the options available for an electric/hybrid car that has a boot area large enough for two Labrador-sized dogs? This is to replace a Land Rover Discovery Sport. Price is not an issue, but I’m not interested in a Tesla. RB

Your best bets are a Toyota Auris Touring Sport hybrid, a Toyota RAV4 hybrid, a Toyota Prius Plus or a Kia Niro hybrid.

Hasta mañana

I will be taking my 2006 Mercedes C180 to Spain but I was having a hard time finding breakdown cover since the car is now 11 years old. You suggested www.footmanjames.co.uk/classic-motor-breakdown-cover and it proved to be an excellent tip. They gave me a policy that is not only cheaper than I was paying before, but also provided home start as well as European cover. I am delighted. PW

That’s brilliant. Thank you for the feedback.

Beyond the pail

Do you have any advice on using a pressure washer to clean the bodywork on my Toyota Auris? AF

What's wrong with a bucket and sponge? That way, there’s no chance of taking the paint off. It is always best to wash a car in the rain. The rain loosens the surface dirt and rinses the car perfectly with soft water, so you don't have to chamois it down afterwards.

Consumer rights? Wrong...

You often warn about the possible pitfalls of selling your car to a private buyer, but the Consumer Rights Act raises another issue. If your old car develops a fault within 30 days, and that fault was not clearly explained at the point of sale, you will have to take the car back and issue a refund. AC

The Consumer Rights Act 2015 does not apply to private sales.

Much ado about nothing

My 2006 Skoda has an automatic gearbox. In the ‘park’ position the road wheels are locked. If the car was hit by another vehicle in ‘park’ mode, would the gearbox be damaged? If so, it would seem safer to leave it in ‘neutral’ with the handbrake on. GE

Leave it in ‘park’. That's the safest way with any automatic. Some won’t let you remove the ignition key until you’ve selected ‘park’.

10,000 over par

I have been offered a 1992 VW Golf GTi for £500, but it is in poor condition and really needs complete restoration. How much might this cost and what would the car then be worth? HS

It depends on mechanical condition and levels of rust. A full resto could cost you anything from £5,000-£20,000 for a car that would then be worth about £10,000. Be very careful. If there’s any rust near the front screen surround, walk away because that's very difficult to repair and will be indicative of more rot elsewhere.

Smart choice

My 2003 Smart Roadster is nearing retirement. As they are no longer made, what would you suggest for a modern replacement that’s as much fun to drive? HP

A Mazda MX-5 is a lot bigger than it used to be, but that’s the obvious answer.

Distortion bar

Is it possible to have a car number plate without figures? JH

Not in the UK. Plates always feature a combination of letters and numbers. If you see what appear to be only letters, they are corrupted numbers. It’s illegal to mess around with numbers to make them look like letters.

Tidings of comfort

Can you explain why or how fitting smaller diameter wheels can improve ride comfort? GF

Shocks from road surfaces are absorbed by the suspension and tyres, not by the wheels. For the same rolling circumference, a smaller wheel leaves more tyre between the rim and the road and creates a more comfortable buffer.

Mind of its own

My diesel car revs itself when the engine is warm, emitting grey smoke. What is wrong? EN

The sump level is too high, so the compression ignition engine is running on its sump oil. Siphon some out and try to find out why it is dumping diesel into the sump. It’s probably the active DPF regeneration not working properly.

Petrol patrol?

With our reliance on diesel engines in goods vehicles and cargo ships, how much do private cars actually contribute to the planet's problems? TE

HGVs got particulate filters and AdBlue systems long before diesel cars did. The thing is, the only way to move stuff around efficiently is by using diesel ships and diesel trucks. We don't need diesel cars and we certainly don't need diesel cruise ships.

Wind of change

My VW Scirocco GT 2.0 TSI DSG is coming up for 50,000 miles and its fifth service. Is there anything out of the ordinary I should be replacing? RC

The six-speed wet clutch DSG needs a fluid and filter change if it hasn't already had one. Get them to make sure the chain tensioners aren't wearing. I'd run it on Shell V-Power to help keep the inlet valves cleaner. (It's a DI engine, so fuel doesn't come in through the valves, but Shell’s formulations seem to keep them cleaner.)

Straight talking

I want to change my 2008 Honda Jazz auto for something similar – ie automatic, retractable mirrors, not too wide, plenty of headroom. But I am getting older and want a more supportive seat. Any ideas? CS

You will sit a little more upright in a Hyundai ix20 or a Kia Venga. Another possibility is a Citroën C3 Picasso. All three of these cars are quite old, so could be due for an update in the near future.

Still very much in Vogue

For the past 10 years I have driven a Range Rover P38 Vogue with a 4.6 engine. It is starting to show its age (paintwork and rattles). I am retired and do not do many miles. I do not like the shape of newer models, so have been looking for a similar car to my 2000 model with fewer miles. How would a 4.0 engine compare with my 4.6? JW

The original Range Rover engine was an aluminium Buick V8 that GM sold to Rover because it was too expensive to make. The 4.6 in the P38 was the maximum size for this engine - it couldn’t be bored out any further. The 4.0 was a midway development and is usually more reliable.

Security clampdown

A good friend died suddenly and his vehicle is parked on the drive outside his house. I am afraid to say there has been a spate of thefts in our area. The vehicle is still insured for several months but, since the policyholder has died, would the car be covered if it was stolen? IG

Probably not, because of the strange way insurance works in the UK. A private car is insured to a person but is not itself insured. If you are worried, fit a wheel clamp or a Disklok to the steering wheel.

Four Michelin stars

I need some new 185/55x15 tyres for my 2008 Honda and would appreciate the usual benefits, ie low road noise and a comfortable ride. CM

Happily, Michelin does Cross Climates in 185/55 R15. These are the best all-round tyres: excellent ride and steering feel, low noise, long life, brilliant in adverse conditions and with no fuel economy penalty. But you must fit them to all four wheels at the same time.

Ship replacement

I need to replace my 17-year-old Volvo V70. I need a fast petrol manual car, big enough for five people and university luggage, for under £20,000. What would you recommend? JM

Try to find a used current model Skoda Superb or Superb Estate with the 1.4 TSI 150 engine. That makes the most sense.

Blue collar worker

Your advice to avoid diesel on the grounds of pollution and impending toll charges leaves me confused. I have a new Jaguar XE with an AdBlue cap. It seems that this feature is designed to reduce the NOx emissions. Should I be thinking about dropping this car after the three-year lease period or soldiering on? BK

It will be EU6 compliant so does not face the impending penalty for bringing a non-EU6 diesel car into cities. But emissions kit is unlikely to be wholly reliable in the long term and beyond three years you could face substantial bills for maintenance and replacements.

Two into one will go

We bought our Nissan Micra and Subaru Forester 10 and 15 years ago respectively and they have been virtually trouble-free until recently. Unfortunately they are showing signs of age and so are we. We now only need one medium-sized car, preferably automatic, that will take an electric wheelchair in the boot and give us reliability, comfort and reasonable fuel economy. We quite like the Skoda Octavia. RFS

The Octavia estate has a big load deck, but your best bets are probably a Toyota Verso 1.8i Valvematic Multidrive or a Citroën C4 Picasso 1.2 Puretech EAT6.

Repeat warning

I am thinking of getting a Skoda Octavia 2,0-litre L&K diesel on 18-inch wheels. The sales rep said I have nothing to worry about it being diesel as it will not affect the car. Is this true? RE

Diesel emissions kit could give trouble after three years or so, but you might not keep the car that long. It would be daft to get it on 18-inch wheels with 40-profile tyres. Go for 16-inch wheels with 55s.

Tee caddy

I am looking for a smallish three-year-old automatic that would have space for a set of golf clubs plus trolley. WG

The Honda Jazz 1.4i VTEC CVT-7 has amazing interior space.

Zut, a law...

How do I get a French emissions sticker and a European accident statement? BA

This tells you all about the emissions stickers and how to get them: www.rac.co.uk/drive/news/motoring-news/law-change-for-uk-drivers-in-french-cities. You can also get the standard European accident forms from the RAC.

Let us spray

The rear nearside passenger door of my 2004 Rover 75 1.8 Connoisseur auto will only open from the outside. Do you have any ideas? My local garage suggests a sensor. PW

It’s likely to be the lock servo. If you can open the door and find a grommet in the lock face of the door, take it out and use the extended nozzle of a can of WD40 to spray the lock servo and hopefully drive out any moisture that might be causing it to stick.

Don’t worry, be happy

I own a Euro 6-compliant 2015 Volvo XC60 diesel. When the Real Driving Emissions test is applied to all registrations in September 2019, will current Euro 6 cars no longer meet the RDE standard and therefore fail their MoT? AV

No. This is only for newly registered cars. They are not going to make 10,000,000 diesel cars in the UK illegal overnight.

Sweep stake

My anti-skid warning light started showing intermittently and slowed my 2008 BMW on the motorway. The car has only done 51,000 miles, but I am told the metal discs on the half-shafts have rusted slightly and are brushing against the sensors. The repair will cost £700 as new shafts are required. Can it not be solved more simply or cheaply? MC

There is a chance that an independent BMW specialist can clean the corrosion off the ABS reluctor rings with some wire wool.

Cable car

I like the look of the Mercedes-Benz B-class electric. It generally gets good reviews. There are low-mileage 2016 models around for circa £22,000. This suggests they have depreciated by around a third compared. Are you aware of any serious cost issues or significant problems that have caused excessive depreciation? SH

Most electric cars seem to drop like a stone in value from their extremely high initial cost. Their problem is that their batteries gradually lose capacity, decreasing their range until after about five years the battery needs to be replaced at colossal cost. Renault and Nissan get around this by selling the cars and leasing batteries to customers for about £70 a month.

Road to no air

The air-con on my 2010 Renault Clio has failed. Is this an easy job to fix and will it cost me a fortune? JC

It might need a re-gas,  it might be the compressor clutch or else a holed condenser. There’s no quick, easy answer. Get it to an air-con specialist rather than a Renault garage.

Sense of perspective…

What would be the situation with Kia cars if there was a nuclear war in Korea? Does Kia have enough spare parts in Europe to guarantee the seven-year warranty? Would you suggest avoiding Korean cars? PC

Most mainstream Kias for Europe are built in Slovakia or the Czech Republic, but if there is a nuclear war we might all have rather more pressing concerns than sourcing spare parts.

Cheap accommodation

What is the most economical seven-seater for school runs and family use? GRG

"Most economical" usually means diesel and that isn't suitable for short journeys like school run, because it will clog its emissions equipment and could be very expensive to maintain. So it has to be petrol. Maybe a Citroën C4 Grand Picasso 1.2 PureTech 130 or a VW Touran with the 1.4 TSI 150 engine.

Look, don’t touch

I’m considering a dealer-imported Toyota Hiace caravan, it is a 3.0-litre 4WD auto from 1999 with 80,000 miles on the clock. Is this a good idea? BE

Presumably this is a cast-off, imported from Japan where it would have been too expensive to get it through the local MoT-style tests. There are all kinds of potential problems with this because of the non-UK parts. It could leave you stranded somewhere for weeks.

Independence day

My wife’s VW Polo SE 1.4 auto was bought in March 2007.  The mileage is just under 43,000 and it is in good condition. It will soon be four years since the cambelt was changed and the work is due again on age grounds. We have received a quotation of £750, which seems high. PB

That is outrageous but typical of the worst kind of VW dealer. Find an independent specialist who will do the whole job for £400, including water pump, tensioner and VAT.

Waxing lyrical

I have a Ford Kuga 1.5 TDCI auto on order, in shadow black metallic, I would like to maintain a showroom finish but am not sure what to apply. I have some AutoGlym Super Resin Polish and AutoGlym Aqua Wax. Is there a difference between polish and wax? What would you recommend? CN

Get Autoglym High Def wax and use that instead of polish. Polish cuts the surface of the paint to create a shine. Wax sits on top of the paint, protecting it.

Drinking problem

I was recently loaned a Mercedes-Benz 350e for three days. During this period the fuel consumption was about 28mpg, which is a significant variation from the manufacturer figure of 134mpg. Any thoughts? JG

The current NEDC lab test gives a particularly misleading reading for plug-in hybrids, because the urban test is only four kilometres, the extra-urban test is seven kilometres and a plug-in hybrid usually has an electric range of 20-30 miles. But 28mpg is very low. I had a massive Volvo XC90 T8 last year, never plugged it in (because that's impossible where I live) and I still got 35-40mpg. I would expect at least that from the 350e.

Michelin man

I have a 2014 Honda Civic Tourer, and find the ride really uncomfortable. What make of tyres would you recommend? JH

This might be due to the wheel and tyre size, which you did not identify. You can get them on 16-, 17- or 18-inch rims. I'd suggest 16-inch wheels with 205/55 R16 Michelin Cross Climate tyres for the best combination of comfort, grip and low road noise all year round

Malaise, a Four thought

I plan to buy a 2015 BMW 428i. I notice that BMW no longer appears to make this engine. If this is correct, is there a problem that caused it to be withdrawn? PT

They simply upped the power and now call it the 430i.

Current affairs

Is it true that the Toyota Prius plug-in uses more fuel than the standard car. If so, why? MW

If it hasn’t been plugged in it uses very slightly more fuel because of the extra weight of the batteries. If it has been plugged in, then your first 20-30 miles of city use could be on the batteries, so your average mpg over the first 40 miles will be exceptional, reducing slightly for every further mile you drive.

Parking census

My Citroën C3 is too big for my new garage. I am after something smaller, manual and petroI, but don't know where to start. SB

You could narrow it down to a Vauxhall Viva, Suzuki Celario, Hyundai i10 or Kia Picanto. The Picanto 1.0 three-cylinder is enormous fun to drive.

X marks the stop

It is time my 2001 2.5 Jaguar X-type. I have tried the XF and the XE, but they do not have the driver visibility that I enjoy in the X-Type. I am considering the F Pace, but am not sure whether to stay with the petrol engine version or risk the diesel. PH

So far the petrol F-Pace comes only with the 3.0 supercharged V6. The 2.0 Ingenium diesels have 163, 180 and 240bhp; the 3.0 V6 diesel has 300bhp and huge torque. Later there will be 2.0 Ingenium petrol engines with 200, 250 and 300bhp. I like it best with the 3.0 V6 petrol.

Tall order

I’m thinking about buying a Daihatsu Terios 1.5 auto 4x4. What are your thoughts? GF

They are reliable enough - and quite rare with 4WD. Do you really want 4WD? The height of the car compromises its handling and, of course, Daihatsus have not been sold in the UK since 2009. I'd drive it first and see how you get on. You might not like the way it drives. Make sure you take it around a few corners.

The price is right

Andrew English’s review of the Range Rover SVA says that the VED is £450 for five years and then reduces to £140. I run a 10-year-old Renault Scénic for which I have just paid £305 in VED. How is it possible that in another five years I would be paying more than the driver of a 5,000cc V8? JW

Because that's the way the tax is structured. From April 1, VED for new vehicles changed. There would have been a CO2-based showroom tax of £2,000 on the Range Rover (up from £1,090 previously), followed by £140 a year from the second year, plus £310 a year luxury tax from the second year to the fifth year. To pay £305 for your 2007 Scénic, it must emit between 201 and 225g/km of CO2.

Arch enemy?

Are the wheel arches of the 2015 Lexus IS300h undersealed? AL

I haven't looked. Normally they would be sprayed with stone-chip and then painted in the body colour.

Style counsel

I need to sell a 1992 Honda NSX that has lain unused in my garage for a year. What would you recommend? HB

It will be sought-after - especially as the new version is finally coming on stream. Contact a classic car auction house such as www.historics.co.uk, www.brightwells.com, www.bonhams.com or www.silverstoneauctions.com. Alternatively, try a dealer such as www.tomhartley.com.

Kind of blue

I recently purchased an Audi Q5 that has an AdBlue tank. It will shortly need refilling. I purchased a 1.9-litre bottle from a local auto parts store for an eye popping £14.99, but have since purchased a 20-litre drum from Amazon for £24.99. Is AdBlue always to the same standard? JC

The normal service station retail price is £16 for 10 litres. It's pretty much a universal urea solution.

What price loyalty?

I have a 2012 Audi A6 avant 3.0 TDI auto with 96,000 miles and a full dealer service history. What are the likely problems and costs if I keep it for the next few years? DS

It will need a transmission fluid change. It might need a new exhaust gas recirculation valve and possibly two diesel particulate filters. It will be £300 for the fluid change,  £1,000 for the EGR and £2,000 for the DPFs, but it might be possible to clean the ash out of them for £350 each using the Ceramex service.

Petrol rationing

I have a 2004 Audi A4 1.9 TDI Avant but am struggling to find a petrol equivalent with an engine of 1.6 to 1.8 litres. My budget would be my car plus £6,500. TM

Too many diesel cars are up for sale because the market was oversupplied and lots of people now want to get out of them. At the same time the market was undersupplied with petrol cars that the public now wants. Your best bet is a Honda Civic Tourer 1.8i VTEC, but demand is very strong.

Stationary wagon

While on holiday in France, my mum saw the new version of the Renault Clio Sport Tourer. She currently drives an older version. Do you know if there are any plans for this model to be released to the UK with right-hand drive? CH

It’s a definite no for the UK. The Clio station wagon never sold well here and Renault feels the market is covered by the Captur SUV and the Dacia Logan MCV station wagon.

Needle point

Why are modern car petrol gauges so inaccurate? Recent cars I have owned all had a tendency to show full when the tank is topped up, then not move for 100 miles or so before dropping alarmingly as the needle heads towards empty. RO

It’s due to the shape of fuel tanks. The taller and narrower the tank, the more accurate a float gauge will be. The flatter and wider it is, the less accurate it becomes.

Vanity project

I have heard only negative feedback about large wheels with low-profile tyres, and yet they are very popular. Are there any positives? WMC

Some people think they look good.

Reigning Datsun cogs

What do you think of the Datsun 240Z? PR

Years ago I went mad at an auction and bid £8,000 for one with a Chevy V8 under the hood, but it wasn’t enough. I've only ever driven a 240Z once. It was a bit rusty but still a blast, like a mildly updated Austin Healey 3000 yet much more user-friendly.

Stored Ford?

I own a 1996 Ford Mondeo Ghia X with fewer than 80,000 miles on the clock. Should I try and sell it now or wrap it up in the garage as a future classic? CC

It's virtually worthless right now (I saw a runner sell for £25), but Mk1 Mondeos are becoming thin on the ground so in a few years you will have a rare car.

Climate control

I have an Audi A3 with Dunlop Sport tyres that I intend to replace with Michelin Cross Climates. Will I have to buy a new space-saver as well? RS

No. Although Cross Climates are unidirectional you can use the same space saver. But treat it as an emergency spare only, to limp to the nearest tyre fitter at less than 50mph. Remember that braking and handling will both be compromised.

Talk converter

What type of automatic gearbox is fitted to the petrol version of the Jaguar XE, and is it reliable? DH

It has the same ZF eight-speed torque converter auto that BMW uses. They are very reliable.

Stem sell research

My 2002 Ford Transit diesel is showing typical signs of exhaust gas recirculation valve problems. Can this be cured with fuel additives? DW

It probably needs a new EGR valve because the stem eventually wears out.

Quick, quick, Slough

Average speed cameras have been installed at the eastern end of the M4 and they appear to be permanent. Do you know if they are already live? SL

Unless there is an attached sign stating "Camera not in use", they are live.

The shining

I have been told that automatic cars are not so good if they are under 2,000cc. Is that true? LH

Not any more. Suzuki’s Baleno and Swift automatics have 1.0 turbos and are brilliant.

Home internationals

In the recent past it has been the case that expats adopt overseas driving licences. Is this still the case? NR

Yes. You can't have a UK licence without a UK address for the very obvious reason that you couldn't be checked or penalised.

Omega watch

I own one of the last Vauxhall Omegas made, a 2003 3.2 Elite model with only 117,000 miles on the clock. It is still very comfortable and (so far) reliable. Is it worth keeping or should I give in to the inevitable and buy a newer, more economical vehicle? AW

Hang on to it. They are highly regarded and might start increasing in value a little bit. You won’t be able to take it into London from September 2020, but you probably wouldn't anyway.

Bridge of size

I am driving a three-year-old Mercedes B180 but find it too large. Which smaller cars have a similarly raised driving position? VR

Look at the Kia Venga, Hyundai ix20, Ford B-Max or Suzuki Ignis.

Take the high road

I am 6ft 4in tall and looking for a car that allows me to put back my seat and still accommodate two child seats in the rear. Any recommendations? IR

A Skoda Superb.

Judge dread

You recently mentioned that CVTs were "dreaded". Why? My Honda Jazz seems fine. RG

CVTs are “dreaded” by keen drivers, but not by others.

Marriage of Figaro

We are thinking of buying a Nissan Figaro as a little runabout. What advice would you offer? KY

They look great, but can rust very badly. Some people are very keen on them and high prices are asked, but you need to be extremely careful not to land yourself with a worn-out rotbox.

Southbound A1

My wife has an Audi A1 Sport 1.6 TDI and recently had the emissions update carried out. Subsequently the car has not been as responsive. Any ideas? All I want is to get the vehicle back to its former performance? PB

Some owners have found that running on superdiesel, such as Shell V-Power Nitro Plus, has worked better with the revised injection sequence. It’s definitely worth trying.

Scrape of good hope

Not having claimed on my insurance policy for many years, I have a substantial no-claims discount. I have now damaged the car and it will cost about £380 to repair. My excess is £150. Would you advise claiming on the policy? CS

No. But it could be that the bodyshop reports the damage to your insurer and they will want to know why you did not register a claim. You have to say it was minor damage (which it was) on private land, involving no other driver (assuming all of that is true).

Bear necessities

We have a new Porsche Macan S diesel that cost £63,000. It is as fantastic as everyone says, but we feel it is not for us. After six years with a BMW X5 we miss the space and comfortable seats and driving position. Can the Porsche be sold at, near or above the purchase price and where would be best? And what safeguards should we take? RD

I think if you try to sell it now you'll lose a bundle. When the model was introduced everyone wanted the diesel. Now everyone wants petrol versions. If I were you I'd bear with it.

Water margins

You recently advised turbodiesel drivers to run their engine for a short while after stopping, to avoid carbonising of oil in the bearings. Does this advice also apply to petrol turbos? I have a Vauxhall Zafira petrol turbo. HF

Yes. Even though petrol turbos are water cooled, it's still a good idea to idle them before shutting off the engine after a steep ascent, towing, driving the car on a circuit or after maintaining constant speed on a motorway. It;s not necessary in everyday driving.

Hoist with the most

Which cars would be able to take an arm hoist to lift up a medium-sized mobility scooter? AF

It would be better to get something with a built-in ramp. Try www.brotherwood.com.

Idle thoughts

I use my 2008 Vauxhall Astra petrol to do a delivery round, necessitating frequent stops. Is it better for the engine to leave it idling or should I switch off? I typically leave the car for 30 to 60 seconds and have about 50 stops per round. JD

You can't legally leave it running on the street. And, of course, if someone nicked it you wouldn't be insured. Whatever the merits of leaving it idling, you can't unless you remain inside the car.

Fourth right?

I am confused about the timing of the oil change in VW seven-speed DSG gearboxes. My Golf SE 1.4 will soon require its fourth yearly service. One of your recent replies recommended a gearbox check after four years and an oil change at 40,000 miles. I am retired and will only reach that mileage when the car is 15 years old. I would appreciate your advice. CW

Although VW does not insist on this, independent specialists recommend that the fluid in this transmission be changed every four years or every 40,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Dye another day

The air-con on my six-year-old, 80,000-mile Nissan Qashqai stopped functioning properly a couple of years ago. Regassing twice in this period solved the problem temporarily, but now it has happened again. I assume there must be a leak somewhere in the system. Is this going to be an expensive fix? GR

The good news is that a six-year-old Nissan will be filled with R123a refrigerant, not the expensive new R1234y that is more prone to leaks and has been causing problems. All you can sensibly do is get an air-conditioning specialist to apply a dye to the refrigerant next time it is regassed. That should expose the leak.

