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Honest John's car advice – your motoring questions answered

Music on the move: why do so few modern cars have a CD player? - Claire Lim
Music on the move: why do so few modern cars have a CD player? - Claire Lim

If your car has developed a fault, turn to Honest John by emailing honestadvice@telegraph.co.uk

Digital evolution

My Jaguar 2.2 X-type is now nine years old. I went to look at a newer Jaguar, which I liked apart from the absence of a CD player. I love my music while driving and, although there is a socket for an iPod, I find not having a CD player very unsatisfactory. Are all cars now being sold without CD players? PS

Mostly, yes, because the CD is old tech and has gone the way of compact cassettes. It’s not too difficult to load all of your favourites onto a smartphone, an iPod or even a USB stick and use that instead.

We are the robots

My much-loved 20-year-old Fiat Coupé is showing signs of age and will probably need to be replaced. I've read good reports about the Skoda Citigo and Toyota Aygo, but can't find much information on the performance of the automatic versions. I'd prefer to buy a used car and my annual mileage is about 4,000, mainly urban. I'd consider other makes. LM

Citigo and Aygo “automatics” are awful because they are not real automatics. They are robotised automated manuals, horrible to drive and not very reliable. The only small torque converter automatics are the Kia Picanto 1.25 four-speed (with a seven-year, 100,000-mile warranty) and the Hyundai i10 1.25 (with a five-year unlimited warranty).

Torque of the town

I have a problem with the ball of my left foot and have to wear a medical insert in my shoe. Pressing the clutch pedal causes pain so I am thinking of buying an automatic. For many years I have driven Fords, but how do its automatics perform? DC

The reliability of Powershifts fitted to smaller Fords has been terrible, so much so that it is now switching back to torque converter autos. You will find six-speed torque converter autos already fitted to Mazdas, the Suzuki Swift and Baleno and most new Citroëns or Peugeots.

Electric barrier

A plug is seen coming from the Chevrolet Volt electric car during the North American International Auto Show in Detroit...A plug is seen coming from the Chevrolet Volt electric car during the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan January 13, 2009. REUTERS/Mark Blinch (UNITED STATES) - Credit: MARK BLINCH
Will petrol- and diesel-powered cars become more expensive as more and more electric cars come on to the market? Credit: MARK BLINCH

In your estimate, how long will it be before the increasing number of electric cars reduces the sale of petrol to the point where the reduced quantity of petrol sold causes a noticeable rise in its cost? MD

I don't think petrol and diesel will go away completely and I don't think more than 30 per cent of cars will be electric by 2050, never mind 2040. To generate the electricity to make even 50 per cent of the UK car pool electric (that's 16,000,000 vehicles), we would need a completely upgraded electrical infrastructure and a nuclear power station in every MP's back yard...

It’s behind you...

When buying a new BMW 2-series Active Tourer, I was told the blind spot mirror warning was not available. Why is this? PH

It's a £160 option on the BMW X3, but high vehicles have more need because cars can creep below their blind spots.

Musical bucks

A friend with two teenage children needs a sound, reliable, petrol car. Budget £5,000. A Honda Jazz fits, but they get snapped up. PM

That’s because they are practical, fuel efficient and reliable. It’s worth persisting with a Jazz hunt, but avoid the 2008-2011 i-shift version.

Cash 4 questions

BMW 4-Series Convertible - with electric folding hard-top roof
Solid investment: the BMW 4-Series Convertible has a folding steel roof

My wife has inherited some money. On her bucket list is a four-seater convertible with automatic transmission. What’s available for £30,000? MN

A BMW 4-series with an electric folding hard-top roof.

Forester recommission

We have a 2016 Subaru Forester that came with a five-year warranty. Recommended oil changes are annual. We were considering changing the oil and filter ourselves instead of making a three-hour round trip to the dealer and paying £130 to have them do the work. Would we be infringing the terms of the warranty? AL

It’s not worth it if there is any chance of voiding the warranty. And for the UK £130 is cheap. The same job is £250 on an Audi and up to £300 on a BMW.

Missing Cat

I am trying to track a black Jaguar, and know the registration number. Can you help? TM

The official site is: www.gov.uk/get-vehicle-information-from-dvla, though Data Protection means the information is limited. If the driver of this car caused you damage, you can use www.gov.uk/request-information-from-dvla.

Auf wiedersehen petrol?

A recent reply to SL implied that future emission regulations will make particulate filters necessary on petrol cars. What about the effect on drivers doing only short journeys? CH

We don't yet know, but we can safely anticipate that they will function best where the engine has an integrated exhaust manifold and the PPF can be close-coupled directly to get maximum heat.

Cat letter

Recently you wrote that the 2.0-litre Ingenium diesel-engined Land Rover Discovery Sport had some design issues due to the particulate filter being mounted too far away from the engine. Would this also apply to the Jaguar F-Pace? DP

No, because in the F-Pace the engine is mounted longitudinally so the DPF can be close-coupled to the exhaust manifold and works more efficiently. Same goes for the XE and XF.

Orchestral manoeuvres

Craftsman Create Traditional Harps...CAPEL CURIG, UNITED KINGDOM - NOVEMBER 16: Harpist Hero Melia, aged eleven, poses with her Pilgrim Harp in the mountains of Snowdonia on November 16, 2010 in Capel Curig, United Kingdom. Hero was spotted on television by the craftsmen of Pilgrim Harps, in Surrey, England and they are giving her a handmade and personalised harp by the instrument artists. The small dedicated team work in a converted coach house creating the classical instruments with intricate details carved by hand. (Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images) - Credit: Christopher Furlong/Getty Images
Logistical nightmare: what is the best used car in which to transport a harp? Credit: Christopher Furlong/Getty Images

My wife has a Skoda Yeti, which she likes, but now she requires a used car that will accommodate her harp. She would prefer a petrol engine and extra ground clearance is helpful to get up our farm track. What do you recommend? GP

A Honda HR-V. It is huge inside.

Clean break

I have a Volvo C30 1.6 TD that has run on supermarket fuel since new. It is nine years old and has done 45,000 trouble-free miles. Would it be a good idea to change over permanently to superdiesel at this stage of its life? I understand the benefits of the more expensive fuel, but have I left it too late to be of any use? RB

It’s never too late. Use a diesel injector cleaning additive with the first fill, then stick to the same brand of super. You may not notice an immediate improvement, but you will over the coming weeks.

Ring of steal

What type of security lock can I use on my Peugeot 108? AS

Get yourself a Disklok from Halfords. This is a big, beautifully made metal cover that envelops the entire steering wheel. They cost about £100. Highly inconvenient, especially to a thief.

Break pads

I have noticed over recent months that the number of vehicles with no front registration plates is growing. I thought it was a legal requirement to display the registration plate at both ends of a vehicle, so is there a reason for this