Torque of the town

My wife loves her elderly Citroën C1 but is now looking for a very small automatic. We have about £5,000 to spend. Any suggestions? IB

If you can find a Suzuki Splash or equivalent Vauxhall Agila 1.2 auto, grab it. These have proper four-speed torque converter automatic transmissions.

Toll paddle martyr

I am due to choose my new Motability car quite soon and would be grateful for your thoughts. At present I drive a Honda Jazz 1.4 CVT, which I like, but is there now a better alternative? TC

The new Jazz 1.3i VTEC CVT-7 is a bit slower than the previous 1.4i, but can be driven extremely economically using the paddles. I'd also get a test drive in a Mazda2 1.5 six-speed auto, a Suzuki Baleno 1.0T Boosterjet six-speed auto and a Toyota Yaris hybrid.

Limo without limbo

I would like to buy a used SUV. I like the Nissan Qashqai, but found access difficult. Can you recommend something suitable? I am 73 and my days of doing the limbo are over. MT

SUVs are always higher off the ground with comparatively low rooflines. It’s much easier to get in and out of an MPV such as a VW Golf SV, Citroên C4 Picasso or Ford C-Max.

Mum’s the word

My wife and I are in our 70s and contemplating a time when we might downsize from two cars to one. As insurance and no-claims discount go with a person and not a car, what should be the insurance strategy to ensure the one who ends up driving longest gets the NCD?  Does anyone offer joint insurance policies for this scenario? CW

If you both have similar NCDs, then you have to make a judgment on which of you is likely to be driving for longest and have that person as the policyholder with the other as a named driver. Direct Line seems to work for a lot of older people - my 93-year-old mother is still with them.

Same as it ever was

I had my 2014 VW Passat 1.6 TDI’s emissions fix carried out at the end of January and I didn't notice any problems afterwards. As the warmer weather arrived the consumption improved and is at least as good as it was beforehand. I tend to get 40-45mpg in town driving and 50-plus on a motorway. SCW

Very good news. Others have found that a switch to “superdiesel” seems to suit the post-fix injection sequence.

Letting grip

I am about to replace my VW Golf SV and am wondering what to buy. I’m looking for a petrol auto but find the VW Tiguan is too big and expensive. What alternatives should I consider? As a 75-year-old with a back problem, I enjoy the higher front seat and driving view of the SV. AT

I'd consider a Peugeot 2008 1.2 Puretech 110 EAT6. It has a torque converter automatic rather than a DSG, and the added advantage of soft, all-weather tyres with Grip Control for the winter. (I like the Golf SV, but not the seven-speed dry-clutch DSG.)

Heated exchange

You wrote, “Petrol engines with turbochargers heat up much faster than those without.” My BMW 328i agrees with you. As I reach the main road about a mile out of our village on cold mornings, the heater fan auto setting starts to work. In 60 years of motoring I’ve never experienced such warm-up speed. Can you explain why? GJ

The water-cooled turbo is in the exhaust manifold, which heats the passing coolant more quickly than the engine combustion does. That same coolant then flows through the heater matrix to warm the cabin.

Lounge suits?

My wife has just tried a 2014 Fiat 500 1.2 Lounge. The car is in lovely condition but generated a lot of tyre noise. Is this normal? Her current car is a 2008 Renault Clio 1.2, which seems much smoother. EB

Assuming the Fiat is on standard 15-inch wheels, it's probably on Michelin Energy Saver 185/55 R15 tyres that can be quite noisy in the winter. It would be quieter on Michelin Cross Climates, which have the added benefit of giving outstanding grip in cold weather or mud.

Cheaper energy bill

My 2008 Citroën C3 needs a fresh battery. What would you recommend in the £30-£60 range? JL

A Yuasa battery, cheap but excellent. They are available from Halfords and elsewhere.

Money for nothing

I hear from the Association of British Insurers that there is to be strong action against fraudulent motoring claims, which last year amounted to £1.3 million. I have had a few phone calls from organisations in the past, encouraging me to put in a spurious claim relating to ‘whiplash’ injuries. Car owners should be aware of this problem and refuse to get involved. BE

All sensible people know this, but if greed overcomes common sense then anybody who gets themselves involved in a fraudulent claim deserves to pay the penalty. When they do, and the case receives publicity, the terminally avaricious will stop taking the risk.

Shades of grey 

I have just purchased a BMW X1 with a heads-up display that does not work with Polarised glasses. Is this common? RF

The systems work with Reactolite spectacles, because I can see mine clearly. Are you sure it's your glasses and not the height at which the display is set?

Cat letter

I need to replace my Jaguar XF 3.0 diesel. My Jaguar dealer the new 2.0 diesel engines are cleaner and meet or exceed the current EU standard, but the new petrol engines will be available later in the year. Should I take the car they are trying to sell me, or wait until I can get a petrol version? DM

The new Ingenium 2.0-litre 200PS and 250PS four-cylinder petrol engines went into pilot production in February, so should be here soon.

Fruitful investment?

I have the chance to buy a 1998 E36 BMW 1.8 (petrol) convertible for the princely sum of £500. Would you think this sensible or a possible lemon. I am 82 and love driving, having had sports cars all my life. DH

That is pocket money in car terms. If the BMW is solid with a decent roof it could be a great buy for the summer. Even if it isn't, spring has only just sprung so there is plenty of scope to resell it.

Room with a view

We want to replace our 2007 Mazda5. Space is a must, my wife likes an elevated driving position and the extra seats will come in useful. What are our options if we want a petrol automatic? DB

The nicest to drive is the Citroën C4 Picasso 1.2 PureTech 130 EAT6. It has remarkable performance for such a small engine and, so far, has been very reliable.

Very hot hatchback

My 2013 Fiesta 1.0 EcoBoost broke down without warning during a gentle 60-mile round trip. The Ford dealer’s diagnostic check revealed no problem. What do you think? LR

The usual reason with the 1.0 EcoBoost is overheating. It is caused by loss of coolant from the joint on the pipe between the turbo and the expansion tank.

Tail of the unexpected

My Porsche Macan S diesel has been written off after someone drove into the back of it at 70mph. I want to buy the same again, but should I choose petrol because of the adverse press on diesel engines? NJ

I would, but try to get a test drive first.

Open and shut case

I was a bit dozy one morning and put the remote control for my garage’s up-and-over door into my hip pocket. The pressure of sitting down activated the door, so as I reversed I hit the closing door with my Land Rover Defender. It cost £2,150 to replace the whole door. The moral of this story? Don’t put your zapper in your pocket. GT

I had a reader complain of sciatica and it turned out he'd caused the problem by carrying his wallet in his back pocket. I suggest you use it only for storing receipts.

Fit for purpose

My 2012 Vauxhall Corsa S Ecoflex is a tight fit in our garage. I would like to replace it with another five-door hatchback, but a low-mileage, slimmer model. What would suit my requirements? SM

Try a Vauxhall Viva or a Suzuki Celario.

Decline and fall

I visited a franchised dealer while helping my sister choose a car. For cash purchases, the polite young saleswoman stated that her company would not haggle on the marked price of a new car. Is this really the modern world? JL

If they won't haggle on cash prices, exercise your rightful prerogative to walk away.

Concrete jungle

During a speed awareness course I was told that motorists don’t know how to approach speed humps correctly. Apparently you shouldn’t drive with your wheels either side of the hump but with one wheel on and the other off. This sounds like nonsense to me. SS

The advice is correct and has been mentioned many times in this column. If you centre the car, the tyres’ inner shoulders are forced down on the chamfered edges of the speed cushion and this abrades them so severely that they eventually become dangerous. And because the damage is to the inner shoulders, it isn’t obvious to the naked eye.

Capital punishment

We’ve owned our 2004 VW Golf 1.9 TDI from new and it remains a super car, with only 77,000 miles on the clock. For some years it has been used only as a second car for local journeys. Do we offload now, or should we continue to run it? What big bills are waiting? JA

It won’t have a particulate filter that is likely to get choked up and go wrong, and the car isn't worth much, so it probably makes sense to keep it as a second car. If they haven’t been done, it will need a timing belt, water pump, tensioner and aux belt at about £400-£450. Just stay out of London from October onwards, because from then on the penalties of driving a pre-2005 EU3 diesel will be severe.

Deep in thought

I have a 2013 Seat Ibiza 1.2 TSI FR 105 with optional 17-inch wheels and 215/40/R17 tyres. I intend to change to 15-inch wheels. Are these recommended to improve comfort and reduce tyre noise? JB

They will improve the ride considerably. Try tyremen.co.uk or mytyres.co.uk – the best tyres for a quiet, supple ride (with added cold-weather benefits) are Michelin Cross Climates.

Hot unbothered

You advise running a diesel turbo for a while before turning off the engine. Does this also apply to petrol turbos, for example the Ford Focus 1.0-litre three-cylinder Ecoboost? JB

Yes, but only when the turbo is extremely hot, which it will be after a long ascent, towing or running at constant speed on the motorway. In normal day-to-day driving it won't get too hot.

E mission impossible

I want to buy an approved used Mercedes E-class saloon for comfort. Diesels are becoming unpopular, so how can I get a plug-in hybrid? My budget is about £20,000. JW

You won’t get a used petrol hybrid E-class because there wasn't one (in the UK, at least). The C350e and E350e petrol plug-in hybrids are new models. It’s better to think along the lines of a used Lexus IS300h on 16-inch wheels with 55-profile tyres.

Automatic lover

I need to replace my reliable 2001 Ford Focus and am looking for a small automatic with a good seat height and low sill. I do not need a new model as my annual mileage is only 5,000. What would you suggest? BB

Try to find a Suzuki Splash 1.2 automatic or the equivalent Vauxhall Agila. Failing that, a Hyundai i10 or Kia Picanto 1.25. If you want something slightly bigger, look at the Hyundai ix20 or Kia Venga.

Negative terminal

We have a Hyundai i40 diesel estate. It is very comfortable and full of gizmos, but diesel is getting such a bad press that we are looking to change. We do about 12,000 miles a year and would like a petrol automatic. TB

The Peugeot 308 1.2 PureTech 130, Peugeot 2008 1.2 PureTech 110, Peugeot 3008 1.2 PureTech 130 and Citroën C4 Picasso 1.2 PureTech 130 are all available with the EAT6 automatic gearbox.

Grey matter

Applications for insurance now request confirmation about whether or not a car is imported. An engineer said my Honda Jazz was manufactured in China. Another told me it was made in the UK. The selling dealer now says that the Jazz was never made in China. If I give the wrong information, my insurance will be invalid. ME

There is no need to worry about official imports. The insurer wants to know if the car was unofficially imported to the UK and, rather stupidly, has not made that clear. Later imports of the first-generation right-hand-drive UK Jazz were built in Guangzhou, China, after which UK production started in Swindon. Production of the second-generation Jazz for European markets moved from Japan to Honda's Swindon plant in October 2009.

Long-distance runner

I am thinking of buying a Mercedes C350e hybrid saloon with my retirement income, hoping it will last a long time. Do hybrids last well without incurring expensive costs? PC

A C350e petrol plug-in hybrid makes a lot of sense. Toyota Prius hybrids have been clocking up half a million miles with very little trouble, so petrol hybrids are the way to go.

Wet behind the rears

I have a 2008 Ford Focus Titanium that has developed a leaking boot. Fortunately, a big piece of carpet is taking the brunt of it. The parcel shelf is dry, so I don't think it’s coming in from the glass. All seals around the boot appear to be ok. Any idea where the water is coming from? SD

It is common for them to leak around the rear light clusters. The other entry point could be the one-way cabin vents that are hidden behind the carpeting in the sides of the load area. If the flaps break, water gets splashed in by the rear wheels.

Need for speed

I'm currently leasing a Skoda Octavia vRS (diesel) and want to replace it with a new car when the three-year term ends. What can you recommend with a decent boot, petrol or hybrid, 0-60mph in 7.5s or better and an average economy of at least 35mpg? I'm currently paying £255/month, which includes all maintenance/servicing and road fund licence. I would be prepared to pay up to £280/290 per month. PP

If you're leasing for three years, then anticipated problems with diesel emissions systems are likely to affect the car’s subsequent owner, not you. Given which, there’s no reason not to go for another Octavia vRS diesel or petrol, VW Golf GTI or a Seat Leon Cupra. You simply won't get that level of performance out of the average petrol hybrid.

Assets tripper

My 2006 Volvo V70R has done 145,000 miles. It has been expensive to tax and run, but has never needed much attention and has a full service history. I no longer need such a big car so am going to buy something smaller (and more economical). Is the Volvo worth keeping as a potentially appreciating asset or should I just offer it in part-exchange? TG

Even if V70Rs become collectible, your 145,000 miles goes against any significant increase in value. Reluctantly, I’d part with it.

Day of the Match

My 2012 VW Polo Match 1.4 has done only 22,412 miles, but my local main dealer tells me the cambelt needs changing for almost £400. Is this really needed? WP

After five years a replacement is due on age grounds, together with water pump, tensioner and auxiliary belt.

Heart of darkness

Regarding a recent comment about the rising oil level in the engine of a 2002/52 BMW 320d, built before DPFs were fitted, I always had to get the dealer to take oil out. He never drained the sump during service oil changes, but instead sucked it out through the dipstick port. This failed to empty it completely, so as soon as I got home level was above the mark on the dipstick and the oil was already black due to contamination from the residual old oil. I went straight back to the garage... CS

That's disgraceful, especially when BMW allows oil service intervals of up to 20,000 miles. But this practice could be responsible for the oil service indicator crying out for a change after only 8,000 miles.

Wet flaw

I read in a recent column about MS’s problem with condensation in his old Mazda MX-5. I bought a Cabrioshield for my partner's Mini Cooper convertible and it's the best £100 or so I've spent. It stops water ingress, birdlime damage, sun damage, frost and snow. Highly recommended: www.cabrioshield.com. MP

That sounds like a good idea, for which many thanks. MX-5 enthusiasts tell me that wet carpets are usually the result of the drain holes in the sills becoming blocked with water, dirt running off the hood and then filling up the sills and finding its way into the car.

Up, up and away

I will be changing my Nissan Qashqai in summer. Which petrol turbo SUV has the highest ride height for £20,000-£22,000? MB

I’d say the Suzuki Vitara S 1.4T BoosterJet. It’s a long way down from the seat to the ground.

München glad block

I have seen a few 2007 BMW 320d estates for sale. They look good, but do they have particulate filters? And are they reliable? SJ

They do have DPFs and may also be vulnerable to N47 timing chain trouble. The more efficient but more troublesome N47 diesel engine replaced the M47 in the BMW E90/E91 3-series in late 2007. A slightly earlier car would have the M47, not the N47. The N47 is distinguished by having its timing chain at the rear of the engine block.

Pace, the final frontier?

I understand that when I reach my 70th birthday, I will have to renew my driving licence. I'm told that it is nothing more than a rubber-stamping exercise, but will the fact that I drive a fairly quick car - a 2016 Honda Civic Type R-GT - be taken into account and affect the renewal process? CM

No. Providing the DVLA has your address, you will get a reminder shortly beforehand. If you have a paper licence you will need to get a new photocard licence, which is straightforward as long as you have a current passport because they can get your photo from the Passport Office. The correct website is: https://www.gov.uk/renew-driving-licence-at-70. The process is free. Beware of imposter websites that can charge you £80 or more for doing what you can easily do yourself.

PM’s question time

I have a 2012/62 VW Golf Plus 1.6 TDI with 16,000 miles. I wish to keep it, but my wife finds difficulty in accessing the front passenger seat. I have asked the supplying dealer whether it is possible to relocate the seat a couple of inches farther back, but was told ‘no’. What do you think? PM

Anything like this can be done, if not by the dealer then perhaps by a specialist who usually adapts vehicles for the disabled. Try www.jeffgosling.co.uk.

Defining moment

Is there a definition of SUV? For example, is the Peugeot 3008 only an SUV because they have put it in the name? It looks more like an MPV to me. PO

A Sports Utility Vehicle is primarily designed to be four-wheel drive but might also be available without. A 3008 is a crossover between a car, an MPV and an SUV, but it is available with Grip Control that is as effective in snow and off road as the average 4WD system, so qualifies it as an SUV.

Happy torque

Can you recommend a replacement for my well-loved manual Mazda5, which is now 11 years old. I would like the new car to be no bigger in width or height, and would need automatic transmission, with the higher seat position, five doors and a flat boot. EM

The Mazda5 was a good car and the MkII is even better, though not available as an auto. The best MPV auto the same size is a Citroën C4 Picasso 1.2 Puretech 130 with EAT6 torque converter auto. You can also get the same excellent engine and transmission in the Peugeot 3008.

Straight answer

You recently answered a letter from someone asking for advice about purchasing a Ford EcoSport - and told them you wouldn't buy one. Why? SS

It's simply not very good. Furthermore, the 1.5 auto has the Ford/Getrag twin dry-clutch Powershift that has been problematic.  

Sweden sour source?

I'm considering buying a 2011 Volvo S80 D5 automatic diesel with fewer than 40,000 miles on the clock. Am I right to be put off by the tow bar? I don’t know what it has towed. MP

It depends what else has been done to it. For towing, the automatic transmission should have been fitted with additional heat exchangers or oil coolers. If it hasn't, then the transmission fluid could be burned and the torque converter could be on the way out. You can't easily check because auto transmissions no longer have separate dipsticks.

Give up smoking

I have a 2006 Audi A3 1.9 diesel. By mistake I put it into second gear instead of fourth, which took it up to about 4,000rpm. A cloud of black smoke came out of the exhaust. I did this a couple more times deliberately and more smoke came out but less each time. Now, it seems clear. Is this something I should do occasionally to clear the exhaust? Is it doing harm? PY

It’s a good idea to do this to clear the exhaust system before the MoT, when the smoke opacity test consists of redlining the engine three times and measuring the thickness of the smoke emitted.

Veni, vidi, Sedici

I have a 2008 Fiat Sedici with 36,000 miles on the clock. It has been valued at £1,600. I have been advised that the clutch is slipping and will need replacing by the end of the year. The cost will be £600. Apart from that apparent problem, the car suits me perfectly. Should I part-exchange it for a Fiat 500X, or pay for the new clutch? MT

Get a new clutch. This is quite a decent car.

Life begins at 40k

I can't find precise details for the new rate of VED applying to cars with a list price of more than £40,000. Is that threshold inclusive or exclusive of the taxes applicable at point of sale? Is the threshold inclusive or exclusive of options and accessories? TM

The £40,000 is the ex-factory list price of the car including all fitted extras and VAT. It does not include things like delivery, registration tax and first-year showroom tax.

Dark thoughts

The dashboard display on my 2003 Citroên Xsara Picasso has gone out completely. Everything else works. Is it likely to be a simple solution, or will the dashboard have to be removed and sent away? BD

With luck it's nothing more than the earth to the dash display. Try calling in a local car electrical specialist via www.yell.com.

Three-pointed stars

I am trying to get a valuation for a 1997P Mercedes-Benz E220 auto cabrio with 46,560 miles on the clock. Can you help? It has had one owner from new and is in very good condition. KC

The E320 Sportline convertible is the most valuable. These have hovered between £8,000 and £20,000. The E220 convertible is worth less: £6,000-£12,000.

Judge dread

Kia, Hyundai and so on boast about not having a "dreaded" CVT gearbox on their latest hybrids, something I don't understand. I believe some Toyota CVTs have covered up to half a million miles with very few problems. Am I wrong? MW

Toyota hybrids have epicyclic CVTs, not the conventional CVT belts and rollers, and that's why they last so well. The new Kias and Hyundais have dual clutch automatics that make the drive more direct. Toyotas and Hyundais come with five-year warranties. Kias with seven.

Hawes power

We are about to move from southern Britain to Upper Wensleydale. My wife's Hyundai i10 is fitted with Goodyear Vector 4-Seasons tyres, but my much-loved Seat Leon FR 1.4 has conventional Bridgestones on 17-inch wheels. Although I am eventually considering a 4WD option, would the Leon with Michelin Cross Climates be a safe bet for winter? Although our new house is on a cul-de-sac leading to a farm, we would not expect to spend any time away from asphalt. SA

The Leon would be better all year round on Cross Climates or Goodyear Vector 4-Seasons, depending on which are available in the 17-inch size.

Oops, wrong number

I am amazed to learn that my 2002 Toyota Camry’s VED will increase from £295 to £650 this year. The Camry has been fault-free all its life, is reliable, comfortable and still performs very well. It’s low mileage, we do only about 4,000 miles a year and it suits my wife and I very well. In view of the high car tax, though, we wonder if it is time to sell. We have a budget of £20,000. What would you recommend? PP

I’d keep it – you have the wrong information and the annual rate for your Camry rose from £295 to £305 on April 1.

Seat car named desire

My wife is on the point of giving up her Volvo S60 D4 after only 15 months because she feels so uncomfortable. She finds the driver’s seat extremely uncomfortable and the passenger side worse. What would you recommend as a replacement? She wants a petrol car of similar size. JK

We're all different, and we all have different ideas about which seats are more comfortable and how to adjust them for maximum comfort. I like a long squab, preferably adjustable for tilt, height adjustment, and adjustable lumbar support. She needs to look for all of these, which tends to mean the higher spec levels with electrically adjustable seats. The new Citroen C3 has good seats as do Peugeot 2008s and Toyota’s Auris, Prius and Avensis.

Modern heart

We are looking to sell our 20-year-old Mercedes-Benz estate and buy a new smaller vehicle. We are considering the five-door VW Golf 1.4 TSI DSG SE NAV automatic. Is it better to have diesel or petrol? AW

Hold on! The VW Golf Mk7 has just been updated with new 1.5-litre 120/150 petrol engines. Wait for the revamped version to come through, if it hasn't already - and don't buy diesel.

Urban space man

Before I put in my order for a new Jaguar XE, please advise me if the estate version is imminent. And is there a facelift due for the existing saloon? RP

I think we’ll see a Jaguar E-Pace SUV, for the simple reason that SUVs sell far better than estates. Prototypes have already been seen and it’s extremely good looking; better than any other SUV, including the Macan.

Rust house forte

I’m considering a January 2003 Mercedes W210 E240 estate. It has covered 60,000 miles and is described as having no rust. Did Mercedes ever cure this problem on later models, or am I a fool for considering it? AC

Not on W210s. It continued through to early W211s, too. It might be OK if it has been kept in a heated garage and never taken out in the winter. Otherwise...

Stop and search

I run a 1999 Lexus IS200, which I have owned from new and has now done 39,000 miles. How frequently should I change the brake fluid? It has been changed once, but that was some time ago. PH

Get it tested every year for moisture content and change it only if that is high. Otherwise, change it every three years to get rid of absorbed moisture and contaminants.

Keep on runnin’

I have been looking at used Seat Altea XLs with the 1.9 TDI engine, about eight years old. Is this engine the same or similar to that in the 2001-05 VW Passat? I had one of those and it was an unbelievable car (it covered the best part of 200,000 miles). SJ

Yes. The 1.9 TDI PD engine is very highly rated. Lots of them have done 200,000 miles plus.

Digital broadcast

The radio in my 17-year-old Citroën Berlingo stopped working. Any ideas? SM

Check the connections at the rear and those to the door speakers. If all is OK but the radio isn't, throw it away and buy another from Halfords (which gives you the chance to upgrade to DAB).

Webbed feat

I am thinking of selling my two-year old Peugeot through webuyanycar.com or a similar site. It has done 15,000 miles. Are there any major things that I need to consider? PH

It's easy, genuine and you get your money quickly, but what you receive is trade auction price minus a small commission.

Capital punishment

I wonder why Brits are so bad at vehicle salesmanship? Here is the actual wording of a current eBay advert for a 1987 Land Rover Defender 90: “NO DREAMERS OR TIME WASTERS, YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE.” What on earth are they thinking? I always imagined the secret of good salesmanship was to establish a friendly rapport with the potential buyer. JT

It’s a technique, trying to make out they are selling something special, which tells anyone with a brain that they aren’t.

Guilty as charged

We heart horror stories every year that a cold snap could cause all the lights to go out as we do not have enough electricity-generating capacity. So how are we going to recharge all these new electric cars? RO

The problem is the amount of electricity wasted between generation and use. A lot of it is generated during the day and used during the night. You can't get power directly from solar panels at night, so there needs to be more effective methods of storage. New, cheap, high capacity graphite batteries are being developed in Spain - that could solve this problem.

Octavia seizure

I bought a Skoda Octavia DSG in January 2011. Since then I have had it regularly serviced by a main dealer and have completed 22,500 miles. It was diagnosed a week ago as needing a new Mechatronic control unit for £1,700. JC

Presumably this is the twin dry-clutch seven-speed DSG that has been extremely troublesome, particularly if the original synthetic oil in pre-2013 units was not replaced with mineral oil and not then replaced again four years later. The VW Group has a new low-torque twin wet-clutch seven-speed DSG that is gradually being phased in.

Citroën, SM?

We live in a period house with narrow parking area and cars seem to be getting wider. Please recommend a small car (bigger than a Smart) that will comfortably handle long journeys. SM

There are several options, including Citroën C1, Hyundai i10, Kia Picanto, Vauxhall Viva, Suzuki Celario, Peugeot 108 and Toyota Aygo.

Cee’d of doubt

I have a 2012/62 Kia Cee’d that I’m looking to change. I am considering a Seat Ateca, which is receiving good reviews, but are there other alternatives? I do about 8,000 miles a year. Five doors and good luggage space are essential. MF

You don't want a diesel. I’d look at an Ateca 1.4 TSI 150, a Suzuki Vitara S 1.4T BoosterJet or else a Peugeot 2008 1.2 Puretech 130 six-speed.

Disposable outcome

I own a 2011 Land Rover Freelander 2 diesel and would like to change it for a petrol or hybrid 4WD with similar ground clearance and driving position, plus reasonable fuel consumption (37mpg or better). What is the best way to dispose of the Freelander, bearing in mind the adverse publicity surrounding diesel engines? CG

There's only one 4WD hybrid under £30,000. the Toyota RAV-4 4WD. The much cheaper Suzuki Vitara S 1.4T BoosterJet 4WD has been averaging 44.7mpg in the real world. Part-ex the Freelander - it’s too much grief trying to sell it by yourself.

Flame culture

My 10-year-old VW Golf MkV Sport 1.4 TSI burst into flames seven minutes after I had parked. My insurance paid out the book price and covered my possessions, but I was deemed at fault. The car had every service per the book, mainly by VW, apart from the last two. VW said it could not have been a manufacturer's fault, owing to the age of the car. I am at a loss to understand the cause. BB

There has been a high incidence of faults with the model, probably due to high expectations, but I can't immediately explain why it would spontaneously combust unless a fuel pipe let go and sprayed fuel over a hot exhaust manifold.

Message in a battle

The law has been strengthened with regard to the use of mobile phones in vehicles. While walking I see many drivers using their mobiles. How does the law stand for me as a responsible citizen if I were to report drivers to the police for using their phones? RM

It would be waste of time without proof. That could be obtained by mobile phone records if the police can be bothered. A photo of the offender taken on your own mobile might help to set this in motion.

Clunk-click every trip

I have had three Skoda Citigos. The first developed an audible metallic click when the clutch was brought up. This continued until it was traded in. The second Citigo developed the same noise at 30,000 miles and stopped clicking at about 45,000miles. My newest Citigo recently started doing it at around 14,000miles. Any ideas? PD

Variable quality gearboxes and clutches seem to be typical of Citigos, Seat Miis and VW Ups.

Now we’re torquing

I require a small automatic petrol car, but am wary of DSG gearbox problems with VW Group and Ford models. I would like some recommendations. CF

It’s hard to go wrong with a small Kia Picanto or Hyundai i10 four-speed torque converter auto. The bigger Suzuki Baleno 1.0T BoosterJet six-speed torque converter auto is also very good, but my choice would be a Mazda2 1.5 six-speed.

VW update update

I have a VW Golf Plus 1.6 TDI Bluemotion and am concerned after reading about all the NOx fix horrors. Presumably no figures are available to show the percentage of fixes that have not worked as against those that are OK. What course of action is best? JW

I had a meeting with VW Group engineers on March 1. The fix for the 1.6 TDI was only approved on December 13, which is why it was late. But it had to improve the NOx without affecting fuel economy to pass the tests, so as long as there isn't anything else wrong with your car (such as a clogged exhaust gas recirculation valve) it should be okay. Although there have been complaints after the fix, VW claims these are from a very small but vocal minority. After 480,000 fixes were applied, there were 3,600 complaints, 60 per cent of which were about engine noise and 35 per cent about increased fuel consumption, EGR problems and so on. On March 1 150 case files were still outstanding.

Key is the fear

I get a “remote battery low voltage” message on my Volvo dash. I have checked the manual and cannot find what or where the problem might be. AD

It must mean the battery in your remote key. These need to be changed very quickly. Have the replacement battery out of its packaging and ready before you open the remote to replace it. You get 10 seconds or you lose the code. Alternatively, get a main dealer to do it for you, or a branch of Timpsons.

Flat chat

I own a 2009/59 Mazda3 with alloy wheels. For some time now I have been losing a bit of pressure in each tyre on a weekly basis. Since it is unlikely that I could have a slow puncture in all four tyres, it must be something else. CG

The rim seals could be failing because these are the wheels’ most vulnerable area, particularly if they have ever been kerbed. Sometimes rims can be resealed; sometimes they can't. It’s possible the alloy might have developed cracks and become porous.

No need to worry

I am thinking of replacing my 2017 Toyota RAV4 with a Dacia Duster 1.2 petrol turbo 4x4 as diesel makes little sense for only 5,000 miles a year. Now l gather that petrol turbos need to stretch their legs, as do all diesels. Should I reconsider? I am very keen on the Dacia. Should I be put off by potential reliability problems? BS

Petrol turbos heat up much faster than petrol engines without turbos. No worries. I’ve had very few reported problems about Dacia Dusters, although it could be that Duster customers are not the complaining types.

Honeycomb recipe

The turbo on my 2009/59 Peugeot 308 SW HDI 110 died. After replacing it three times in rapid succession it turned out that the catalytic converter's honeycomb had collapsed and was causing an occasional blockage in the exhaust system, preventing the gases from spinning the turbo. Everything has been fine since the cat was replaced. BC

Nightmare. Another reason for replacement turbos failing one after the other is that the turbo bearing oil feed and return pipes become blocked with carbonised oil.

Slim pickings

I need to buy a new automatic with high driving position and petrol engine. I now drive a BMW X1 and it's too wide. A smaller car would be fine. JB

Try the Kia Venga, Hyundai ix20 or, even narrower, the new Suzuki Ignis.

Long and short of it

Do you know why the seat belt stalk, fixed to the floor on the right-hand side of the front passenger seat of my Ford C-Max, is about an inch shorter than that on the driver's side? BF

It will be because the driver's seat is height adjustable and the passenger seat isn't.

One step beyond?

I drive a 2005/55 Mini One that has done 39,000 miles. I need a knee replacement soon and am thinking of a small auto. I only do 3,000 miles a year. Do I soldier on or buy/lease something newer? KW

You can probably still manage the manual.

Ash wounds day

I cycle to work and use a 2008 Volvo V70 D5 as little as possible, though it has done 110,000 miles. Does it predate the problems that seem to afflict modern diesels and if so should I keep it forever? If not, what is the quietest and most comfortable alternative that will take a complete bike in the back as easily as the V70 does? TH

I'm surprised that the particulate filter has not yet filled up with ash, but that probably will be the next thing. It might be possible to clean it out using the Ceramex service. I hope you've had the timing belt, tensioner, water pump and auxiliary belt replaced, because if not that job is overdue. If you abandon the Volvo, switch to petrol. Look at a Mazda6 2.0i Skyactive Tourer, or a more powerful Ford Mondeo 2.0i Ecoboost estate.

Weight and see

We are considering replacing our 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe CRDI, which we use mainly for towing a caravan weighing 1,650kg. What would our options be? JM

A Toyota RAV4 petrol hybrid 4WD can tow 1,650kg and a Lexus RX450h petrol hybrid 4WD can tow 2,000kg. Both have automatic gearboxes. A 2010 Santa Fe with the 2.2 R-Type chain-cam diesel could pull 2,500kg with a manual box and 2,000 as an automatic.

Quenching one’s thirst

We are looking to change our 2009 Ford C-Max 1.8 Zetec. While we are happy with the comfort, petrol consumption is poor at an average 36mpg. What would be a better next buy? DP

Assuming this is the petrol 1.8, your mpg is above the average of 33.9. But you’ll probably do better with the latest generation of small petrol turbos such as VW's 1.4TSI in the Golf SV that is returning 45.6-46.9mpg in real-world terms. In contrast, a new C-Max 1.0 Ecoboost 125 is rated at 40.2mpg.

PM’s question time

I have a 2000 Peugeot 206 LX 1.4 petrol auto. For the last couple of years my car has struggled to meet the emissions test element of the MoT and I am concerned about its chances of passing next time. I think part of the problem is that I do not use the car very much. Do you have any tips for helping it pass? PM

Use only the best quality petrol and add a fuel system cleaning additive. Take it for a few long runs of 50 miles or so and for at least 20 miles before you deliver it to the MoT station, so you deliver it warm. That’s your best chance. (Of course it usually pays to have the car serviced before the MoT.)

Circulation increase

You frequently write that turbocharged engines should be idled for a while after a run, to allow the oil to cool so that it does not carbonise in the oilways. I have an Audi A3 cabriolet with the 1.8 TFSI engine. What temperature should I let the oil fall to before switching off safely? JW

You don't aim for a temperature. You simply hope to keep the oil and coolant circulating through the turbo while it cools from almost red hot to merely very hot. The turbo will be many times hotter than the engine oil and coolant that is circulating through it.

Slowin’ ranger

We're thinking of buying a small automatic and wondered if the Skoda Fabia would be suitable. Are there any reliability issues with this model (I seem to remember that your column has mentioned this in the past). We drive about 7,000 miles annually and would keep the car for three years. CB

There have been problems with the seven-speed dry-clutch DSG fitted to smaller engined VW Group models, including the Fabia, but you are unlikely to encounter any over three years and 21,000 miles. Alternatives include a Honda Jazz CVT-7 (slow, but very roomy, practical and economical), a Toyota Yaris (also available as a hybrid). a Hyundai ix20 and a Kia Venga.

Cold comfort firm

I have never had a car with low-profile tyres because they don’t seem to give such a smooth and comfortable ride. I am looking to buy a one-year-old Audi Q3 S-Line Plus, but it has low-profile tyres. Is that a problem? GH 

Bang, crash, wallop. You'll feel every bump. You might damage the wheel rims on a pothole. The tyres will wear out faster and are more expensive to replace. Don't buy a car on big wheels and low-profile tyres unless you plan to race it. Don't ever go lower than 55-profile.

Raise a blade

My daughter’s 2010 Vauxhall Corsa has a problem with the offside windscreen wiper, which is very noisy and out of alignment with the other blade. What could the problem be? PD

It’s fairly simple to remove the arm and relocate it as long as the spindle is not worn. The additional problem may be the angle of the blade against the screen - it might help if you twist it so that is at a right angle to the screen.

Some leak it hot

We lease a Mini Countryman Cooper S but don’t use it often. I take it for a 100-mile drive if it has been standing for three weeks, but is there anything else I could do? NS

You're doing all that is necessary. Make sure you run it on the highest-octane petrol with the best additive package. Check the oil and coolant regularly. This engine has a pump to keep water circulating through the turbo if you switch off when it is extremely hot. That system has been known to spring leaks.

Wet feat

Having read many excellent articles about the Mazda MX-5, I bought an old one. Its only problem is soaked carpets from condensation. How can I prevent this? MS

A garage. Convertible soft-tops are usually slightly damp inside in wet weather. A car cover would probably help, but won’t provide a complete cure.

Sell C bill

I want to change my 2004 Ford C-Max 1.8 Zetec. My priorities are comfort, easy access, better fuel consumption over 6,500 miles a year and low operating costs. Should I buy another C-Max, a B-Max or are there better other options? BW

Look at the VW Golf SV, from just under £20,000. The 1.4 TSI 125 is adequate, but the new 1.5 TSI engine should be available within six months.

Marque steel

I want to replace my Daihatsu Terios with something similar, as I can't find a dealer who sells new models. Any ideas? BH

Daihatsu suspended UK imports in November 2009, because the yen was too high against sterling, but there are some solid options. You might still be able to get a new Suzuki Jimny, which is the same size. You can also get a new Suzuki Ignis with four-wheel drive, or a Fiat Panda 4x4.

Cold fact

The heater in my car is no longer working efficiently. Is there any way I can flush out the heater matrix without stripping the system? AC

There is a two-stage product called Radflush, designed to clear sludge from the system. Obviously you have to set the system to maximum heat to make sure the coolant with the flush circulates properly. Then, of course, you need to refill with fresh coolant. But if your problem is caused by the electric valve to the heater matrix not opening fully, then this will not cure it.

Ash tag

When checking the oil in my 2011 BMW 318d, I discovered that the level had risen above the maximum mark. There is no evidence of water contamination in the sump or filler cap. The last oil and filter change was at 72,000 miles and the current mileage is 80,000. What could be the cause? AC

Fuel injected into the engine to regenerate the diesel particulate filter (DPF) has instead dribbled down the bores into the sump. It’s crucial to get the level down, or the engine could start running uncontrollably on its sump oil. It’s also important to replace the contaminated sump oil. And, of course, investigate why the DPF is not actively regenerating. It could well be choked with ash.

Efficiency drive

I have a 10-year-old Toyota Prius. I am looking to downsize and buy a small, fuel-efficient car for city use and the odd longer trip. What should I consider? BL

The simplest answer is to downsize to a Toyota Yaris hybrid. But if you're thinking smaller still, consider a Suzuki Celario, Vauxhall Viva, Hyundai i10, Kia Picanto, Toyota Aygo, Citroën C1, Peugeot 108, VW Up, Skoda Citigo, Seat Mii, Renault Twingo or Smart ForFour.

Soft option

I have a four-year old BMW 325d and its 18-inch run-flat tyres pick up all the road cambers. Whenever I fit brand-new tyres the problem goes away, but gradually returns. The tracking has been checked and the pressures are as recommended by BMW. Is there anything that can be done to improve the ride? PC

Go down to 16-inch wheels with 205/60 R16 tyres.

Dim summary

The battery on my Ford Fiesta Style has twice gone completely flat this month. The car is used a few times a month and the battery is three years old. The AA tested the battery and found it to be OK. Any idea what’s wrong? GH

The most common reason is failure of the interior light auto dimmer that remains live when it shouldn’t. Try switching off the interior light altogether.

Castor way

I travel abroad several times a year in hire cars and always use the Shuttle. I prefer an automatic gearbox - but if the car broke down on the train, how would they would get it out? KR

They would have to put the locked driven wheels on frames with castors, then push it along the carriages to the exit.

X-ray specs

What is the horsepower of a Lexus IS 300h that’s about three years old? The company's specs confuse me. Can you help? MW

The basic answer is 180bhp from the internal combustion engine plus 143bhp from the electric motor, but those figures are achieved at different rpm so you can't simply add them together.

The law’s an ass

I parked in a managed car park and the ticket machine recorded only the first two digits of my car’s registration. I received a £60 fine, so wrote to explain and sent a copy of my ticket. They rejected it and are not fining me because I didn’t pay, but because the whole of my registration didn’t come out. Is there anything I can do? PA

Unfortunately, this is a consequence of the law as it stands: Protection of Freedoms Act 2012 Clause 56 and Beavis v Parking Eye, Supreme Court, November 2015 seems to give these people a blanket right to impose penalties for this sort of thing and will continue to do so until there is a Supreme Court ruling that favours the victim.

Passing mention

Do you know how I might find the date I passed my UK driving test? SW

It depends when you passed, because date records did not start until March 25 1974. If you passed after that, go to https://www.gov.uk/view-driving-licence and input your licence number, national insurance number and postcode. Under the tab “vehicles you can drive”, it will show the day you became eligible for each category (ie passed your test).

Rising oil prices

You have often written of the increased cost of diesel cars after three years. Can you be more specific about what might need doing? I run a Mazda CX-5 AWD diesel. TC

DPF clogged with soot: £200 for a forced regeneration. Eolys system replacement: £500. DPF filled with ash: £350 for Ceramex to clean it out (+ removal, carriage and refitting) or anything from £600 - £1,500 to replace. EGR clogged: £600-£1,200 for a replacement. AdBlue heater failed: £600 for a replacement.

Less is more

We are looking for something a lot smaller than our old Citroën C5, as we no longer need the huge luggage space. We're both in our seventies and not as agile as we were, so nothing too low. We do require a reasonable boot, though, to accommodate my wife’s walking frame. JH

The best bet is a Honda Jazz, because of the spaciousness and brilliant versatility of its interior. Other small, tall options include the Kia Venga, Hyundai ix20 and Ford B-Max.

Dodge charger

I have a 2006 Mercedes C180 with a VED rating of £270 for 12 months. The tax was due for renewal on March 1. If I take it off the road by a SORN declaration on March 31, then retax it for the new £140 rate on, say, April 3, would this be valid? SN

Absolutely not. The new rate is solely for new cars first registered from April 1 2017. Your car's tax rate will remain on the same CO2 basis as before.

Renewed hope

I had continuous motorhome insurance through a specialist broker, with no claims since 1990. When I tried to renew after a three-year break, I was quoted £1,100 because “motorhome cover is now more expensive and difficult to find”. Is there a cheaper option? TT

Just go elsewhere. Use the internet. Your three-year break means you will have lost any no-claims discount.

Extension leads

I own a three-year-old Skoda Octavia Elegance 1.4 TSI and am considering a two-year warranty extension. I have considered Warranty Direct and WarrantyWise. Any advice? RJ

Warranty Direct was always very good, but we’ll have to see how things develop following an ownership change some time ago. The lack of complaints about WarrantyWise is good news. Another possibility is http://motoreasy.co.uk.

Due diligence

I purchased my Hyundai ix20 from a dealer on March 1 2016. It was first registered in 2013, but prior to collection the garage had an MoT done. Do I have to tax it every year from when I bought it, or every year from the date of first registration? ES

Tax cannot carry over from one owner to another, so the car must have been freshly taxed when you took possession. Go to www.gov.uk/vehicle-tax and enter the reg. That will tell you what is due and when.

Moaner leaser?

Is there an organisation to whom one can complain about car dealers? CT

Yes: https://www.themotorombudsman.org. They can only handle complaints against dealers who are members of the (SMMT) and many unfranchised traders aren’t.

Shake, rattle & roll

I have an annoying rattle on my 2010 Jaguar XF (3.0 V6 petrol, 42,000 miles). It seems to come from the nearside rear corner and occurs on uneven roads at 10-30mph. Motorway driving is OK. It’s a soft, rumbling sound, doesn’t sound like metal on metal and there is no hard “clunk” if I go over a pothole. The brake line has been made secure but the noise still persists. Have you any ideas? PW

It might be something in the boot rattling around where you can't see it, under the spare wheel or in one of the side compartments.

Soft option

We have a September 2009 Citroën C4 VTR with about 72,000 miles on the clock.  We are looking to change it for something that will do about 9000 miles a year, a mixture of short (20-mile) trips and long runs. We are looking for a similar comfortable ride and petrol power. AW

Unless it's on 205/55 R16 tyres run at sensible pressures, the current C4 is not a particularly soft-riding car and doesn't have sophisticated independent suspension. There will be a revised C4 this year with a new type of suspension that employs some very clever dampers. On 205/55 R16 tyres that might be a suitable replacement. Otherwise, the cheapest cars with fully independent suspension are the Ford Focus, Kia Cee'd and Hyundai i30, again best on 205/55 R16 tyres.

Country life

I am looking for a used Skoda Yeti, up to six years old, two- or four-wheel drive. I live in a rural area, require plenty of space in the rear and I average only 7,000 miles annually. Which would you consider the best buy? BJ

The 1.8 TSI 4WD petrol is by far the best Yeti.

Year of the Cat

I have a 1974 Jaguar XJ6 4.2 in pretty outstanding nick after only 26,300 miles. It is totally rust-free and has been in the same family from new. How much is it likely to be worth? DK

Try https://valuations.classiccarsforsale.co.uk.

Harvester in

In an effort to have reliable transport for farming, my 20-year-old nephew got a loan and purchased a 2016 Mitsubishi L200. The salesman said he would be loaned a truck when the L200 came in for service. After three months, third gear was slipping but the dealer offered a loan car and not the promised truck. Without a truck my nephew could not work, so repairs were delayed multiple times. Then his truck overheated. The dealer flushed out the radiator but told him the fault could be the head gasket and, because of the mileage (35,000), my nephew would be responsible for the cost. He cannot afford this and desperately needs reliable transport. JP

If he bought a new truck then it should be under warranty, unless he voided the cover by failing to service the truck on time (which I guess might be the case). If he did comply with the terms of the warranty then, if the dealer fails to repair both the transmission and the engine, and also fails to loan him a truck during the repair, he can take his case to small claims. Law here: http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/faq/consumer-rights.

Soap opera

In December, a car wash at a BP fuel station malfunctioned and pulled off part of my six-month-old convertible’s roof, causing damage to the tune of £670. After reviewing the CCTV, BP admitted liability and agreed to pay. Where do I stand in terms of claiming for time off work to get my car repaired? MB

You need a solicitor for that, but the cost of employing one might well exceed whatever you can get back from BP.

Fixing a whole

My Audi A4 Avant 2.0 TDI quattro is nearing the end of its three-year warranty and has done 35,000 miles. I need to make up my mind about a warranty extension that includes AA breakdown cover. They are quoting me an annual cost of £450.75 for all component cover with an excess of £100 (up to 15,000 miles annually). This seems rather high. JH

This is probably an EA189 engine that has not yet had its NOx emissions fix and it might be a condition of the Audi warranty that the car has this done. If the fix is not immediately successful, the car could be in and out of the dealer for weeks and you could be asked to pay for expensive new parts - ie between a rock and a hard place.

Round of Golf

I took my VW Golf 2.0 TDi 140 DSG for its 75,000-mile service at a main dealer. It had been averaging 58mpg, but this fell to 50mpg after the service and I feel that the engine is running more noisily than before. The dealer said it ran a computer diagnosis and did not find anything amiss, but that it had upgraded the software relating to emissions. CG

I think we can confirm with some degree of certainty that they performed the EA189 NOx emissions software fix and that the result is typical. After the fix, the engines actively regenerate their DPFs more frequently, using extra diesel fuel and that accounts for the increased consumption.

Mind the gap

I have ordered a new car and am being pushed to think about gap insurance. Any thoughts? MH

Dealers make big commissions out of this, which is why you are being pushed. Search online to find alternative suppliers, which can usually provide this cover for half the dealer price.

Fairly liquid

Last summer I had replacement cam cover gaskets fitted to my Mitsubishi Shogun, due to oil loss. A local garage did the work, but within a couple of months clean engine oil began to build up around the gaskets. Clearly one or both have failed. The garage told me Mitsubishi is responsible because it supplied a faulty part. Shouldn’t the garage fix the problem? CK

The garage is responsible and is trying to wriggle out of it.

Juke of Sunderland

My daughter-in-law has set her heart on a Nissan Juke. She drives about 5,000 miles a year and has seen one she likes - a 2015 24,000-miler for £11,000, from a non-main dealer. I’ve found her a similar car from a Nissan agent (66-plate, £14,000). She could afford monthly payments on either, so which is the better buy? MB

It depends on the engine. The 1.2 DIG-T or 1.6 DIG-T are best. Avoid  the ordinary 1.6, ditto the 1.5 diesel unless she does big mileage.

Highly dubious

My wife and I have a VW Golf SV petrol auto and a Honda CR-V diesel auto, both 18 months old. We are thinking of replacing them with one new petrol auto. Any replacement would need a high driving position and decent headroom. JH

I would keep one of your existing cars, rather than lose a fortune in early depreciation. I’d stick with the Golf SV and  take out an additional warranty against future trouble with its seven-speed DSG transmission.

Getting cold feet

My Rover 75 2.0 CDI Tourer has done 222,200 miles and still drives like a dream. However, my wife’s feet get cold when the heater is on but mine are fine. Any suggestions? JT

It has a broken ducting flap - the one that should supply warm air to the passenger footwell is not opening.

Bricks and motor

I bought a Land Rover Discovery 2.5 TDI for £2,000 to transport rubbish and building materials. I now need a similarly cheap workhorse, budget up to £5,000. CF

Try something simple like a Nissan Terrano II 2.7 or 3.0 diesel, or an original Kia Sorento 2.5 diesel. All are too old to have potentially troublesome diesel particulate filters (DPFs).

Claim, set & match

I’ve had a notification from Renault that our 2011 Grand Modus is due a cambelt change at 42,000 miles. I recall you claiming it is always advisable to change other bits and pieces at the same time. Is this true of my car? DS

Change the timing belt, tensioner, water pump and auxiliary belt. If the latter comes off it can wrap itself around the unprotected lower timing belt pulley and take the timing belt off.

Thin pickings

Our 2012 Lexus RX 450h F Sport is 1,884mm wide, which gives about 50mm each side (door mirrors extended) to negotiate our narrow drive. It seems all new cars are getting wider, so I have been looking at the previous model of the BMW X1 and Nissan Qashqai. We have a large dog so a decent boot is needed and we do not want a diesel. SG

The Suzuka Vitara S 1.4T Boosterjet (1,775mm wide), Peugeot 2008 (1,829mm), Ssangyong Tivoli (1,795mm), Dacia Duster (1,822mm), Toyota C-HR (1,795mm), Nissan Qashqai (1,806mm) Kia Sportage (1,855mm), Kia Soul (1,800m) or Kia Niro (1,805mm), All measurements are with ther mirrors folded.

GM buys Skoda

I have been reading recently about expensive cam chain problems afflicting TSI petrol engines in VW Group cars, but it is hard to find definitive information.Is my 2014 Skoda Yeti 1.8 at risk? GM

It's completely unpredictable. VW cut costs again, forcing the chain manufacturer to extend the life of his link stamping tools. If you get a chain with links stamped out early in the life of the tool you will probably be fine. If you get a chain with burrs and scratches from worn tools, you might have problems (particularly if you are on VW’s unwise long-life service regime).

Life’s little luxuries

I need to replace my 2005 Toyota RAV4 sooner or later, but its successors and rivals have a host of extras I will never use. The only luxuries I want are air-con and a radio. Everything points to the Dacia Duster, but the only model with air-con is the top of the range Laureate diesel. Is diesel absolutely not an alternative negative for someone who covers barely 5,000 miles a year? BS

Yes, but there is also a 1.2 TCe 125 petrol version that's really very good indeed (front- or four-wheel drive, but to my mind the 4x4 is better).

Wise guise

I have a 2010 Honda CR-V and a 2004 Honda Jazz, both petrol models. I would like to sell both and buy a new car, mostly for short runs. I am looking for something a little bigger and more comfortable than the Jazz. PH

The Jazz isn't worth much, maybe £1,000. The CR-V could be worth about £7,500. This won't finance replacement with something like a used Mazda CX-3, or anything new., but you could consider a used Honda Civic 1.8i VTEC, which is proving to be very reliable. Your best policy is simply to stick with the CR-V.

True blue

It’s time to buy a new car, I have been looking at the Nissan Qashqai, Ford Kuga and Toyota RAV4. I have always been a Ford man. Is it worth remaining loyal? I have about  £20,000 to spend. NS

You are unlikely to get a new Kuga for £20,000  You could get a Ford EcoSport, but I wouldn't. In terms of value the best SUV is the Dacia Duster 1.2 TCe 125 4x4 at £14,895.

Things that go bump

I bought a Fiat 500L in August 2015 and the airbag warning light came on six months later. Since then my car has been a regular visitor to the dealership and the problem still hasn’t been fixed. SE

If you are anywhere served by www.airbagman.co.uk, get your Fiat dealer to agree to call them in. I think the SRS system is probably over-sensitive and is thus triggered by bumps, rather than actually being faulty. Such problems have been known in small Fiats of old.

Suzuki twin

I drive a 15-year-old Suzuki Grand Vitara, which I love and has never let me down. I now need to get a replacement as I doubt if it will get through the MoT, but my husband is not keen on another Suzuki as he finds them “clunky”. I like the high driving position and have a budget of £20,000. What would you suggest, new or used? CK

The latest Suzuki Vitara S 1.4T BoosterJet is a lot less “clunky”. Otherwise, try a Peugeot 2008 1.2 PureTech 130 GT with Grip Control. I drove one back to back with the latest Vitara S and found it rode and handled better.

Cruel seize

My Nissan X-Trail 2.0 dCi was bought new in November 2008, has been regularly serviced and has done only 35,700 miles. It has never needed oil between services and has been very reliable until now. On a recent motorway journey, the engine suddenly emitted a loud metallic knock so I pulled off at the next junction. A Nissan dealer diagnosed oil pump failure, requiring a new engine at a cost of £6,000. Is this a common fault after such low mileage, and would it be reasonable to expect Nissan to make a contribution? DJ

There have been no previous reports of oil pump failure, but several of engine main bearing failures that led Nissan to extend the warranty on the engine from three years to four. It's obviously worth trying for goodwill, but your car is now approaching nine years old and there is no legal liability for a vehicle of this age. it’s worth consulting a member of www.fer.co.uk, but after a diesel engine seizes it might not be possible to rebuild it.

Speed awareness curse

My daughter has six points on her licence. She is worried about getting any more points because of her job. Is there any equipment she can buy that will at all times tell her what speed she is doing and warn her if she exceeds the limit? JP

Many sat-navs with traffic sign recognition now do this. She could also consider an advanced driver training course, to improve her powers of observation so that she becomes more aware of the posted limits.

Here comes the sum

My 2006 VW Golf 2.0 TDI needs replacing soon and I am wondering if I will be better off leasing rather than buying. I anticipate doing about 25,000 miles per year. Would you advise going for a petrol car rather than a diesel? JP

If you are leasing a car to do 25,000 miles a year, then hand it back to the leasing company after three years, all you need to be concerned about are the lease payments and the fuel economy benefits. If the fuel economy benefit of diesel is 20 per cent better than the petrol car and the lease payments are 10 per cent higher, you'll be better off with the diesel. Anything going wrong with the emissions equipment will be covered by the warranty or the lessor and is anyway unlikely to go wrong in three years. New EU6 diesels are unlikely to be banned from many city centres within the next three years.

Sap opera

Our 2008 Audi A3 convertible has started to develop a green roof where moss and lichen have started to accumulate after years of being parked under trees. How can we remove this without damaging the roof or its waterproofing? SF

There is a range of products specifically for this from www.renovointernational.com.

Two-pronged attack

Since the 1990s we have been driving manual Audi Avant A4 2.0 TDIs to tow our caravan. But with the current anti-diesel publicity, do you think it better to change to a 2.0-litre petrol manual? ER

The problem with diesels is twofold – partly the ill feeling and threats of bans from city centres that is affecting used values, partly the unreliability of the expensive emissions equipment that now has to be fitted (and will have to be replaced after three years or so). Unless you drive huge mileages, or tow very heavy weights, petrol turbo is now the way to go.

Taking the high road

I drive a 2004 Toyota Corolla 1.6 VVT-i automatic that, while old, runs well and is very reliable. I need to find a replacement large enough to carry my elderly mother, who is not very mobile and has trouble getting into my Corolla, plus my collapsible wheelchair and 6ft 2in brother. Maximum budget is £25,000 and I have no interest in gadgets or gizmos other than parking sensors and air-con. CW

Try the latest Peugeot 3008 1.2 PureTech 130 EAT6 or the smaller Peugeot 2008 1.2 PureTech 110 EAT6. They have Very efficient petrol engines, torque converter automatic gearboxes and the type of accommodation you need. The VW Golf SV is the right size, but I don’t trust its seven-speed DSG transmission.

Seven up

I need to sell my Land Rover Defender Station Wagon as the seats are unsuitable for my growing number of grandchildren. I need a used car with seven forward-facing seats and a high driving position. My budget is £13,500. Any ideas? JW

If you can find a post-2010 Kia Sorento or Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 R-Type diesel manual seven-seater within budget, snap it up. They are the most reliable vehicles of this type and offer the best value. Manuals are far better than autos.

Pirate equity?

In December the insurance for my 2014 VW Passat came up for renewal and I received a quote for £1,644, up from £575. The only “accident” I had during the year was my 80th birthday. I wrote to VW Insurance and received a “Dear Lyndon” reply stating “Sorry to be losing you. Here is your letter confirming that you have a 10-year No-Claim Discount, which your new insurer may request.” I then looked online and reinsured with Marks & Spencer for £536. LSS

"Insurers" are often glorified brokers (rather than actual underwriters), owned by private equity investors and, typical of such outfits, will try to take people for whatever they can. So you did the sensible thing (as you must with every renewal these days). At least they had the good grace to supply proof of NCD without any fuss.

Satisfied customer

In the wake of recent VW recall letters, my VW CC had the work done at my convenience, with the provision of a courtesy car and at no charge, and there is no detrimental effect to power or consumption. CB

I’m very please to read that the modification to your engine was successful. The VW Group has now invited me for talks to explain exactly what is being done to all of its affected cars.

Elementary, dear homes

I will be moving to a new address soon. What do I need to do to renew my licence - do I need a photo licence? Also, how often does a photo licence need to be renewed? RB

The only kind of licence you can apply for is a photo licence. It can be done on-line so long as you have a current passport because they’ll use that photo. It needs to be renewed every 10 years until you are 70, then every three years: https://www.gov.uk/renew-driving-licence.

Viking inversion

We need to replace our 2007 Volvo XC90. We no longer require a seven-seater, but still want the comfort of a 4x4 - something up to three years old. We would use it for no more that 7,000 miles per annum. What would you suggest? GS

If you like the XC90, the obvious replacement is an XC60. There will be a new version this year so prices of used cars should be even keener.

Far and wide

I run a Jazz hybrid that has been as reliable as all my other Hondas. I intend to keep it for local journeys, but want something larger and more comfortable for longer trips. I’m looking for a petrol automatic, up to two years old, and have a budget of £20,000. Alternatively, which car would do both jobs if I add the Jazz to the budget? DF

A Toyota Auris hybrid is the obvious choice, or else a Kia Niro hybrid. The Niro has a dual clutch rather than an epicyclic transmission and “locks” its ratios to give a more positive drive, especially up hills. If you get rid of the Jazz, the stylish alternative is a Toyota C-HR.

Drinking problem

My 61-reg Audi A5 2.0 TFSI quattro has used 1.5 litres of oil in only 1,500 miles. There’s no leak, so should I be worried? JB

I’m afraid this engine has gained a reputation for heavy oil consumption.

French dressing

I want to change my 48,000-mile Volvo C30 diesel for a comfortable five-door petrol hatchback with sat-nav, reasonable VED, Bluetooth and retractable wing mirrors. Any ideas? RC

I'd go for a Peugeot 308 1.2 130 PureTech six-speed or a Peugeot 2008 1.2 130 PureTech 130 six-speed with Grip Control, both of which are 110g/km so £20 VED. But you'll have to act quickly. After the first year (and a higher first-year CO2-based showroom tax), every new car bought from April 1 2017 onwards will carry an annual VED charge of £140.

Rubber barren

The tread on my front tyres is 3mm. Although the legal limit is 1.8mm, when should I change them? MB

Sooner rather than later. Some tyres will be fine as they approach the legal minimum, but others will be compromised. Note that it’s illegal to go below 3mm of tread in countries such as Switzerland.

Green & pleasant land

I am thinking of replacing my 15-year-old Mercedes estate with a more economical and eco-friendly used Toyota. Would a 2011 Auris hybrid with 59,000 miles be worth inspecting? Two owners in six years made me wonder about its reliability. MF

My dad's got one and it has been 100 per cent reliable. I find it very pleasant to drive. A peculiarity of the Auris hybrid is that, unlike other cars, it's actually better on larger diameter wheels and lower-profile tyres.

To B or not to B

I love my 2012 Mercedes B200 CDI but am considering moving to a petrol engine to avoid the problems that seem to afflict modern diesels. What would you recommend? RD

 really like the Volkswagen Golf SV six-speed manual with the 1.4 TSI 150 engine and the Citroën C4 Picasso 1.2 Puretech 130.

Gripping yearn

I want to change my 2012 Mercedes C250 for another Mercedes or BMW with four-wheel drive. I do about 25,000 miles per year and have a budget of about £20,000. Used is fine. I drive about 25,000 miles a year and like to change cars every couple of years. PH

A BMW xDrive will suit you, but would be best with cold- or all-weather tyres. MB is having problems with its latest AWD systems. Audi, VW and Skoda have AWD systems and I particularly like the current Golf Alltrack with the new EA288 engine.

Sweet 16s

I am considering a Citroën C3 Picasso, Ford B-Max or Honda Jazz SE. Most reviews only feature the base model 1.2 PureTech on 16-inch wheels whereas the Platinum I’m looking at is on 17s. Will this affect the ride and handling? DP

The C3 Picasso is amazingly spacious and the 1.2 PureTech is an excellent engine, albeit with only 108bhp and a five-speed ’box in the C3 Picasso. Do not go for the 17-inch wheels. They ruin the ride.

Pluie for help

At my house in France I keep a 16-year-old Toyota RAV-4. Over the past year, when it is parked outside and it rains I end up with a pool in the passenger footwell. BG

It might be coming in via a perforated plastic membranes inside the door. Or the drains to the bulkhead vent well might be blocked, leaving rainwater nowhere to go except via the pollen filter into the car. If this is the case you’ll have to unblock the drains either side of the vent well and will also need a new pollen filter.

Rim with a view

My 2014 Mercedes E350 BlueTec AMG estate has low-profile tyres on 18-inch rims. What are the best wheels and tyres for this car in terms of ride quality? AK

It might have 245/40 R18 tyres all round, or the less comfortable option of 265/35 R18 on the back and 245/40 R18 on the front. The rears tend to last about 15,000 miles before they start to rumble. You could switch to 245/45 R17s all round. Michelin Cross Climate tyres are not available in any of these sizes, so check www.tyrereviews.co.uk for options.

Rare stake

I want to buy a nearly new petrol-powered Jaguar XF or F-Pace. I’m also considering a Land Rover Discovery or BMW X5. It seems difficult to find petrol-driven vehicles of this type. What should I look at? JC

You can get a supercharged V6 petrol Jaguar F-Pace for £51,500, or the same engine in a Jaguar XF and the new Discovery. The smaller XE is offered with an excellent 2.0 Ford chain-cam turbocharged petrol engine. You can also get this engine in the Range Rover Evoque and Discovery Sport. The only petrol X5 is the 40e hybrid.

All mod cons?

I have an Audi A4 with the “cheat” engine and have been asked by the local dealer to bring it in for a fix. Do you know if this actually makes the car compliant in terms of NOx emissions? Does it swap one type of emission for another? And does it compromise any of the car’s performance characteristics? RB

Some owners have reported the fix to have worked on Golf 2.0 TDIs. Others with 1.2 TDIs, 1.6 TDIs, Tiguan 2.0 TDIs and CC 2.0 TDIs have reported poor running, fuel consumption increases and failed exhaust gas recirculation valves. Owners have been told that the modification is not reversible, so they have been driven to aftermarket engine management chip suppliers for a remedy.

Paris, taxes

I was born in the UK and have been driving for more than 30 years. I had nine years no-claims discount up to 1999 and then moved to France, since when I have added another 16 years of no-claims discount. In December I moved back to England and bought my dad’s old car, nothing sporty, but am struggling to get it insured. After 25 years of accident-free driving the best quote I can find is £500 on a £1,500 car. Any ideas? AB

Average car insurance premiums have, apparently, risen by more than 50 per cent over the past year, so you may be expecting too much in the current environment when starting from scratch. But there’s nothing to stop you employing a good broker to seek an insurer that will give you some credit for your history in France.

Seeing the light

I drove my 2004 BMW 530d over a speed bump and immediately the restraint systems warning light appeared. The seat belts seem to be in working order. I assume an airbag connection came loose. If not, then a reset might be the answer. Are there any specialist firms that might be cheaper than a visit to BMW? GB

This is common from the shock of driving over speed humps in a car with low-profile tyres. If you live in an area that is covered by a franchise, airbagman.co.uk can reset it for you. So can a BMW dealer, obviously.

Circle line

We are looking to replace our 2014 Citroën C4 Picasso. With a very tight parking space we cannot have anything with a larger turning circle than the C4 (10.8m), nor anything longer (4,428mm). We’re not too limited by cost. Any ideas? JP

I’d go for the latest C4 Picasso 1.2 PureTech 130 six-speed manual or EAT6, or else a Peugeot 3008 1.2 PureTech 130 six-speed manual or EAT6.

Buy? Bye-bye

My granddaughter is interested in buying a used Fiat 500 at auction. She would really like a Lounge Dualogic, first registered in May 2012, 875cc, with 16,500 miles and an MoT until May 2017. It has full main dealer service history. Could you give us some idea of what she should be paying for a car like this? PH

She shouldn’t. I was”’upgraded” to a 500 875cc TwinAir Dualogic at Schiphol Airport and soon found out why Fiat UK didn’t have any on the UK press fleet. It’s diabolical and doesn’t work because the engine torque is in the wrong rev range for the automated manual transmission. Dualogic works okay with a 1.3 Multijet diesel, but not with the TwinAir. Get an 875cc TwinAir manual by all means, but not a Dualogic.

Range Rover vague

My daughter is looking to lease a new Range Rover Evoque. Some of the quotes she has received are so vague that it is impossible to make true comparisons. What is the spec she should be looking at over and above five doors and 4WD? She expects to do 15k miles per year. MC

If she’s leasing, then the fuel economy advantages of the 2.0-litre Ingenium diesel outweigh petrol because she will not be responsible for the potentially high repair and maintenance costs of a diesel after the three-year term. She has to decide whether or not she needs an automatic transmission and which level of spec. Check here for details: http://www.landrover.com/vehicles/range-rover-evoque/specifications.html. I think Evoques are best on 18-inch wheels with 235/60 R18 tyres.

Crystal tips

I am in a bit of a quandary regarding the change from diesel to petrol. My current car is a 2015 Skoda Octavia SEL 4x4 estate with 9,200 miles. With all the discussion regarding the evil diesel and the damage to the atmosphere, it would seem that the time is coming when the part-exchange value of a diesel car will be seriously affected. Looking into your crystal ball, when do you think this will happen? JM

This ball started rolling about five years ago when people slowly started realising that diesels with particulate filters were unsuitable for their style of motoring. As is always the case it takes a long time before the British public collectively wakes up to a rip-off, but once it does it’s like a supertanker changing course and cannot be turned back. Diesel residuals will continue to decline, with the slope getting steeper when there is no tax advantage and when diesels start to be banned from city centres.

Feeling the inch

I have a 2009 Range Rover Sport, with 20-inch rims.  The tyres are Pirelli Scorpion 275/140ZR20/106Ys. These ride well on main roads but do not seem happy with potholes. Would we radically improve the ride if we fitted, say, 18-inch wheels and a deeper tyre? JG

You can go to 19s.

Scandal whacks

We have a 2010 Skoda Fabia 1.6 TDI 105 estate, which Skoda informed us is due to have VW modifications as a result of the emissions scandal. We are still waiting. Normally we would be thinking of changing it for another vehicle at this age. Is it better to wait until the modifications are done? RG

The recall for the EA189 1.6 TDI engine has now begun and early reports suggest the upgrades are not always successful. Whether or not you have it done, your car will be blighted by uncertainty that affects its trade-in value.

High hopes

My wife and I run a very economical Honda Insight hybrid and have been delighted with its reliability. However, we need to change to an automatic car with easier access. It must still be economical to run and we would prefer second-hand with low mileage. What do you suggest? PS

New, the Kia Niro, Toyota C-HR hybrid and the Toyota RAV4 hybrid are the only hybrid SUV crossovers below £30,000 so far (though the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is on the cusp). Alternatively, a Peugeot 2008 1.2 PureTech 110 EAT6 auto. I can't recommend anything second-hand that meets your criteria.

Full steam ahead

I took delivery of the latest Mercedes E-class and noticed the headlights were partially fogged over. Thus far the condensation is still there. Is this a Mercedes design fault and is it reasonable to expect Mercedes to sort it out? KB

It's reasonable to expect the supplying MB dealer to fix this. It’s caused by different expansion and contraction rates of the polycarbonate lens, the headlight reflector and the car body collectively breaking the seal. 

Code enigma

A Ford dealer has quoted me "about £300" for a spare remote key for a 2008 Focus. I can buy a washing machine for less than £200 - think what goes into the manufacture and transport costs of that. I know there are other sources for replacement keys. Any recommendations? WP

Go to Timpsons. They can copy a key and code much more reasonably, usually under £100 and often much less.

Starting to crack

My son-in-law bought a one-owner BMW 325i. It is a 2009 model with the N53 engine and, bar the last service, was maintained by the selling dealer. Starting problems recently led the RAC man to diagnose a blown head gasket. After further investigation, an independent BMW specialist has found cracks in the engine block/head that mean it needs a new engine at £6,000. Do you think he has any redress? SD

There is a possibility that it cracked due to insufficient concentration of anti-freeze for some reason. For example, the car may have lost coolant during a summer and a previous owner filled it with plain water. If the strength of the anti-freeze was not sufficient, then that is down to the dealer who sold your son-in-law the car for not checking it and you have a strong case.

Cold-hearted

My 2013 Ford C-Max was purchased through a main dealer about three years ago, with 9,000 miles on the clock. I drive about 8,000 miles a year and it is serviced regularly through the same dealer. Just before the warranty expired I asked them to look at the climate control as the AC was not working properly. They advised it was due to stone damage to the condenser that was not covered by warranty and that this was a common problem with modern cars. Have I any chance pursuing this matter further? BH

I don't think so. Radiators, condensers and heat exchangers are much more vulnerable on modern cars than they used to be.

An opportunist knocks

It looks like the UK will follow the American lead in terms of class action lawyers pursuing the VW Group following recent scandals. My EA189 Audi 2.0 TDI was rectified after a year, so technically it has been fixed. If the lawyers are successful, will I be eligible for compensation if I have not been part of the class action process? TL

My view is that if you are not part of one of the three class actions, you are not entitled to anything. And if your car has been satisfactorily fixed with no performance or fuel economy drawbacks, I am appalled that anyone should attempt to seek something for nothing. I'll fight for people whose emissions fix has been botched or has else ruined the car, but not for the money-grubbing brigade.

Love Hertz

Which company sells fleet cars before they come on the market? I cannot find any. TC

Try Hertz.

Reelin’ in the Yaris

I've owned my 2003 petrol Toyota Yaris since new and it has done 254,000 miles. It is still going strong and has given me very few  serious issues but, planning ahead, what would be a worthy replacement: another Yaris? Are they as good? Money is tight so that needs to be taken into consideration. CO

Try to find the same thing - a Mk1 1.3 up to 2005. There are still some out there with fewer than 50,000 miles under their belts.

Pool harbour

I drive a Volkswagen 2.0 diesel estate with all the trimmings, but it is now leaking rainwater into the front footwells and I think it's time for a change. I don't need an estate any more but like the convenience of a flat tailgate for dog, shopping etc. What do you suggest? TT

The water in the front footwells will be coming in because the drains either side of the bulkhead vent well are blocked, leaving nowhere for it to go except via the pollen filter into the car. (Once you've cleared the drains you'll also have to replace the pollen filter, and that's a real finger-grazing job.) For a flat load deck in a compact car, take a look at a new Peugeot 2008 1.2 PureTech 130 six-speed.

Driven nuts

I have a Toyota Avensis estate that is always parked on our drive. A squirrel appears to have taken a liking to eating peanuts while warming itself on top of the engine - underneath the soundproofing and engine cover. I only discovered this when the battery failed one morning and I had to jump-start the car. How can I prevent the little devils from getting in there again? DP

You might need to use an ultrasonic device. This is a huge problem in the Black Forest area of Germany, where pine martens get into engine compartments and nibble the wiring.

Question of timing

We have a 2008 Fiat 500 1.2 with 24,000 miles. It was serviced at Halfords recently and we were advised to have the cambelt changed if it had not been done. We checked the service records and it had not been done but, later that day, a different engineer said it was not needed until 72,000 miles. Who is correct? PC

I also have a 500 1.2 and had my cambelt changed at seven years old and 17,000 miles. It needs timing belt, tensioner and water pump. It’s best to fit a new auxiliary belt, too. Since Fiat dealers charge only £300 plus VAT, it’s best to have it done there. The water pump is crucial because they are prone to developing hidden leaks.

Double jeopardy

I received a charge notice following two visits to the same car park. I have written to the enforcement company, stating the facts and explaining where I went in between my two visits, They insist they have no evidence to support my claim. They have now asked for documentary evidence to prove I entered their car park on two occasions. This is difficult to show, as I do not photograph my car entering and leaving car parks. PS

If you entered a car park twice in one day, you will have been ANPR timed from first entry to last exit. These nasty, pernicious people do not set their ANPR systems to acknowledge multiple visits, and one of their terms and conditions might even be "no return visits the same day." It's ridiculous, but the supreme court has given parking enforcers the right to inflict penalties according to their own rules. Statutory law (Protection of Freedoms Act, Clause 56) and the highest court in the land have put you in the wrong. I campaigned for years to try to prevent this happening, but was ignored.

Flaming nuisance

I have a 20-litre can of unleaded petrol that I purchased as insurance during the tanker strikes in 2000. I understand that petrol deteriorates with age, so how should I best dispose of it? DG

Take it to your local recycling centre. Do not pour it down a drain. (A neighbour used to store petrol in his wooden garage, until it burned down.)

Urban worrier

I want to change my Mercedes E220 diesel for a similar new car (Mercedes, BMW, Audi etc). Having now retired I drive only about 3,000 miles a year, mostly short urban trips. Can you help, please? RJ

A petrol hybrid makes the most sense. You could consider a VW Passat GTE, a Lexus IS300h or a Kia Optima PHEV.

Space invaders?

On bank holidays, are we allowed to park in spaces designated “Permit holder only Mon-Sat?” NR

Generally, yes, although it depends on local authority rules. Read the terms and conditions carefully.

Spec saviours

I purchased a new Fiat Panda Lounge for my daughter and it arrived without the protective black plastic side mouldings that were supposed to be specified. Fiat has since apologised and says they cannot be retro-fitted. I am concerned that not being to spec will affect the car’s future resale value. What can I do? JB

Reject the car and demand that it be replaced by a correct-spec 2017 Panda, or else demand a £1,000 refund because the car is not to spec. The Consumer Rights Act of November 2015 gives you a statutory right to reject it for this reason, for 28 days from the time purchase.

Open and shunt case

My wife has pampered her 55,000-mile Mercedes SLK 230 since new in 2000 and was recently shocked to learn that its roof mechanism has been damaged beyond economic repair (by a rear-end collision, of which she was unaware). What is the best way to dispose of this much-loved car that is still perfectly roadworthy and otherwise in excellent condition? CW

Without the roof working correctly it's worth buttons, perhaps £2,000 tops. It’s best to ignore your unhelpful MB dealer and find an independent specialist who can fix it.

Faults economy

A few days ago I saw an engine fault warning on my dashboard. I had diagnostics carried out and was told the inlet manifold was faulty. The garage told me that there were two grades of replacement part, one at  £160 and a more expensive option at £220. What effect on the engine would it have if I were to ignore the problem and what is the difference between the two different parts, price apart? AD

If you don't replace the inlet manifold swirl flaps, they will eventually break off, be ingested and destroy the engine. For the same reason, go for the OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts and not a cheap copy.

Cable car

I have an eight-year-old Toyota Avensis 1.8 with conventional handbrake, which I wish to replace with a car with similar characteristics. These include a large boot, comfortable seating and quiet ride. The replacement, two or three years old, does not have to be a hatchback. The old-style handbrake is a must. EC

Unfortunately, conventional lever-type parking brakes are going out of style because electromechanical rear brakes are more compatible with autonomous braking. The Ford Focus still has a lever handbrake, mind, as do Skoda Octavias.

Provincial life

Our daughter lives in Nova Scotia and we visit twice a year. Her vehicle is a huge 6.4-litre Dodge Ram, which my wife refuses to drive, so we want to buy a second-hand VW Golf to use while we’re there. We own a manual Golf 1.4 TSI that is excellent, but Canadian Golfs seem to have much bigger engines and a lot are automatics. You advise avoiding some VW automatics, so what should we do? TS

Avoid anything with the twin dry-clutch seven-speed DSG, so that's Golf 1.2 TSI, 1.4 TSI and 1.6 TDI. The twin wet-clutch six-speed DSG is more reliable in 2.0 TDIs and 2.0 TSIs, but for the 2017 facelift VW will be fitting all Golfs with the superior twin wet-clutch seven-speed DSG.

Carry on cabby

My daughter is driving her third Toyota Prius and has always leased her cars. She feels inclined to buy when it is three years old and keep it for as long again. What pitfalls await her? AG

If she can buy it for sensible money, it could prove to be a good decision. Taxi drivers have now caught on to the fact that the Prius is ultra-reliable and cheap to maintain. Even if she keeps it for another three years there is a ready market out there, but that might make it too expensive to buy from the leasing company. If she leases again she should be aware that from April 2017 the annual tax for any new car rises to £140 (or £450 for cars costing more than £40,000).

Seven-year itch

I drive about 5,000 miles a year in my seven-year-old Skoda Yeti TDI CR110 4x4. I wish to change to a similarly compact petrol 4x4, but the Yeti TSI 4x4 is too expensive. What are the alternatives? WG

I’d suggest the Dacia Duster 1.2 TCE 125 4x4 (£14,895) or a Suzuki Vitara S 1.4 Boosterjet 4x4 (about £21,000).

Short answer

I have a 2012 BMW 118d Convertible but do a relatively low mileage (18,000 from new). I have been using Shell V-Power Nitro but, despite my limited use, have suffered no diesel-related problems. What say you? DB

If you haven't had trouble you're doing something right. V-Power will have helped, although there aren’t too many DPF problems with BMW Efficient Dynamics. I'd guess that most of your journeys must be of reasonable length.

Don’t stop me now

Our 2013 Volkswagen Golf 1.4 TSI DSG developed a worrying fault a few months ago. Suddenly and without warning the brakes came on and we screeched to a halt. Fortunately there was no traffic near us and the car then drove normally. Our dealer said a software update was required and this seemed to solve the problem. A few months later it happened again and we were almost hit from behind. A faulty electromechanical parking brake was diagnosed and replaced. Is this common? CF

This was a problem with early Mk7 Golfs with radar Active Cruise Control, but I have had no reports of 2015-2016 Golfs suffering similarly. Fitting the car with an electromechanical parking brake allows the ACC to slow autonomously to prevent the car crashing into something ahead.

All change

I recently replaced the front tyres of my 2014 BMW X1 X-Drive. The garage advised me that I should change the rears as well, even though they are well within the legal limit. They said that failure to do so could wreck the X-Drive, involving a £11,000 repair. Is this correct? RW

Yes. A disparity between tyre types and rolling circumference will upset the X-Drive centre diff and cause excess wear because it will think the disparity is due to slippage and will continually engage all-wheel drive. It's the same with all similar AWD systems. The way around it is to swap tyres front to back (same side) halfway through their lives. but it is a problem if the tyres are half worn and you get an irreparable puncture in one of them.

Foggiest idea

My wife's new VW Polo GTI is great, but demisting the windscreen takes ages. We run the air-conditioning all the time. DK

Using the air-con should actually keep the cabin “dry”. You might need to switch from recirculation mode to admit outside air. Make sure there isn’t any water sloshing around in the bulkhead vent well, because the drains either side are blocked. If there is water in there, the pollen filter will be sodden and needs replacing to allow fresh air to enter the car.

That petrol emotion

I have for the past 20 years driven two Ford Mondeo 2.0 TDCi estates, covering 300,000 almost trouble-free miles. It is now time to renew my 2005 version, but I am wary of the way diesel is receiving such bad press and might eventually be priced out of the market. I need a powerful car to tow a caravan and would like a SUV-type replacement although I don’t need 4WD. A hybrid might be a good idea. I have a budget of up to £30,000. What would you recommend? JP

The SUV petrol hybrids in this price bracket are the Toyota RAV-4 hybrid and the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, which is a plug-in. I don't think a Kia Niro will tug the caravan. You could also look at a new or used Lexus NX300h with the same powertrains as the RAV-4. There are more petrol hybrids on the way, but they will probably cost more than £30,000.

The big idea

You recently advised CG to replace his Audi A6 Avant diesel with “something with a petrol engine”, but that is easier said than done if you want a large estate. I am concerned about this because I would like to change my Mercedes E-class estate, but with some major cities planning bans diesels could soon be rendered unsaleable. Are manufacturers planning to re-introduce petrol or hybrid versions of their large estates? SB

The Ford Mondeo and Skoda Superb are both available as turbocharged 2.0 petrol estates. The Mondeo is also available as a petrol hybrid and the VW Passat GTE is a plug-in petrol hybrid estate. Within a year, petrol plug-in hybrid estates will be available from Audi, BMW and Mercedes.

Inflated opinion

I am generally happy with my VW Golf SV, but there is a distinct vibration when you drive over surface imperfections. Could different tyres improve this? HC

You don't give your wheel and tyre sizes. If it's on 15- or 16-inch wheels you could try lowering the pressures to 31psi all round. If still uncomfortable, switch to softer Michelin Cross Climate tyres. If you have 17-inch wheels, it might be worth switching to 16s. To my mind, the Michelins are best as 205/55 R16s.

Brisk assessment

You assert that modern diesels are potential money pits. Why is this? Also, my Suzuki Vitara DDiS is being recalled to reprogram the engine control unit. Is this likely to affect its performance and economy? NL

The problems with diesel engines are caused by emissions equipment that has to be fitted to control the nitrogen oxides (NOx) they emit. Potential costs include exhaust gas recirculation valves (£600-£1,600) and particulate filters (£350 to clean, £600-£1,200 to replace). Engines also need a new timing belt, tensioner, water pump and auxiliary belt every four years. Owners of cars with the VW Group EA189 2.0-litre diesel that have been recalled for an NOx fix are finding a decrease in driveability, with usable torque coming in at 300rpm higher than before. This requires more gearchanges at low revs.

Mane bearing

We’re looking for a compact 4x4 to tow a horsebox. Our budget is £3,000. Can any of the smaller 4x4s can pull up to 2,500kg? MW

A short-wheelbase Nissan Terrano II 2.7 or 3.0 would be ideal, assuming you can find a good one. Or a 1991-1999 SWB Mitsubishi Shogun or Pajero, which is smaller than later Shoguns (but be sure to check it carefully for rust).

Fractured harm

The heater of my 2008 Vauxhall Zafira diesel automatic was not working and I found that the cooling system header tank was empty. The oil is clean and there’s no emulsion inside the filler cap. Any thoughts? AC

If the transmission heat exchanger is situated in the radiator, this needs to be checked urgently because a fracture leading to coolant in the gearbox not only prevents proper engine cooling, it can also destroy the automatic ’box. It’s not just a matter of topping up fluids.

Three-pointed stir

I have a four-year-old Mercedes C180 CGI six-speed automatic. At 27,000 miles the gearchange became rough, so my dealer did a software update that cost £240. He said if that didn’t work he would ask Mercedes to contribute towards a new torque converter. It didn’t work – but Mercedes suggested changing the gearbox oil and I paid another £270. Despite a smoother change, I feel the gears are still jumping. Have you heard of this fault before? BLM

There have been a few problems with this transmission, which Mercedes dealers should be be fully aware of – and be able to fix.

Firm opinion

We are thinking of changing our 2010 Skoda Yeti, which my wife finds uncomfortable as a passenger. Which car of similar size and layout would have a more relaxing ride? CS

A Renault Kadjar with 215/60 R16 tyres is very comfortable. On high-spec models, adjustable driver’s lumbar support also helps. It’s best with four-wheel drive, because that includes four-wheel independent suspension. As a cheaper alternative, a Dacia Duster 1.2 TCe 124 4x4 on 65-profile 16-inch tyres is good, too. Other options include the Suzuki Vitara and the Seat Ateca on at least 55-profile tyres.

Dark side of the moan

Although my headlight beams have been corrected and I can see further ahead, the illumination of my Mercedes W210 E-class is still not great. It’s a 2.0-litre Kompressor, made in 2000, so I guess the plastic lenses might need attention. KN

You can make the headlight lenses transparent again with a careful application of metal polish.

Miles better

My 10-year-old Saab 9-5 Vector 2.0 needs replacing after 110,00 miles. With no low-mileage versions on the market, what would you recommend as the nearest used equivalent? PT

The Ford Mondeo 2.0SCTI Ecoboost 240 Powershift, or a Jaguar XE 2.0i 240 (with the same Ford chain cam engine) with eight-speed torque converter auto.

Smart thinking

My daughter wants to change her 2009 Smart ForTwo for something bigger. She has £12,000 plus the trade-in value of the Smart. What would you suggest for manily local journeys, plus the occasional 200-mile round trip? PW

She might be able to get a current Smart ForFour for that. She definitely can get a Renault Twingo, or a Dacia Sandero Stepway (though that might not have the right image). She could also consider the Suzuki Ignis, Renault Captur, SsangYong Tivoli, Suzuki Vitara or a Dacia Duster.

Hit parade

My 2010 BMW 318SE was hit by another car. Repairs are estimated at £3,100 plus VAT and the estimated value after repair is £7,800. I could spend £8,000 more to replace it with a used car that’s smaller. What would you suggest? PB

You could get a practical, reliable and economical Honda Jazz 1.4iVTEC CVT-7 for that money.

Soft option

I’m considering fitting Michelin Cross Climate tyres to my B7-series VW Passat for year-round use. Would I have to activate the vehicle’s winter tyres setting permanently? WT

I guess that the winter tyres setting is either lower pressures or a speed warning. In my experience (10,000 miles over a year), 215/55 R17 Cross Climates work best at comparatively low pressures (31psi stone cold). But it’s worth experimenting.

Youth policy

We need to replace our Fiat 500 with an SUV to accommodate grandchildren (two in seats, one with a booster cushion). We have a budget of £10,000 so what would you suggest? JB

Your biggest problem will come from the size of the child seats, because many are now so large they will not fit three side by side – or even one each side with space for someone else between. Your first job is to measure the child seats you propose to use, then work from that. Your most likely contender is a Citroën C4 Picasso, which has three full-size seats across the back. SUVs of a similar size don’t provide as much width.

Little and large

I have a Vauxhall Zafira as a caravan tow car and intend to buy a small automatic for day-to-day use. It must be cheap to tax and insure. My budget is £8,000 and my shortlist includes the Toyota Yaris hybrid and Honda Jazz. What alternatives you can recommend? AC

Both are good choices. The Jazz has the most practical interior, but the Yaris has a better hybrid system and is zero rated for VED.

Extension leads

I drive a Honda CR-V petrol 4WD and am looking to replace it with something similar, such as a Nissan Qashqai. We want all-wheel drive, but most manufacturers only offer diesel and we’d prefer petrol. What cars should we consider? BB

As diesel declines, the situation is improving. Peugeot offers its 2008 and 3008 with the 1.2 PureTech 130 engine and Grip Control, which combines a clever differential with all weather tyres for excellent traction. Other options include the Toyota RAV4 2.5, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, Suzuki Vitara S and SX4-S-Cross. The status-free bargain is the Dacia Duster 1.2 TCe 125 4WD at £14,895 and it’s actually very good.

Light ail

My seven-year-old Citroën C6 runs perfectly but the dashboard lights work only intermittently. A main dealer will charge too much to look into the fault, so what could I try? RJ

You shouldn’t consider running a C6 without joining the Citroën Club (citroencarclub.org.uk), which is invaluable for information on the best marque specialists.

Korea advice

My wife and I have run Hyundais for nine years, with excellent reliability and service. The warranty of our i30 expires in June so we are considering replacing it with a used ix20. Is this a good idea? JS

Go for the ix20 or a Kia Venga – they are basically the same car.

Big bang theory

My friend’s five-year-old VW Eos, last serviced in spring 2015, ground to a halt and was found to have no oil. The recovery man said that none had been added during that service. Could it really have run for 18 months without oil? PH

It’s unlikely. I recommend an oil and filter change every 12 months or 10,000 miles, whichever comes first. In this instance it’s the owner’s fault for not checking the oil, allowing it to run low and causing the engine to self-destruct.

Neutral stance

My 2011 Saab 9-3 turbodiesel estate auto runs perfectly unless it is stationary in traffic. Immediately on coming to a halt, engine idling and foot on brake, the car judders three times then settles. When I accelerate it judders again, but less noticeably. But if I select neutral on stopping, there is no judder. What is wrong? AH

My first suspicion would be the transmission torque converter, but it could be an engine management issue. The GM/Alfa Romeo/Fiat 1.9 diesel has a poor reliability record.

Bigger is better

I have owned Toyota hybrids for more than 12 years. I ordered a new Prius with 15in wheels in order to get the CO2 down to 70g/km but every dealer I tried for a test drive didn’t have an example with this size of wheel. Have I done the right thing? IC

Strangely, the latest Prius seems much nicer to drive on 17in wheels than 15s. The low rolling resistance of the 15in tyres helps it achieve 70g/km for zero-rated VED and congestion charge exemption.

False economy?

I have a 2003 Honda CR-V 2.0i VTEC and always use 99 Ron petrol. However, 95 Ron petrol is 29p less per litre, so can I safely use the cheaper grade with an additive? HH

I always recommend using the best quality fuel. Over 20 years I’ve found that it delivers 6-8 per cent better mpg as well as keeping the fuel system clean. Saving pennies might end up costing you pounds.

Comfort zone

We have to replace our 21-year-old Citroën Xantia Estate. We need a five-seat MPV with best-in-class ride and a large boot. Would a Citroën C4 Grand Picasso be the best bet? GA

Yes. An alternative would be a Mazda5 1.6d TS2 on 16in wheels.

A good deal?

We are trading our 2014/64 Renault Megane CC 1.6 dCi 130 with 12,000 miles for a 2015/65 Peugeot 308 1.6HDI 120 GT line (with zero road tax) which has done an above average 20,000 miles in the hands of the local Peugeot dealer’s area accountant. The car will be fully serviced, valeted and fitted with two new front tyres so, together with a refurbishment on one diamond cut front wheel, will be brought back to showroom condition. The dealer wants £5,000 to part-exchange. Do you think it’s a decent deal? AW

Why? You are trading a high-tech chain-cam engine for a belt-cam unit that requires AdBlue urea additive (to reduce emissions) and has a higher mileage than your current car. It would be crazy to spend £5,000 on a deal such as this.

Channel high land

I want to replace my Ford Focus 1.6 Titanium with something a bit smaller, with a higher seating position. Most of our mileage is in Guernsey, but we also often tour the UK. Any ideas? GH

Try the Hyundai ix20, Kia Venga, Ford B-Max and maybe the new  Suzuki Ignis (on sale in January).

Pull the other one

I keep seeing a Romanian-registered truck with a different registration displayed at the back of its trailer. Is this legal? And if there was an accident, how would the driver be traced? MY

It happens because tractor units pull lots of different trailers, but the registration plates of tractor and trailer are supposed to match. In the event of an accident, police would need the tractor unit’s registration rather than the trailer’s.  

Flat broke

I have a 2007 Vauxhall Corsa with low-profile tyres, fitted in June. The front right has been losing significant pressure every week since then. I’m as sure as I can be that the tyres don’t leak, so do I need to replace the wheel? TG

The alloy wheel has become porous, most probably at the rim. It is potentially very dangerous. You could ask a tyre fitter to reseat the tyres on the rims but it would be safer to buy new wheels. They needn’t be too expensive – try tyremen.co.uk for a selection.

Reel life

I drive 9,000 miles per year in my Mitsubishi Outlander 2.2 diesel. I read that diesel vehicles can experience emission problems as they get older, especially if they don’t do many miles. Should I bite the bullet and get a petrol car? If so, what? As a keen angler I need room for my fishing rods. KS

Modern diesels’ particulate filters fill up with soot and can cost £3,000 to replace, so that’s the big expense you face. You could replace it with a current model Outlander PHEV plug-in petrol hybrid, or a cheaper Toyota RAV4 petrol hybrid.

His or hers?

My wife and I need to sell one of our cars. I drive a 2010 Mercedes C-class 2.1 with 73,000 miles and my wife has a 2014 Skoda Octavia 1.2 with 27,000 miles. Which would you keep? GS

The Mercedes is the more robust of the two, but will eventually run into diesel particulate filter problems. The Octavia seems the more environmentally friendly choice, but there have been problems with the 1.2 TSI and, judging by the number of complaints I receive, VW Group vehicles are nothing like as reliable as buyers expect them to be.

Superb goal

I have a 2009 Ford Mondeo 2.0 TDCi 140 Zetec. It has done 110,000 miles and has been very reliable. With a timing belt change imminent, should I replace the car now? I like the idea of a BMW 520d Touring, but think a virtually new Mondeo estate would be more sensible. My budget is £20,000. What do you think? AH

The car is definitely due a new belt and ancillaries. BMW’s 2.0-litre N47 diesels have had a lot of timing chain problems. It’s worth considering the new Skoda Superb Estate.

Negative remarks

My 2013 Vauxhall Meriva SE Turbo 140 wouldn’t start due to a fault with the immobiliser system. An AA patrol removed the negative cable from the battery, then reattached it after a few minutes, then the car started as normal. I subsequently had to reset various things and the radio presets had gone missing. The AA man said that this is a known problem. Is it? GD

 I haven’t heard about a specific problem, but I guess that whenever the power is cut, which it would be if the earth cable is disconnected, the ECU reverts to the most recent settings it remembers. At least you did not have to enter a radio code, which is the case with Fords.

Open to ideas

My wife and I are planning to sell her 2004 Mini convertible and my 2004 Honda S2000 and replace them with a used, quality four-seater convertible. I had thought of the Audi A3, but my wife is keen on a folding hardtop. Would a VW Eos suit us? SS

Eos folding hardtops have too many sections for the seals to remain effective without very careful maintenance. Alternatives include the Volvo C70, Ford Focus CC, Renault Mégane CC, Peugeot 207CC, 307CC and 308CC, plus the BMW E93 3-series CC.

Slip road

My 2006 Honda CRV EX spends lots of time on leafy, damp A-roads. Which new tyres would you recommend? CO

 Assuming you can get them in the correct size, I’d plump for Michelin Cross Climates. Failing that, Goodyear Vector 4-Seasons Gen 2, Vredestein Quatrac, Pirelli Scorpion Verde or Nokian Weatherproof are all good in mud, snow and slush and can be used all year round. You’ll need to change them all, partly because your Honda has automatic four-wheel drive, so tyres need to be the same circumference, and partly because all-weather tyres cannot be mixed with other compound types.

Child’s play

My daughter’s Nissan Tino is close to the end of its useful life. She has children of four and six, so needs boot space for bikes and scooters. She likes the higher driving position of the Tino, and has a budget of £10,000. What would be a suitable replacement? SA

Lots of similar cars: Ford C-Max, Citroën C4 Picasso, etc. The most reliable seems to be the Toyota Verso so I suggest the 1.8i Valvematic Multidrive S (CVT auto). I’d avoid diesel engines for low-mileage use.

Pump action

My wife’s 2011 Fiat Panda is due a cambelt change at 72,000 miles. You frequently suggest that it is best to change the water pump at the same time as cam belts. The Fiat dealer says he will look at the water pump but not necessarily replace it. My wife needs convincing that it is best to have it done. What are your thoughts? NM

It would be stupid not to replace belt, tensioner and water pump at the same time. The pumps are prone to developing leaks. If the dealer charges more than the standard London area Fiat dealer price of £300 + VAT, he’s ripping you off.

Click bate

The wipers of my MGF fail after working for a few minutes. While waiting for them to start again, I can hear a double click of a relay every few seconds. What’s the problem? MG

That tells me that the motor is worn out so, rather than start a wiring fire, the relay is clicking open to cut the current.

The joy of ASX

Does the Mitsubishi ASX 2.2 DI-D 4WD auto have a good reliability record? I have been offered a deal on a one-year-old, 40,000-mile model and would hope to keep it for many years. Would you recommend it? JF

It has a very good, chain-cam engine which, at 2,268cc, is big for an SUV of this size. It has a six-speed torque converter automatic gearbox.

Winding down

On several occasions I have found the windows of my car halfway down. It seems I inadvertently put pressure on the fob when it’s in my pocket, which has unlocked the car and lowered the windows. Is it possible to have this feature be disabled? NS

You can get your VW dealer to disable the “global opening” function of your keyfobs.

Slippery slope

My wife has a 2005 Honda Jazz that is maintained by a main dealer. Although it passed an MoT test, the handbrake does not hold the car on my sloping driveway. Is there anything I can do? JC

Try an independent garage. New rear calipers and parking brake cables might be needed. Until the handbrake is fixed, leave the car in gear; chock the tyres with bricks for peace of mind.

Brick lane

My Skoda Rapid 1.4 TSI DSG auto, bought new in 2013, was written off after it suddenly accelerated into a wall while I was negotiating a small roundabout. Why did it do this? BH

An engine surge can happen with any automatic. I always urge owners to use their left foot for the brake and right for the accelerator, so they can stop quickly. It can be challenging to learn that technique if you’re used to driving one-footed, but it’s the safest way.

Offside decision

I can’t open the offside rear door of my 1998 Honda Accord. My garage says it will have to damage the inner panels to attempt a repair. Is there a less brutal solution? LW

 Push a bent wire coathanger between the outer window rubber and the glass, then twist it and pull it back up to operate the latch. It’s how thieves used to break into cars before they became more secure.

Sweden sour

My son had the radiator of his Volvo replaced, but after 70 miles oil started to spray from the engine. The RAC report said a hose hadn’t been connected properly. Was it the fault of a mechanic, or could it have been an unfortunate coincidence? MS

The RAC report sounds clear enough. It’s the responsibility of the garage to clean the engine bay and repair the poorly connected oil feed.

Kids are united

I have a 1998 Mercedes S280 which I love but my children tell me it is not safe by modern standards. If you agree, I will get a smaller car, but require S-class comfort. What is your opinion of the Honda Jazz? BQ

This is the huge W140 S-class, so I wonder if your children are more concerned about the damage it could do rather than any harm that could come to you. A Jazz is small, practical and efficient, but does not offer S-class comfort. Look at a Honda CR-V, Toyota C-HR or a Peugeot 2008 1.2 PureTech 110.

Costly Corsa?

My daughter has a 1999 Vauxhall Corsa Club 1.0. It would break her heart to see it scrapped, so is there a club for Corsa enthusiasts, where somebody might care for it? HM

Try the corsa-b.uk/forum site.

Regeneration game

I have a two-month-old 2016 Nissan Qashqai dCi 130 4x4. The noisy cooling fan comes on randomly and runs for up to five minutes, even after a short journey, accompanied by a burning smell from the engine bay. Could it be the diesel particulate filter (DPF) regenerating? DL

Yes. The noisy cooling fan and burning smell are the result of active regeneration of the DPF. It should be nothing to worry about, but it’s best not to switch off while active regeneration is taking place.

Stick or twist?

My 2005 Nissan Primera SVE (64,000 miles) requires work to the ABS system and some repairs to minor scuffs. Apart from the ABS problem it runs well. I do only 5,000 miles a year, so should I change it? JR

It’s 11 years old and the problems will inevitably increase. As it’s not worth much, I would fix the ABS, forget the scuffs and keep it until something truly expensive fails.

Czech check

I own a Skoda Fabia 1.2 TSI 110 DSG. Does it have a belt- or chain-driven camshaft. If it’s a chain, could it be one of those VW Group items that’s gained a poor reputation? PH

It has a belt.

Very old bill

In Ticehurst, East Sussex, two pensioners sit on a bench armed with a hand-held speed checker. Any vehicle exceeding 30mph is reported to the police. Will the reports put forward by these worthy pensioners be considered sufficient evidence in court? KPB

No, because they do not conform to the rules of corroborated evidence – unlike a police officer with a calibrated radar or laser gun.

Lidl and large

I entered a Lidl car park at 10.43am and left at 10.50. The same day I returned at 7.20pm and left at 7.27. Photographs were taken of my car entering in the morning and leaving in the evening, resulting in a £45 fine for an alleged nine-hour stay. Where are the photographs of my car leaving in the morning and returning in the evening? Is there anything I can do? DO

This is actually quite common, but plainly ridiculous. I’ve known supermarket customers who do their shopping within the two-hour free parking period, then return to the site’s filling station later that day and receive a penalty for overstaying the two-hour limit.

Haul that Jazz

I drive a Honda Jazz SE, which I have had for 14 years and 83,000 miles. I am looking to change it for another four-door hatch of similar size and fancy something different. Reliability and economy are important. SF

Nothing else has such a practical cabin. The new Jazz 1.3i VTEC CVT-7 is outstandingly economical (I got 58mpg on test), but if you want to break ranks the best alternative is the Mazda2 1.5 Skyactiv auto.

Top chat

I have been researching used Audi and BMW four-seaters with retractable hard-tops and have been advised to consider the VW Eos. I am looking to spend no more than £5,000. What would you recommend? RL

The Eos is handsome but its roof is very complicated, which means lots of potential leaks. It’s better to stick to something with a two- or three-part roof: Volvo C70, Ford Focus CC, Renault Mégane CC or Peugeot 307/308CC. There are no manual folding hard-tops.

Five iron

My son is on the lookout for a MkV VW Golf GTI with a DSG gearbox. Are you aware of any likely problems? AM

They can be annoying to drive because the DSG is intermittently slow to take up drive and you never know when this will happen. But it is the more reliable six-speed wet-clutch DSG that requires fresh fluid and filter every three to four years.

Sum times

I have just had a quotation for a top-end Mazda CX-3 that includes a £1,500 discount for taking finance. As I do not want/need finance, I am told I can cancel that part of the deal within the first 14 days and still keep the £1,500 contribution. Is this right? GB

Possibly, but I don’t approve of undertaking any kind of deal and then reneging.

The belt tolls

My wife’s 2011 Citroën C3 Picasso has done 15,000 miles and is serviced annually. I believe the timing belt does not need changing until 50,000 miles. Is that correct? CL

The petrol engines all have chain-driven camshafts. Assuming it’s a diesel, you need to think about time as well as miles. I would get the belt, water pump and tensioner replaced within the next year.

Age concern

I will be retiring from work in 2017 and would like to keep my company car, a 2015 Audi A6 Avant 2.0 TDI S line Ultra. It will have done 50,000 miles and I expect to pay about £20,000. Is this good buy? CG

No – once modern diesels reach this age, there are too many potentially expensive things that are likely to go wrong sooner rather than later. Go for petrol.

Youth policy  

I’m looking to spend up to £6,000 on a car with low insurance costs, for a driver aged 17. Which models should I consider? BB

I’d look at the Fiat 500 or Panda, Citroën C1, Peugeot 108, Toyota Aygo (these last three are almost identical), as well as the similarly similar VW Up, Seat Mii or Skoda Citigo.

Driving ambition

I bought a new VW Golf 1.6 SE in 2001 and it has done 150,000 trouble-free miles. Should I sell it and buy the equivalent new Golf while it’s still trouble-free? If not, how long should I keep it? NT

That will be a Golf Mk4 and it has done really well. Today’s equivalent Golf is a 1.0-litre turbocharged Mk7, or the cheaper Skoda Octavia. Your Golf is worth next to nothing so you might as well keep running it until it expires or is no longer economical to repair.

Quad rotation

I have just had Michelin Cross Climate tyres fitted to my Kia Cee’d and the difference in ride and handling compared with the factory-fitted tyres is remarkable. However, I was told that they can only be fitted in pairs. In the event of a puncture, can my space-saver spare be used in conjunction with a Cross Climate? RW

Cross Climates are directional and have to be fitted all round, but you can use your non-directional emergency space saver on any corner.

Vanishing act

With regard to recent letters about distracting windscreen reflections, I get a piece of black felt and place it over the dash top in front of the steering wheel, securing it with sticky-backed Velcro. My journey to work is almost entirely eastbound and this solution enables me to see clearly despite the low sun. RP

Black felt can block the screen vents. You could also use Polarising sunglasses, but the simplest way is simply to ignore the reflection rather than obsess about it. Look straight through it at the road ahead and, other than in extreme circumstances, it simply won’t be there.

April fuels day

Could you clarify the imminent changes to road tax? I've ordered a new VW Transporter. Should I register it in March or April? JR

From April 1, revised VED rules apply to new vehicles. For the first year after registration the new VED will be based on CO2 emissions and will cost between £0 for zero CO2 to £2,000. From the second year after registration, all vehicles emitting more than 0g/km CO2 will be taxed at a uniform £140 a year (£10 reduction for plug-in hybrids), plus a £310 a year luxury tax for vehicles costing more than £40,000. Whether to tax your Transporter from March or from April depends on its CO2 output. Just remember that the first-year tax for registering after April may be more than for registering in March.

Gentle touch

My daughter has an arm injury that makes using a manual gearchange and conventional handbrake impossible. An automatic gearbox would address the first problem, while various types of parking brake are available. What would you suggest she buys? TB

I’d go for a Honda HR-V 1.5i VTEC CVT-7 or the new Toyota C-HR hybrid. Both have gentle, CVT automatic gearboxes and a two-stage parking brake that works really well. The main parking brake switch clamps the rear brakes for parking, but another switch holds the brakes lightly if the car is at a standstill, then releases automatically when the driver moves off.

Lost, series one

I own a 2015 VW Touareg. The VW website says owners can update the satnav with a free download, but doesn’t list the Touareg. My dealer quoted £130 for an upgrade, which is outrageous. What do you think? MB

It’s because the satnav and comms system in your Touareg are from an earlier generation. There have been a lot of changes in the past couple of years.

Fear of interference

I have a 15-year-old Audi A3 1.6 petrol with 86,000 trouble-free miles. I’ve never had it serviced, but have changed the oil and filter every year, irrespective of mileage. It had a new cambelt at 46,000 miles, but still has the original spark plugs. Should I replace the cambelt and plugs, or not meddle? HB

I share your fear of interference, but one of the spark plugs might break up and damage the piston crown, so I’d change them. If the water pump fails and flings off the drive belt, the engine will self-destruct. Unfortunately the cost of belt, tensioner and water pump is likely to be more than £500.  

Flash guard on

The airbag light on my wife’s 2012 Mazda MX-5 has an intermittent fault; it flashes for a while and then stops. This usually occurs after the driver’s seat has been moved. I did not fiddle with the underseat electrical connections as I understand the airbag might deploy, so what should I do? DO

It’s likely the occupancy sensor connection getting pulled apart by frequently moving the seat. Talk to airbagman.co.uk

Czech mate

We want to exchange our six-year-old VW Golf 2.0 TDI estate for a petrol-engined hatchback with a manual handbrake. Any tips? PM

The Seat Leon is similar to a Golf, with a manual handbrake, but it changed to an electronic switch for the 2017 facelift. A Skoda Octavia still has a traditional handbrake. The best engine is the 1.4 TSI 125. Avoid the dry-clutch DSG automatic.

Handsome cab

I’m thinking of buying an Audi A6 Avant 2.0 TDI Ultra Black for private hire work. Would it be suitable? AH

I think 20in wheels and tyres on a 2.0-litre diesel are plain stupid. Get an A6 with smaller diameter wheels and you’ll be fine.

Queue guardians  

Q I want to order a new Ford Focus RS but there is a one-year wait at my dealer. I have seen outlets claiming they can beat the waiting list. Is there a catch? ME

A It depends how much you are prepared to pay over the list price to get one early – it might cost an extra £10,000. What happens is that people get their names down early to secure a car then sell it on immediately for, let’s say, a £5,000 premium to a specialist dealer, who adds his cut of £5,000. If you take this option, make sure the car has a full UK specification and warranty.

Labour pains

Q I have a 2007 Toyota Auris 1.6 petrol and use a main dealer for work because its customer service is exemplary. When an engine warning light came on it diagnosed a faulty ignition coil on one of the cylinders. This was replaced for £360; £122 for the parts and £178 labour. The labour charge seems extortionately expensive. Am I right? PW

A They will have charged at least £80 for electronic diagnosis, to isolate the cause. This might be viewed as a rip-off when the problem is obvious, but probably not in your case.

Tough choice

Q I have owned my 2003 Honda S2000 from new and want to keep it for a long time. What should I do in addition to annual or 10,000-mile oil changes? GK

A This has a tough chain-cam engine, which will be fine with your oil change regime. The brake fluid probably needs replacing, ditto the coolant. You could also change the gearbox and differential oils.

Feeling flat

Q After a puncture, one tyre of my Mazda6  was replaced with a new Bridgestone, since when the handling hasn’t felt as sharp. Might this be caused by differences in tyre wear? RD

A Check the pressures first. The new tyre might have been overinflated.

Fashion victim

Q My old car had 205/55/R16 tyres. The new car’s 235/50 R17 items give poorer economy, longer braking distances in the wet, are noisier and cost more. Are there any advantages? AM

A Wider, low-profile tyres are only necessary on high-performance cars. They do look better than smaller items, but at the expense of what you describe.

Sense of direction

Q I find new LED indicators are not very clear at times. Do you agree that there needs to be new legislation for indicator lights? DB

A We’re not yet out of the EC, which imposes lighting regulations on us. Once we are out, anything we sell in the EC will still have to conform to EC regulations so there is no sense in creating another set of rules for the UK. I agree that some rear indicators are a bit too small, though.

Steer clear

Q Is it still the rule that if you drive less than 15,000 miles a year and do mainly short runs, you’re better off with a petrol engine rather than a diesel? MH

A It’s not a rule but sound advice. It’s best to avoid diesels if you do fewer than 15,000 miles a year because of the high maintenance cost of modern emissions equipment, which offsets economy benefits. Besides, small petrol engines are now almost as economical.

Time for tee

Q I need a small five-door, petrol, automatic, estate or hatchback with flat luggage area wide enough to take a set of golf clubs transversely. What would you suggest? JI

A The Honda HR-V 1.5i VTEC CVT-7 EX meets all your criteria.

Slim pickings

Q I wanted to replace my 2006 BMW 120i with the current version of the same model, but it is wider and won’t fit our garage. What else should I consider? DH

A This is becoming a common problem as cars get bigger all round. No new equivalent is narrower than your 120i. You could go down a size to a VW Polo GTI, Seat Ibiza Cupra or an Audi S1, but even then you might have to fold in the mirrors to get it to fit.

Trouble Dutch

Q I received a parking ticket in Haarlem, Holland. On my return I noticed that I have five days to pay, or the matter will be handed to a debt recovery company in England. What, if anything, can I do about this? AR

A  I doubt they’ll chase you back to the UK, but they might. If you don’t want to contest it because the charge is accurate, pay up.

Saddle stitch-up?  

Q I bought a small horsebox in mid-August and taxed it the same day. Under the new system, the previous owner notified the DVLA and was sent a refund for unused VED from September onwards. This meant it was taxed twice during August. What do you think of this rip-off? BB

A Many people have complained about this. Unfortunately, that’s how the new system works. It was presumably devised to reduce the administrative workload.

Down time

Q I drive an Audi A3 with an S-tronic automatic gearbox. I have been told that on steep inclines it’s advisable to go down through the gears using the paddles. I usually brake and let the gearbox do the work. Which is right? GP

A On descending a steep incline, the brakes will heat up if used constantly and any moisture in the fluid will boil, so it is wise advice to descend in a lower gear.

Let it B

Q I have a Peugeot Partner Tepee to carry my wife’s wheelchair. Now she is more mobile and can sit in the front, but the Peugeot’s door does not open wide enough. What should I look at? GH

A The Ford B-Max has no pillars, front-hinged front doors and sliding rears, to give unimpeded access.

Share option

Q Will my son be insured to drive a French-registered and insured car? SH

A You will probably find the French car is insured for any licensed driver. That’s the way the system works in most countries, apart from the UK.

Irate of inflation

Q The garage inflated the new set of tyres on my Ford Focus to 37psi but the handbook suggests 31psi. I used an old pen-type gauge to check and I wondered if it is still accurate. What do you reckon? MB

A Your pen gauge might be out, but 37psi is ridiculous. Get a new barrel-type gauge (nothing digital) and set them at 31psi when cold (first thing in the morning).

Video evidence

Q I am considering buying a dash camera but wonder whether it might be interrogated and used in evidence against me? JB

A Yes, it could be.

Time for reflection

Q A friend has twice had both door mirror casings stolen. Replacements are expensive, so is there any way of deterring the theft of these items in future? AP

A Mirror pods are often damaged by passing cars, so the thieves are tapping into the replacement market. He could make the casings so distinctive that considerable work would be needed to match them to another car, reducing their appeal to thieves.

Trading places

Q My daughter wants to trade an old VW Golf for a frugal car for short urban journeys and weekend trips. Is a Skoda Yeti suitable? JT

A I suggest Seat’s new Ateca or a Peugeot 2008 1.2 THP 130 with Grip Control.

Candid cambelt

Q My 2011 VW Passat has done 43,000 miles. The dealer says VW recommends a cambelt replacement every five years, at a cost of £479. Is this right? JL

A Yes, but it will also need a new cambelt, tensioner and water pump. If the £479 includes all three, it’s reasonable value.

Low loader

Q I have a 2010 Ford Focus 1.6 TDCi with 84,000 miles. Do potential particulate filter/dual mass flywheel problems mean I should sell it before the bills mount? PS

A Yes, it’s probably time for it to go. The bills are likely to mount sooner rather than later.

Compound fracture

Q My daughter bought a 2007 Mini Cooper S that has two different sets of tyres. The rears are run-flats with the correct RSC markings and the fronts are normal tyres. She’s been advised to replace the rears with normal tyres, but wouldn’t it be better if they were all run-flats. Any ideas? MT

A I would stick to run-flats all round because tyre repair kits often don’t work and could leave your daughter stranded.

Luxury of choice

Q I want a classic soft-top sports car. Important criteria are good engineering, performance and reliability. My budget is about £50,000. CPG

A The Porsche 911 is an obvious option – either an air-cooled 993-series if you can find one or a water-cooled 997/991 (not a 996, the 911 no one wants). You would get an extremely rare Alfa Romeo RZ for about £40,000. I wouldn’t go for a Mercedes SL. The good ones from 1959-1961 are £1,000,000. The R113 Pagodas aren’t very good to drive, R107s rust in the sills and bulkhead, R129s are too electronically complex.

That figures

Q My four-year-old Honda Civic’s speedometer consistently reads higher than the speed indicated on my satnav. Is it likely that speed cameras would read closer to my satnav rather than my speedometer? SR

A Yes. Satnavs consistently show a discrepancy of about 2-3mph against speedos at 70mph on most cars. You’re fine with 72mph indicated on the speedometer because it’s a true 69mph.

Hard times

Q To improve the ride on our 2016 Nissan Qashqai, I changed from 19- to 17-inch wheels with 215/60 tyres but it made little appreciable difference. What can I do? PS

A I suspect the pressures are too high. Lowering them will probably restore tyre compliance and solve your problem.  

Petit fours

Q I prefer four gears to six. Which estates/SUVs (Mercedes E-class, Ford Mondeo, Skoda Superb or similar) have four gears? I prefer petrol to diesel. WJ

A If you mean manual, there aren’t any within recent memory. If you mean autos, there were plenty up to about six years ago, but no big cars. They’ve all had five-, six- or seven-speed boxes for years – and eight or even nine are increasingly common.

Rate of inflation

Q My wife received a letter from the DVSA (dated July 2015) regarding a possible safety problem with the passenger airbag on her Toyota Corolla. After six months I telephoned the DVSA, expressing concern because I’d heard nothing further. I was advised to contact the local Toyota dealer and last January the dealer said parts were not yet available, but that they would make out a job card and contact me as soon as they were in a position to carry out the work. If the problem was sufficiently important to warrant a recall, why did it take so long to get the corrective work done? EL

A It’s a worldwide problem affecting more than 50 million cars fitted with Takata airbags. Because of the huge number, replacements cannot suddenly be conjured out of thin air.

Cash injection?

Q My 2005 Renault Modus 1.5 dCi displays a “check fuel-injection” warning. My garage and a diesel injection specialist have found no problems. The car is regularly serviced and maintained. Any ideas? ED

A At that age one or more of the injectors could be close to the end of its life. Keep an eye on the engine oil level, in case fuel is passing from one or more injector into the sump.

Michelin man

Q My 2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta Lusso needs new front tyres. The garage has recommended Pirellis, but would Michelin Cross Climates be a better choice? AD

A You can now get 225/40 R18 Cross Climates, but they should be fitted to all four wheels. They are directional, so can be swapped front to back on the same side, but not side to side.

Art of darkness

Q I like my Ford Fiesta, except for a noticeable windscreen reflection that is becoming more pronounced in the low winter sunshine. Any thoughts? SB

A Some people are more inclined than others to look for screen reflections. It’s a bit psychological. If you ignore them they will occasionally but very rarely bother you. You could apply a strip to the top of your windscreen, but a heavy tint is illegal in Europe so you might get pulled over for it.

Ring of truth

Q I want to buy a speed camera detector so I don’t spend too much time watching my speedometer rather than the road ahead. Do you have any advice? MJ

A Stick to the limits. If you can’t see your speedometer, get a digital GPS mobile phone speed app and a cradle, then fix it in your line of sight. Most speedos are about 3mph optimistic at 70mph and a GPS app will tell you your true speed.

Seven up

Q I am trying to replace a Renault Scénic 1.4 TCe Expression. The new Scénic is too big and I am considering a Renault Captur 1.2 TCe. I need a high seating position, a petrol turbocharged engine and a chain cam. I also need to tow a 1931 Austin 7 on a trailer. Can you recommend anything? RG

A The obvious alternative to the nice little Captur is a Peugeot 2008 1.2 Puretech 130 six-speed with Grip Control, from £18,500.

Rover vitesse

Q While driving back from France on the Autoroute du Soleil recently, I was amazed to see a car registration displayed on the overhead matrix sign with the injunction “slow down!” Minutes later, a car bearing that registration flashed past. Were you aware of being watched so closely when overseas? NH

A I’ve not seen that before. It sounds friendlier than an on-the-spot fine, although that might be waiting for the speeding car at the next péage (toll booth).

Devon loch

Q I have a Fiat Panda TwinAir 4x4 and often commute along flooded Devon lanes in winter. I was told cold water would ruin the catalytic converter, so it will need replacing at the first MoT and yearly thereafter. Is that right? GR

A The shock of freezing cold water on the almost red-hot matrix of a cat converter can shatter it, but this is rare.

Losing streak

Q I can’t remove wiper-blade streaks on my windscreen. A lot of the streaks are where I have had screen chips fixed, could they be the cause? DB

A Yes, because the repairs stand very slightly proud of the screen and create tiny tears in the wiper blades.

Web of intrigue

Q I want to purchase a new Mercedes. Are there any problems with buying a car via a website? GS

A There’s no reason not to buy online via carwow or similar. Do not buy a car that won’t immediately be registered to you, whether pre-registered or not.

An inspector calls

Q Do you know a company that can fully check used cars prior to purchase? RR

A Try the RAC, ADAC or Scotia Vehicle Inspections.

Biting point

Q I have had to replace the clutch of my 2002 Honda CR-V after 126,000 miles. It was very expensive, so is it time to change the car? SA

A The CR-V won’t be worth very much. Having spent a lot on the clutch, it makes sense to get a bit more value from it before selling. Consider replacing it with a Peugeot 2008, a Renault Captur or a Honda HR-V.

A winter’s tale

Q My son has taken his 2001 BMW X5 4.4 automatic off the road for the winter. Should he leave the handbrake on? What else will keep it in good order? JC

A Parking brake off. Leave it in P, chock the wheels and overinflate the tyres. The battery will go flat unless it’s connected to a conditioning float charger. Make sure it has a statutory off-road notification (Sorn).

Gripping yarn

Q A friend suggested that low-profile tyres are fuel-efficient because their walls flex less and the rolling resistance is therefore lower. Is this true? IN

A Definitely not. Low-profile tyres are wider and have a broader contact patch with the road, which creates more drag.

Pit stop

Q My wife and I have 2013 Toyota Auris Hybrids. On both cars the rear discs have started to corrode and both service reports note that they were pitted with rust. The Toyota dealer says it is wear and tear. What are the long-term implications?  CE

A It’s normal for rear discs to corrode. Unless you regularly brake very hard, they do hardly any work and the pads do not clean off overnight rust.

Small talk

Q I read your column every week and do not recall one mention of the car I own, a Citroën C1 automatic. Is this because you never receive complaints about the C1?  PH

A The automated manual gearbox  can give trouble, but the C1 is great as cheap,  usefully reliable transport.

The right stuff

Q My 2011 Nissan Qashqai Tekna 2.0 dCi auto has done 59,000 miles. Is it worth changing the gearbox oil after five years? JN

A Definitely.

Protection racket?

Q We are thinking of buying a Nissan Qashqai with pearlescent white paint and cloth seats. The salesman advised a £299 paint and fabric protection treatment, because pearlescent paint is vulnerable to fading and bird lime. Is it worth it? AB

A That isn’t too greedy (they can ask as much as £500). It will be negotiable because it will cost him less than £100 and the rest is commission.

Highway tsar

Q When I was involved in highway engineering, the original idea was for speed humps to be about four metres long and 100mm high – a design that allows vehicles to drive up to the speed limit without causing discomfort or suspension damage. Is the blight of current humps due to ignorance, laziness, stupidity or a perceived sense that authorities must do something as long as it’s low-cost? PM

A Readers continue to destroy the inner shoulders of their tyres on the chamfered edges of humps by straddling them to minimise the shock. The insanity of blister humps is that, by straddling them, drivers have no need to reduce their speed but inflict damage to their tyres that could result in a high-speed blowout. So the humps serve no purpose, except to make money for contractors and to cause potentially serious damage.

Leak source

Q I have a 2009 Range Rover Sport TDV8 and the suspension fault light keeps coming on. The suspension air compressor has been replaced by a Land Rover specialist, along with both front height sensors. It was fine for a few days after, but now the light comes on when I start the car and, particularly, on uneven surfaces. Any ideas? GS

A That’s too specialised for me, but I’d guess at an air leak within one of the compressor unions. If not, the problem probably lies in one of the rubber bags in the air suspension – they have a limited life.

Reservoir dogged

Q I have a 2008 Mercedes E220 CDI Avantgarde auto estate. The screen washer fluid constantly needs topping up, even when it has hardly been used. I cannot see any leaks, but I have noticed a trail of fluid on the drive when I reverse out. Do you have any ideas? RD

A You’ve obviously got a leak, most probably from the pump seal. Most of these are press-fitted into the side of the reservoir and slight pressure can pop them out. To access it you might have to remove a front wheel and the wheel arch protector. If you don’t like grubbing around under cars, it’s a garage job.

Teuton car moan

Q My new Audi A6 Avant is missing two functions: the option to fold the door mirrors on locking, and being able to unlock all the doors or only the driver’s. This might seem trivial, but I want to reject the car if I can’t have these functions. What can I do? SB

A If you specifically ordered electric folding mirrors, you can reject the car for not having them but if you did not specifically order a feature, you cannot reject the car. The global opening of the doors and windows should be programmable and has been a feature of VW Group cars for many years.

Gripping yarn

Q A friend suggested that low-profile tyres are fuel-efficient because their walls flex less and the rolling resistance is therefore lower. Is this true? IN

A Definitely not. Low-profile tyres are wider and have a broader contact patch with the road, which creates more drag.

Web of intrigue

Q I want to purchase a new Mercedes. Are there any problems with buying a car via a website? GS

A There’s no reason not to buy online via carwow or similar. Do not buy a car that won’t immediately be registered to you, whether pre-registered or not.

Biting point

Q I have had to replace the clutch of my 2002 Honda CR-V after 126,000 miles. It was very expensive, so is it time to change the car? SA

A The CR-V won’t be worth very much. Having spent a lot on the clutch, it makes sense to get a bit more value from it before selling. Consider replacing it with a Peugeot 2008, a Renault Captur or a Honda HR-V.

Link tin

Q I bought a VW Polo 1.4 TSI in 2010. It has done 33,000 miles, so should I replace the cam chain soon? JP

A Volkswagen cam chain problems were caused by the varying quality of manufacture due to cost-cutting. It’s a lottery. The fact that yours has reached 33,000 miles should mean it will be fine as long as you change the oil and filter at least every 10,000 miles/12 months, whichever comes first.

The right stuff

Q My 2011 Nissan Qashqai Tekna 2.0 dCi auto has done 59,000 miles. Is it worth changing the gearbox oil after five years? JN

A  Definitely.

Fairly liquid

Q I can hear fuel sloshing beneath the front seats of my 2013 Vauxhall Astra 1.6 estate. Is it safe? JB

A  It will be water, because the drains in the lower door are blocked with protective wax. Poke them with a wooden skewer (to avoid damaging the paint).

Fool injection

Q My 2011 Audi A4 2.0 TDI has had a misfire for some time. If it were a petrol engine I’d fit new spark plugs, but what needs to be changed on a diesel? PH

A I’d wait because your car is due for the VW Group emissions recall on these EA189 engines. If it isn’t running properly after the remap, you can insist that the dealer gets it running cleanly. Usually a diesel will misfire because of an injector problem. It might help to add injector cleaner to the fuel tank and use the best quality diesel fuel.

Meter made

Q You often suggest fitting smaller diameter wheels to improve ride quality. As the speedometer and odometer work on wheel revolutions, will not a change in rim size affect their readings? SW

A No. The aim of switching to smaller wheels is to use deeper-profile tyres and put more tyre between the rims and the road. The circumference of the tyre stays almost the same.

Higher or lower

Q We have a 2002 Renault Laguna 2.2 diesel and a 1988 Jaguar XJS 3.6 auto. We would like to exchange both for a petrol estate with Laguna-like towing ability. What would you suggest? ST

A The Laguna might be worth no more than £500. The XJS could be worth up to £5,000 in top condition. It’s difficult to suggest a replacement estate when the exchange value might be anything from £1,000 to £5,500. Maybe a Volvo 940 estate at the lower end or a Land Rover Freelander i6 at the upper end.

Leaping Cat

Q I have an 82,000-mile Jaguar 2004 S-type. The engine runs well, but as soon as the revs reach 1,500-1,800 the tachometer needle starts to jump. What is wrong? EG

A The mass airflow sensor.

Chemical bothers

Q My daughter’s Mercedes SLK 200 was valeted a few weeks ago. The valeter hung an air-freshener over the gearlever, where it touched the centre console – and some chemicals within ate into the plasticised covering of the console, leaving a two-inch diameter mark. Mercedes quoted £800-plus to replace the entire console. After some negotiation, they offered to contribute £200. What can I do? SC

A Unfortunately for the well-meaning valeter, he is liable. Given his trade, he probably knows someone who can make a smart repair to the clearcoat lacquer of the console trim.

Like clockwork

Q My 2009 Ford Mondeo Titanium X Sport 2.5 petrol manual has done 85,000 miles. It runs very well and  the bodywork is generally good, so I’ve decided to keep it until repairs become uneconomical. Do you know of any technical issues that might crop up? JS

A Your Mondeo with the Volvo five-cylinder engine is quite rare. It might need a replacement timing belt, tensioner and water pump. It’s worth buttons right now, so I’d keep it and continue to enjoy it.

Covering letter

Q What is the difference between an insured warranty and a self-insured warranty? IS

A An insured warranty is covered by an insurance underwriter who effectively takes the risk and makes any payout. With a self-insured policy, the warranty company takes the risk and makes any payout.

Sweet chariot

Q In 2005 I bought a new Mercedes C-class Coupé diesel auto to see me into retirement. It now has 108,000 miles on the clock and runs sweetly on Shell V-Power diesel. It has been serviced annually but I am now thinking of giving her a treat by way of a new water pump, auxiliary belt, transmission oil and brake fluid. Do you think I am being overly generous? MB

A You are being very sensible.

Deals on wheels

Q My daughter is a single mother and wants to replace her basic 2008 Hyundai i10 with something inexpensive of similar size. What is the i10 worth and what should she consider? JW

A The main contenders here are a current i10, a Suzuki Celario or a Vauxhall Viva. A base model 2008 i10 1.1 Classic is worth £1,550 in part-exchange, but always remember that deals can be done.

Air display

Q I have a 2015 Mercedes E220 Bluetec diesel saloon with Hankook Ventus 225/50 R17 tyres, but the absence of a spare wheel is a constant source of worry when driving abroad. When I need to change the tyres, can I fit run-flats? If so, what make/size would you recommend? RP

A The car must have a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) warning yes, run-flats can be fitted. Bridgestone and Dunlop seem to have done the most development of this type of tyre. I think Hankook Ventus tyres have a rim-protecting raised strip around the sidewall. You might miss that.

Suzuki shift

Q My wife sold her 2005 Suzuki Alto automatic, but now regrets doing so as she cannot find a similarly sized replacement. The current Alto has exactly the same dimensions, but is not yet available in the UK. Will it be coming? MH

A I don’t think so. There was a subsequent Alto automatic until 2015. The smallest current Suzuki is the Celario, available as an automated manual.

Swede dreams

Q I need to replace my 90,000-mile 2006 Saab 9-5 1.9 TiD. Would a Volvo be a good alternative? AM

A The best option is a Mazda6 Skyactiv D, and most reliable would be a Kia Optima or Hyundai i40 1.7 CRDI. Volvo’s new 2.0-litre diesel and petrol engines appear trouble-free so far – and diesels give about 50mpg.

Three-pointed stir

Q My Mercedes GLA 250, which I bought new last March, developed a hollow resonating noise on some road surfaces. Mercedes says nothing is wrong, but it spoils the driving experience. Do you know the cause? EL

A I suspect the problem is due to wheel and tyre size (which you do not state). Wide, low-profile tyres at high pressures are a lot noisier than narrow, high-profile tyres running at lower pressures.

French correction

Q The Telegraph sometimes features a large advertisement for breathalysers that must be carried in France “by law”. I thought I had read previously that the French had suspended this law. Am I right? GW

A The penalty for non-compliance used to be an €11 on-the-spot fine, but in January 2013 this was postponed indefinitely. The AA concludes: “Theoretically you are still required to carry a self-test breathalyser when driving in France but there is no current legislation demanding a fine for non-compliance.” Since Brexit, however, the French police don’t seem as friendly to Brits.

Crimewatch

Q While parked outside my house, my car was hit by a third party. I witnessed the incident, took the culprit’s details and the whole thing was recorded by both my CCTV and that of my neighbour. The guilty party drove off and failed to report the incident. The police are not taking any action and I have had many problems obtaining a sensible insurance settlement. I was told the car was a write-off (which it isn’t), that I could have about half what it’s worth and that somebody would come to take it away, so I’ve had to move it to make sure that doesn’t happen. KC

A If what you say is true and can be backed up by video evidence, the driver of the runaway car has committed a series of offences under Section 170 of the Road Traffic Act 1988. If the police refuse to act after giving you a crime number, write to the chief constable (with a copy to your MP) to ask why his force is not upholding the law. Having obtained a crime number, you then get a county court order demanding the DVLA reveals to you the name and address of the other car’s registered keeper. Once you have that you can pursue them and their insurer (assuming they were insured). No one can take your car away from you and summarily write it off without your previous signed agreement, on the basis of you receiving the full market value prior to the damage without any withholdings. You will have an excess on your policy, but you can insist on full payment.

Slag heaps

Q I am thinking of changing my VW Tiguan 1.4 petrol manual for a new automatic Tiguan. It was great on a test drive, but you are constantly slagging off VW’s automatic DSG. If they are so unreliable, how come VW is still selling them? FB

A I’m not slagging them off. I am simply relaying complaints from readers whose seven-speed dry-clutch DSGs have failed. But VW is now quietly switching over to wet-clutch DSGs that require fresh fluid every three years and these should be more durable.

Quirk, quirk, slow

Q I had a recurring problem with my 2008 Ford Galaxy’s engine management system, which would put the car in limp-home mode (usually on motorways). Eventually the Ford garage fixed what seemed to a software issue, but last week it happened again. Any ideas? IC

A It’s a quirk of the Ford engine management system – mysterious faults lead them to lose power and revert to limp-home mode. It might be caused by an intercooler pipe weld fault leading to a crack in the pipe. It could also be due to moisture or corrosion in multi-pin ECU connecting blocks, or else a blocked diesel particulate filter. If the car has the PSA Eolys DPF regeneration system, there could be a problem with that.

Pipe cleaner

Q I use my Skoda Superb 2.0 TDI 170 to tow a small caravan. It does this well but I notice that the oil temperature increases considerably. I keep it topped up with fresh oil. Should I be concerned? AM

A That is inevitable with a turbocharged diesel engine. You might need additional oil cooling, but I think the turbo bearing oil feed and return pipes are partially blocked with carbon and the oil-cooled turbo is overheating. It’s good practice to replace these anyway and remember that, after towing, you must always idle the engine for at least two minutes before switching off, to keep oil flowing through the hot turbo bearing while it cools down.

Bank, robbery

Q I recently parked in Reading but then realised I needed to get some cash. I went to a bank and on my return found a notice imposing a parking charge of £100 because I was observed “leaving the car park”. This seems nonsensical. MP

A It is, but you have to pay because you breached the terms of the parking contract. This type of penalty was upheld by the Supreme Court in November 2015. There’s no way out. We all have to live our lives on the understanding that reasonable allowances are no longer available.

The look of love

Q I have £5,000 available to buy a used Fiat 500. Which is my best option? DS

A A 2010 model should have the improved, more comfortable rear suspension developed by Ford for the 500-based Ka (identifiable by an additional bar across the twist-beam rear axle). Model for model, Kas are about £1,500 cheaper than 500s but just don't have the look. A 500 TwinAir is more fun to drive than a 1.2, but you’d find it harder to get a genuine 50mpg.

Golf coarse

Q I have a 66,000-mile VW Golf 1.4 TSI S 122PS. When I lift my foot off accelerator I hear a strange noise. On depressing the clutch pedal, it goes. It’s most audible at about 30mph. Can you explain? Oil consumption seems quite high, too. Is this normal? AG

A I'd get the noise checked. VW had a bit of trouble with its transmission casings. You should not need any oil between services so long as you change every 12 months or 10,000 miles, whichever comes first. You might use a bit, but should not need to top up.

Luxury of choice

Q I'm in the market for a classic soft-top sports car. Important criteria are good engineering, performance and reliability. My budget is about £50,000, but I’m happy to spend much less. CPG

A The Porsche 911 is an obvious option – either an air-cooled 993 if you can find one or a water-cooled 997/991 (not a 996, the 911 no one wants). I thought seriously about a BMW Z3 3.2M roadster a few months ago, but worried about the cost of repairs exceeding the value of the car. A BMW Z3 2.8 would be much cheaper, at £5000-£10,000. You'd get an extremely rare Alfa Romeo SZ for about £40,000. I wouldn't go for a Mercedes SL. The good ones from 1959-1961 are £1,000,000. And everybody is wild about R113 Pagodas that aren't actually any good to drive. R107s rust badly in the sills/bulkhead and R129s are too electronically complex. 

Irate of inflation

Q I own an 18-month-old Ford Focus and have just bought a set of new Bridgestone 205/55/16 tyres. The garage inflated them to 37psi but the handbook suggests 31psi. I used an old pen-type tyre gauge to check when I got home and it occurred to me that these may no longer be considered accurate. MB

A Your pen gauge might be out, but 37psi is ridiculous and pressures are important – especially in winter. Get a new barrel-type gauge (nothing digital) and set them at 31psi when cold (first thing in the morning).

Hard times

Q To improve the ride on our 2016 Nissan Qashqai, I followed the dogma and changed from 19- to 17-inch wheels with 215/60 R17 tyres. Sadly, it has made little appreciable difference. What is the answer? I am hoping for some improvement when I fit Michelin CrossClimates before the onset of winter.  PS

A I'd guess that you are running the pressures too high, so lowering them will probably restore tyre compliance and solve your problem. That will be even more important with CrossClimates (best with morning pressures of 30-31psi).

Box of problems

Q I took my nine-year- old Mini Cooper to a garage specialising in automatic gearboxes, as it sounded a bit rough. I’m told it needs a new gearbox that will cost more than £3,000. It only has 46,000 miles on the clock and has not been driven hard. Should it have failed so soon? AF

A I guess it’s a Mk1 R50 with the CVT auto. Electromagnetic clutch failures are common but that would not mean a whole new gearbox. I’ve had no reports of torque converter auto failures on the later R56.

Late notice

Q My wife's BMW X1 is two years old but has done only 6,000 miles. BMW is insisting that it should now have an oil change. Is this really necessary? VE

A Yes. It needs an oil and filter change annually or every 10,000 miles, whichever comes first, whatever BMW or anyone else tells you. You are already 12 months late.

Tall order

Q I am in my early 60s, 6ft 3in tall and would like to buy a convertible sports car. I have £5,000 to spend on a Mazda MX-5, Audi TT or similar. Which of these would you suggest?  GB

A You might not fit in an MX-5 because the seats do not recline far enough. The larger Audi TT Roadster is more likely to accommodate you – and you should be able to get an early Mk2 (from 2006) within your budget. Any convertible will usually be cheaper in October and November, when demand traditionally tails off.

Large feat

Q I want to swap my 2004 Mercedes W220 S500 from Dunlop tyres to Michelins suitable for summer and winter conditions in the UK. I do not want to change the alloy wheels. I would prefer to have both front and rear Michelins from the same range, but this does not seem possible due to availability and different wheel sizes. WJ

A Because your car has different-width 18in rims, you have to stick to those tyre sizes and Michelin does not make suitable Cross Climates. Nokian does not do Weatherproofs in suitable sizes, either. This car could also be fitted with 17in wheels and 225/55 tyres all round or 16in rims with 225/60 rubber. You can get Michelin Cross Climates in both those sizes. I’d go for the 17s.

Pull together

Q I contacted the Department for Transport after seeing a car’s trailer break up, which could have caused serious injury – or worse. Shouldn’t trailers and caravans have MoTs, to ensure greater road safety? MG

A I couldn’t agree more. The trouble will be finding a minister with time to push any changes through now they’ve got much bigger issues on their plate. 

Return to vendor

Q My niece purchased a 2006/56 Proton, but wasn’t given the manual or the service history. Reverse and first gears are really hard to engage and a Green Flag mechanic said it was the clutch. If this is the case do you think it will be covered under the three-month warranty? She has had the car for only three weeks and has driven very little distance in that time. AC

A If she purchased it from a dealer three weeks ago she has 30 days from date of sale to reject it entirely and that is what she should attempt to do. It's a new ruling under The Consumer Rights Act 2015.

Protection racket?

Q We are thinking of buying a Nissan Qashqai with pearlescent white paint and cloth seats. The salesman advised a £299 paint and fabric protection treatment, because pearlescent paint is vulnerable to fading and bird lime. Is it worth it? AB

A That isn’t too greedy (they can ask as much as £500). It will be negotiable because it will cost him less than £100 and the rest is commission.

Highway tsar

Q When I was involved in highway engineering, the original idea was for speed humps to be about four metres long and 100mm high – a design that allows vehicles to drive up to the speed limit without causing discomfort or suspension damage. Is the blight of current humps due to ignorance, laziness, stupidity or a perceived sense that authorities must do something as long as it’s low-cost? PM

A Readers continue to destroy the inner shoulders of their tyres on the chamfered edges of humps by straddling them to minimise the shock. The insanity of blister humps is that, by straddling them, drivers have no need to reduce their speed but inflict damage to their tyres that could result in a high-speed blowout. So the humps serve no purpose, except to make money for contractors and to cause potentially serious damage.

Reservoir dogged

Q I have a 2008 Mercedes E220 CDI Avantgarde auto estate. The screen washer fluid constantly needs topping up, even when it has hardly been used. I cannot see any leaks, but I have noticed a trail of fluid on the drive when I reverse out. Do you have any ideas? RD

A You’ve obviously got a leak, most probably from the pump seal. Most of these are press-fitted into the side of the reservoir and slight pressure can pop them out. To access it you might have to remove a front wheel and the wheel arch protector. If you don’t like grubbing around under cars, it’s a garage job.

Call of the wild

Q If I stop in a lay-by, apply the handbrake, remove the ignition key and then use a mobile phone, am I breaking the law because I am still behind the wheel? DW

A You are not breaking the law if you park legally and switch off the engine to take or make a call.

Spokes person

Q I would like a BMW 125i or 328i, due to them being lighter, more agile and thriftier than a six-cylinder M135i or 335i. Which should I consider in terms of practicality? I don’t often have rear passengers but extra room is always nice for carrying a bicycle. DS

A The 1-series is much smaller. There’s a better chance of getting a bicycle inside a 3-series with the optional folding rear seats, but clearly not all used models have them. Look at the 328i GT hatchback.

Chill street blues

Q The compressor for the air-conditioning of my Audi RS4 needs replacing. The cost of £900 will be reduced by a payment from Audi, but the labour will cost £2,000. Can that be right? CB

A It is incomprehensible that an air-con compressor could cost £2,000 to fit. It may even be only a failure of its electromagnetic clutch, which should be a £150 fix. See an aircon specialist rather than an Audi dealer.

C sore

Q We bought a 2013 Ford C-Max 1.6 TDI in the hope it might be more economical than our previous car. My wife drives 25 miles on fast roads, then four shorter journeys. The best we get is 41.5mpg. Do you think there is a problem? JG

A That’s not very good. I averaged 49mpg over 12,000 miles in a slightly larger Mazda5 with the same engine, and 55mpg in a 2008 Focus with the earlier 16v 1.6 TDI. A switch to top-quality fuel should improve it by 3-4mpg. This won’t help if the car hasn’t had a service and oil change for some time.

Small talk

Q I read your column every week and do not recall a single mention of the car I own, a Citroën C1 automatic. Is this simply because you never receive complaints?  PH

A I rarely receive complaints about the C1. I’m not keen on the SensoDrive automated manual transmission, which can give trouble, but there’s nothing wrong with the car as cheap, basic transportation.

Level head

Q My son has taken his 2001 BMW X5 4.4 automatic off the road for the winter. Should he leave the handbrake on? What else will keep it in good order? JC

A Parking brake off. Leave it in P, chock the wheels and overinflate the tyres. The battery will go flat unless it’s connected to a conditioning float charger. Make sure it has a statutory off-road notification (Sorn).

Opposite attraction

Q I am buying a BMW X1. We do about 9,000 miles a year and the dealer says the 2.0-litre diesel engine is the obvious choice because “people expect SUVs to have diesel engines” so it will be better come resale time. Is this sound advice? MW

A The dealer is right today, but that might not be the case if you want to sell the car circa 2019. Go for a petrol model.

Rough runner

Q I have an eight-year-old Audi A3 1.8 auto that has started to shudder fairly violently between 55 and 70-mph. My Audi garage first thought it might be something to do with the tyres, but has ruled that out and hasn’t come up with any other explanation. HB

A This will have the more reliable six-speed wet-clutch DSG. As long as it has had its regular fluid and filter change (every three years), I'm not going to jump in and blame the DSG straight away. Try swapping the front tyres to the rears, same side. If that doesn't fix it, check the front suspension bushes and the driveshafts. Next, it might be the clutch pack, dual mass flywheel or perhaps the mechatronics operating system of the DSG itself. You mention "my Audi garage". Is this a dealer, a VW Group specialist or an ordinary garage that looks after a few Audis and might not know about the need for regular transmission fluid changes?

Volume turned Up

Q I bought a 2013 VW Up with 20,000 miles, but the gears are very noisy and there is a clicking sound when I change up. The dealer eventually replaced the clutch (or at least told me he did), but the sounds rapidly reappeared. Is this a cause for concern or an irritating quirk? GT

A A noisy manual gearbox is a known issue on Ups, Seat Miis and Skoda Citigos. You could try adding some STP, Wynn’s or a similar transmission oil additive.

Filter tip

Q I would like a smallish diesel to commute to work. I have been looking at Ford Focus models from about 2009 (60,000 miles, about £3,750). Would this be a good choice? SJ

A No. There tends to be lots of trouble with the 1.6 TDCI at this age and mileage. Go for a Kia Cee'd or Hyundai i30 1.6 CRDI – they did not have diesel particulate filters (DPFs) fitted until mid-2010.

Slippery customer

Q I have a 2005 Chrysler Voyager automatic and an engine warning light has come on. Sometimes when setting off it seems as though the clutch is slipping before I move forward. When engaging reverse it needs plenty of revs. What is wrong? JH

A Check the transmission fluid. What colour is it? If it's pink, it's fine. If it's black and smells burned, it isn't. Get it to a member of FATE: www.fedauto.co.uk.

Gearbox guarantee?

Q In July my 2010 Renault Modus 1.5 diesel automatic suffered a gearbox failure at 59,000 miles. The fault was diagnosed as a breakage of the hydraulic piston controlling gearchanges. A friend has told me that under EU regulations, components other than brakes, clutch and lights should be guaranteed for at least 100,000 miles. The car has been regularly serviced (but not by Renault). Does such a regulation exist and, if so, how should I submit a claim? PM

A This is a robotised manual gearbox, not an automatic, and there is no such EU regulation. The various UK Sale of Goods Acts make a general assumption that the "reasonable" life expectancy of a motor vehicle is six years.

Cheap & cheerful

Q My wife has a VW Polo 1.2 60 Match, which she “bought” on a three-year contract that soon comes to an end. We are in the market for a replacement, although not necessarily another VW. Her annual mileage is less than 3,000 and she only uses it for short runs, so a diesel is out of the question. PB

A Fiat 500s are quite tall and have very comfortable seats – and the base TwinAir on the right tyres is zero-rated for VED – but they are quite expensive. Something more basic might be adequate.

Losing streak

Q I can’t get rid of wiper-blade streaks across my windscreen. I’ve tried all manner of screen cleaners and new wiper blades, but still they appear. I noticed that a lot of the streaks occur where I have had windscreen chips fixed. Is that a possible cause? DB

A Yes, because the repairs stand very slightly proud of the screen and create tiny tears in the wiper blades. That's your problem.

Pedigree Cat

Q I want to replace my 2001 Jaguar X-type, which has done only 22,000 miles and is in excellent condition. How should I sell it? I will replace it with a new Mercedes and have several low-price offers through an on-line website. Are there any problems buying this way? GS

A The low mileage might make the X-type interesting to someone, depending on its engine. It’s not really classic auction material, so it might be worth trying eBay. There’s no reason not to buy online via drivethedeal, carwow or carfile. Do not buy a car that won’t immediately be registered to you, whether it was pre-registered or not.

An inspector calls

Q Could you recommend a company that can fully check used cars prior to purchase? And how can I test clutch efficiency on a car at home? RR

A Try RAC, ADAC or Scotia Vehicle Inspections. If the clutch slips while driving uphill in a relatively high gear, then it is on the way out.

Call of the wild

Q If I stop in a lay-by, apply the handbrake, remove the ignition key and then use a mobile phone, am I breaking the law because I am still behind the wheel? DW

A You are not breaking the law if you park legally and shut off the engine to take or make a call.

Losing streak

Q I can’t remove wiper-blade streaks on my windscreen. A lot of the streaks are where I have had screen chips fixed, could they be the cause? DB

A Yes, because the repairs stand very slightly proud of the screen and create tiny tears in the wiper blades.

Protection racket?

Q We are thinking of buying a Nissan Qashqai with pearlescent white paint and cloth fabric seats. The salesman has recommended a paint and fabric protection treatment at £299. He said that the pearlescent paint was more vulnerable to fading and bird droppings. Is it worth it? AB

A That isn't too greedy (they can ask as much as £500). It will be negotiable because it will cost him less than £100 and the rest is commission.

Reservoir dogged

Q I have a 2008 Mercedes E220 CDI Avantgarde auto estate. The windscreen washer fluid is in constant need of topping up, even when it has hardly been used. I cannot see any leaks at the time of refilling it, but I have noticed a trail of fluid on the drive whenever I reverse out first thing in the morning. Any ideas? RD

You've obviously got a leak, most probably from the pump seal. Most of these are press-fitted into the side of the reservoir base. Pressure can pop them out slightly. To access it you might have to take a wheel off and then remove the wheel arch protector. If you don't like grubbing around under cars, it's a garage job.

C sore

Q We recently purchased a 2013 Ford C-Max 1.6 TDI in the hope that it might be more economical than our previous car. My wife drives 25 miles on fast roads and a motorway to her base, then completes about four shorter journeys as part of her work before the return home. She is the only occupant and the car is lightly loaded, yet it returns only 41.5 mpg. We were hoping for at least 45mpg. JG

A That’s not very good. I averaged 49mpg over 12,000 miles in a slightly bigger Mazda5 with the same engine, and 55mpg in a 2008 Focus with the earlier 16v 1.6 TDI. Switching to Shell V-Power should improve it by 3-4mpg. as long as you make use of the increased torque at low revs to change up earlier. Of course, it won’t help if the car hasn't had a service and oil change for some time.

Fairly liquid

Q I can hear fuel sloshing beneath the front seats of my 2013 Vauxhall Astra 1.6 estate. Is it safe? JB

A It will be water, because the drains in the lower door are blocked with protective wax. Poke them with a wooden skewer (to avoid damaging the paint).

Link tin

Q I bought a VW Golf 1.4 TSI in 2010. It has done 33,000 miles, so should I replace the cam chain soon? JP

A VW cam chain problems were caused by the varying quality of manufacture due to cost-cutting. It’s a lottery. The fact that yours has reached 33,000 miles should mean it will be fine as long as you change the oil and filter at least every 10,000 miles/12 months, whichever comes first.

Meter made

Q You often suggest fitting smaller diameter wheels to improve ride quality. As the speedometer and odometer work on wheel revolutions, will a change in rim size not  affect their readings? SW

A No. The aim of switching to smaller wheels is to use deeper-profile tyres and put more tyre between the rims and the road. The circumference of the tyre stays almost the same.

Higher or lower

Q We have a 2002 Renault Laguna 2.2 diesel and a 1988 Jaguar XJS 3.6 auto. We would like to exchange both for a petrol estate with Laguna-like towing ability. What would you suggest? ST

A The Laguna might be worth no more than £500. The XJS could be worth up to £5,000 in top condition. It’s difficult to suggest a replacement estate when the exchange value might be anything from £1,000 to £5,500. Maybe a Volvo 940 estate at the lower end or a Land Rover Freelander at the upper end.

Olympic meddle

Q I have owned a 2012 Kia Rio from new and it has done only 12,400 miles, but I am told that the clutch needs replacing and will not be covered by the seven-year warranty. I have been driving for more than 40 years, but this is the first time I have needed a clutch replacement. Do I have a claim on the warranty, or is it correct that I will have to pay £450? AH

A It is not covered by the warranty because it is a wear-and-tear component. Kia and Hyundai are more generous than most in warranting clutches for two years (the norm is six months).

Joy of Sachs

Q My Peugeot 207 CC has done nearly 70,000 miles and might require a new clutch. My Peugeot garage has suggested either genuine Peugeot parts or Peugeot “patterned” parts, should a replacement be required. What's the difference, apart from £100 in price? Which would you advise? KH

A Patterned parts are copies that are usually inferior, but that’s not always the case. Choose correctly and a clutch might actually be made by the same supplier in both cases. Sachs is a reliable manufacturer.

Three-pointed stir

Q My Mercedes GLA 250, which I bought new last March, developed a hollow resonating noise on some road surfaces. Mercedes says nothing is wrong, but it spoils the driving experience. Do you know the cause? EL

A I suspect the problem is due to wheel and tyre size (which you do not state). Wide, low-profile tyres at high pressures are a lot noisier than narrow, high-profile tyres running at lower pressures.

Swede dreams

Q I need to replace my 90,000-mile 2006 Saab 9-5 1.9 TiD. Would a Volvo be a good alternative? AM

A The best option is a Mazda6 Skyactiv D, and most reliable would be a Kia Optima or Hyundai i40 1.7 CRDI. Volvo’s new 2.0-litre diesel and petrol engines appear trouble-free so far – and diesels give about 50mpg.

Start of the matter

Q My wife’s 1988 Mercedes coupé refused to start. My garage says it’s a fuel-injection problem. It is trying to source a used injection unit, but nothing has happened for six weeks. How can we get it fixed quickly? JK

A That will be a W124-series car, so the man to talk to is Nicholas Froome at w124.co.uk.

Opposite attraction

Q I am buying a BMW X1. We do about 9,000 miles a year and the dealer says the 2.0 diesel is the obvious choice because “people expect SUVs to have diesel engines” so it will be better come resale time. Is this sound advice? MW

A The dealer is right today, but that might not be the case if you want to sell the car circa 2019. Go for a petrol model.

Loud pedal

Q My one-year-old Skoda Fabia 1.2 TSI has done 9,000 miles. While it’s fine in most respects, the brakes are quite noisy, especially for the first few miles. Is this a design fault? GL

A All iron-alloy brake discs rust. The noise is caused by the pads clearing overnight surface rust from the discs. Most of the braking effort of a car is at the front, so if you don't use the brakes much the rear discs won't be cleared of surface rust.

Wishing well

Q My Vauxhall Viva has a tyre repair kit instead of a spare wheel. However, the boot has a well that would appear to be for a spare. What should I do? DL

A Remove one of the wheels and see if it fits the well in the boot. If it does, get a wheel and tyre of the same size, then try to find a way to secure it in the wheel well.

Feeling the pressure

Q I replaced my three-year- old Honda Jazz with the latest model, which has a tyre deflation warning system. It is fine where I live on the Isle of Man, but on motorways the warning is activated, even though the tyre pressures are fine. Can you say why this occurs? JE

A On a motorway run the tyres heat up, increasing the pressure by as much as 4psi. The answer is to lower the cold pressures to 30psi all round, so the alert won’t be activated when they heat up. 

Firm favourite

Q I might purchase my company car, a 2011 VW Passat 1.4 TSI estate. It has 114,000 trouble-free miles, having been serviced every 18,000 miles. Are there any areas of concern? GB

A If it has reached that mileage without trouble, it must have a decent timing chain (whether you got a good one or a bad one was a lottery). In my view, 18,000-mile services are not frequent enough, so there will be some engine wear due to not changing the oil every 10,000 miles.

Emissions impossible?

QI had a dealer software emissions upgrade on my 2011 VW Jetta 2.0 TDI 140 and I am pleased to report that I have not noticed any reduction in economy or performance. Might the car’s economy deteriorate in the colder months? JB

A Previously reported problems seem confined to Tiguan 2.0 TDIs. Cars are generally less economical in winter due to greater use of electrical equipment.

Weird science

Q My Porsche Macan’s instrument panel is weird verging on useless. It has a huge rev counter, but the car is automatic so why do I need it? A panel displays tyre temperatures and other useless information, but not the time if the Bluetooth phone is in use. I won’t even mention the complex settings menu. RS

A You bought a Porsche, not a family hatchback. The rev counter helps tell you when to change gear with the paddles. Doesn’t the time show in the satnav screen?

Lagging behind

Q I bought a 17,000-mile 2013 Citroën Picasso with an automatic gearbox. The warranty has expired and it has developed a lull when changing gear. Is this normal? Also, pigeon droppings have marred some of the bodywork. Does Citroën have a guarantee on paintwork? RW

A Your car’s EGS gearbox is a robotised manual, not an automatic, and what you describe is normal. You can reduce the effect by lifting off the throttle during paddle-operated upchanges. Paint warranties are only ever for three years. One reader tells us a wet teabag can remove bird lime, but I don’t drink tea and haven’t tried it.

Stag do

Q I see that new VED rates apply from April 2017 and you quoted pre-1976 cars as being zero-rated. My Triumph Stag was built on December 29 1976 and I was under the impression that this would be tax-exempt from April 2017.  Am I correct? And does the year of manufacture thus roll forward each year? GP

A Basically, yes – unless Philip Hammond changes the rules. But, as you write, it won’t actually become exempt until the DVLA receives an official instruction from the Treasury.

Bench marque

Q What are your thoughts on a used VW Caddy Maxi Life, possibly with a 2.0-litre diesel engine? NF

A There’s plenty of room and a decent ride. But, for use as a family car, just remember that the seat removal system is not as versatile as some rivals’.Fear is the key

Service update

Q I bought a Mini Cooper and the service indicator suggests no work is needed for 20,000 miles. Should I be concerned about such a long period without maintenance? SF

A Your instincts could save your car. My standard advice for any vehicle is to have the oil and filter changed at least annually or every 10,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Age concern

Q I need to replace my much-loved Mazda6 TS, which is beginning to show its age. I need a five-door automatic with excellent acceleration and am considering the Mazda3, Ford Focus, a Kia or a Hyundai. What would you recommend? AG

A If considering a Mazda3, wait until the end of the year because it is about to get new features. You might prefer something a bit more upright, such as the Suzuki Vitara S BoosterJet auto. A Kia Sportage 1.6T-GDI GT DCT is also very good, but a bit more expensive. Look at the Mazda CX3 2.0 Skyactiv automatic, too.

Infiniti and beyond

Q I would like to replace my Infiniti EX30D with either a Porsche Macan, Jaguar F-Pace or BMW X3/X5. I travel about 12,000 miles a year, with very few short journeys, so which of these four would you recommend?  JG

A The Macan looks the best and the turbo version is very quick. The F-Pace combines good looks with space for five and entertaining handling. A new BMW X3 can’t be far away. The X5 is available with a variety of engines and up to seven seats, and it is the only one on your list that is available as a petrol hybrid.

Bristle rover

Q What is the best alloy-wheel cleaning brush? I do not have a pressure washer. MR

A I find domestic stiff-bristle hand carpet brushes best and use old toothbrushes for the small, fiddly bits. Use normal car shampoo. Avoid any kind of acidic treatment. Once wheels are completely clean, Autoglym advises waxing them to help stop brake dust sticking. Painted alloys are always a lot easier to deal with and more robust than polished and lacquered alloys.

Earth worm

Q I have a new Renault Mégane with Renault R-Link and TomTom navigation systems. The navigation system exhibits an intermittent fault that causes loss of information for up to two hours at a time, usually in hot weather. The dealer refuses to carry out a proper fault-finding exercise on the grounds that “Renault would not authorise warranty payment.” Do I need a car electronics specialist? DF

AIt’s probably a dried-out earth somewhere. But, first of all, that is not grounds for a dealer to wriggle away from its responsibilities. The dealer is directly liable for the fault and has to fix it or pay for it to be fixed. If it can’t, it has to pay a local specialist.

Zoe ball

Q We want to replace our 2012 Mercedes C-class estate with a small estate or hatchback, petrol or electric. Any ideas? CH

A There are some very good leasing/PCP deals available on the Renault Zoe, which is a nice little electric car. Or, to be sure of a range of more than 100 miles, look at the Kia Niro hybrid.  

Knots forester

Q A friend bought a new Subaru Forester in January and the diesel particulate filter warning light has started flashing. The dealer said it might need an oil change. What do you think? The other worry is an intermittent gear selection problem but the dealer cannot find a fault. Can you help? PD

A The oil change makes a lot of sense. There may be a problem with the clutch slave cylinder or it might simply be moisture or air in the hydraulics so get the system bled.

One cur-full owner

Q I have £10,000 to spend to replace my unloved but reliable Skoda Fabia. I need a petrol engine as I do a lot of short journeys, and a big boot for two dogs. I’d like something a bit more fun, too. What would you suggest? DB

A You need a Skoda Fabia or Seat Ibiza estate. Both are available with 1.2-litre turbo engines. Also consider a brand-new Dacia Logan MCV. 

Bellow par

Q I put my 70,000-mile 2012 BMW 520 Touring M-Sport in for an MoT with the garage that sold it to me. The report said a rear suspension air bellow had deteriorated and needed replacing, at a cost of£600. Should this have failed in the 15,000 miles since I bought the car, or could I ask the garage to contribute? IC

A The bellow is made of  rubber and is therefore bound to have a limited life – but how limited is unpredictable. There will be a lot more of this as air suspension becomes increasingly common, although prices for replacements are likely to fall as a consequence.

Hot and bothered

Q My 2005 VW Golf MkV automatic has developed  gearbox problems. It’s fine when the engine is cold, but the gearbox starts to misbehave when it’s hot. Do you know of a fix? KZ

A This will be a DSG ’box, but fortunately the more reliable six-speed wet-clutch version. It requires routine maintenance of a fluid and filter change every three years. It this hasn’t been done, the problems you describe will arise.

Camera obscurer

QI own a Lexus IS 300h but my dealer will not fit my dash-mounted camera because it is not a Lexus accessory. The supplier says it cannot fit it as the car’s fusebox is sealed. can you suggest something? JG

A Plug the camera into the accessories socket in the centre console, being careful to route the cable around the edge of the screen so it doesn’t interfere with vision.

Do as you’re tolled

Q I bought a Liber-t tag to use the Télépéage lanes on French autoroutes. The instructions say I must stick it on the mottled area of the screen, but my 2016 Mercedes-Benz E220 AMG has a sensor there. Will the device work elsewhere? GP

A Get your passenger to hold it over the mottled area and see if it activates the Télépéage barrier. Having used a lot of these, I don’t think you’ll have a problem – and you’ll save a huge amount of time. They’re also very useful if you’re solo in a right-hand drive car. 

Wife and strays

Q I thought a speeding summons had to be delivered to the recipient within 14 days of the alleged offence. In my wife’s case it was not, as it had gone to our previous home. Both she and I had informed the DVLA of our change of address, so does she have a case? HM

A Probably not. You told the DVLA of your address change for licensing purposes but did you also amend the info for your car’s V5C registration document? If not, you were theoretically committing an offence. 

He who hesitates…

Q I am thinking of buying a 2012 Ford Focus 1.6 auto with 25,000 miles. The dealer is independent and offers a three-month warranty. Ford has now extended the gearbox warranty to five years, but will the car I’m looking at be covered? EW

A Use the registration number to check with Ford Customer Services. If any services have been missed, it won’t be covered anyway. Make sure there is no hesitation  when pulling away from a standstill. The dealer is legally responsible for six months for any fault that could have been present or developing on the date of sale.   

Flat earth?

Q My 18-month-old Hyundai has had a fault since new. Occasionally, it won’t restart; there is no sound of the starter motor or any other sign of life. What might it be? JL

A The first thing to check is the earth lead from the battery to the car body. If that’s loose it can leave the car completely devoid of electrical power.

Comfort zone

Q We love our 2009 Honda Accord EX but back problems make it hard for my wife to get in and out. We are thinking of buying an HR-V or Mazda CX-3 to replace it. Would the HR-V be comfortable on long motorway journeys? MK

A The HR-V offers easy access, but the 1.5i VTEC petrol engine lacks power. The petrol auto is better than the manual. The 1.6 diesel is good but manual only. The CX-3 is smaller, but has a better choice of engines and a superior torque converter auto gearbox. The cheap choice is a Dacia Duster Laureate 1.2, from £12,895.

Troubled water

Q The central locking system of my 2007 Skoda Superb is causing problems. On numerous occasions the locks don’t open or close. RK

A It’s most likely to be moisture getting into the locking/windows ECU inside the driver’s door.

Back problem

Q Our new Ford Fiesta  jumps out of reverse gear and the dealer can’t find a fault. What can we do? RT

A Reject the car. It’s not supposed to jump out of reverse, so is faulty even though the dealer can’t find anything amiss.

Ramp it up

Q I need a car that can be adapted to take a wheelchair. I want a car with some character and standards of comfort to match my current Volvo S40. Any ideas? GW

A Do you mean a car that can take a folded wheelchair, one into which a wheelchair can be driven up a ramp, or one that can be driven from a wheelchair? Whichever the answer, brotherwood.com would be a good place to start for advice.

Flush with success?

Q My 2007 Honda CR-V 2.2 CTDI makes a graunching noise on full lock. A mechanic thought it might be something to do with the 4WD system. Can you suggest a cure? CT

A The oil in the rear differential clutch is known to degrade before renewal is  recommended and the symptoms are a moaning/groaning noise when manoeuvring on full lock. This is easily misdiagnosed as a steering rack problem, which may lead to unnecessary repairs. The solution is to replace the oil with the latest-spec Honda fluid, Dual Pump 2. Dealers may describe this as a “diff flush”.

Max pain?

Q I intend to replace my old Ford C-Max 1.6 petrol with a new one. I believe that the new Ecoboost engines have turbos and dual mass flywheels. Any concerns? MM

A The 1.0- and 1.5-litre Ecoboost turbos don’t seem to be problematic unless the engine is switched off when very hot. The dual mass flywheels have not been an issue, but faulty clutch slave cylinders were a big problem prior to the “Aston Martin grille” facelift. I haven’t heard of any since. Love Hertz Q My wife and I are finding it is increasingly difficult to hire cars in the UK due to our advancing age. Any suggestions? PL

Stop, start, stop

Q In early June I purchased a 2008 Ford Mondeo 1.8 TDCi. It recently suffered an apparent engine failure while travelling at 60‑70mph. Everything stopped, so I returned it to the dealer but no fault was found. I was asked to take the car away and use it, as they were confident there was little chance it would happen again. Which, of course, it has. ED

A The usual reason for this is failure of a contact inside one of the multipin connector blocks between the ECU and the fuel system. Separating them and replugging a few times might ensure a better contact. Dry any damp with a hairdryer, then seal the connecting block once reconnected and working.

Fastest lapse

Q I sold my car in 2011, having had a full no‑claims discount on my insurance. I now wish to buy a car again, but have been told my no-claims discount has lapsed. Are there any companies that would take it into account? PP

A You usually retain a no‑claims discount for two years, but deals can always be done. You need a broker or a direct insurer, not an insurance comparison site. 

Penny far thing

QMy Toyota Previa has 148,000 miles on the clock. I use only Shell petrol, as I get better mileage than I do with supermarket fuel. Is it worth paying a little extra for Shell V-Power?  AG

A In my opinion, yes. It will keep the fuel system clean and avoid the sort of problems you sometimes get with an older car. 

Straddle sore

Q I just had the first annual service of my Jaguar 3.0d R Sport, at 8,926 miles, and the technician’s report mentioned excess wear to the inner shoulders of the front tyres. Given the car’s mileage and the fact that, as an ex-motorcyclist, I am fastidious about tyre pressures and condition, I was extremely concerned. MM

A Have you been straddling speed cushions? That’s how most drivers lessen their impact, but it does cause excess wear. For 20 years I’ve been urging drivers to traverse speed cushions with one wheel over the top and one on the flat. 

Van ordinaire

Q I need a small van with a high seat and good fuel economy. I want to put a bed in the back so that I can go camping when I feel like it. I thought the Citroën Berlingo was the answer, but the seat is too low down. I am 79. EH

A I think your best bet is probably a Nissan NV200 1.5 diesel. That’s the smallest tall van I know and they are available with rear side windows.

Binding contract

QA year ago my brilliant Fiat Panda 4x4’s brakes started making a very loud noise, but only when reversing. The system was overhauled and this seemed to solve the problem, but it has started again. It stopped doing it when I took the car to the dealer, then resumed on the way home… PH

A I’ve heard of this before on the previous Panda 4x4. This was eventually diagnosed as binding rear brakes and the calipers were replaced under warranty.

Park Ranger

Q I bought a used Ford Ranger for £17,500 but after several problems I requested my money back. The dealer offered to refund a lot less, saying that VAT is non-refundable. Ford Customer Services has washed its hands of the affair, saying it’s a VAT issue. What can I do? AP

APresumably you are not registered for VAT? If you are and you buy a VAT-qualifying vehicle for commercial use, you pay the VAT via the dealer then reclaim the input tax. If you later sell the vehicle, you add 20 per cent VAT to the price and repay that to HMRC. However, in the case of a sub-standard vehicle returned by a non-VAT registered buyer, you should get the price you paid – possibly minus a small amount for your use of the vehicle.

Arts counsel

Q I want to replace my Audi A3 1.9 diesel with a petrol or eco model. I no longer need to drive long journeys, but would like a car with a reasonably sized boot. I am an exhibiting artist and need to store and transport paintings. What would you suggest? RH

A What might work quite well is an appropriately named Citroën C3 Picasso with the 1.2 Puretech 110 engine. It’s physically quite small but tall and very spacious and returns 50mpg.

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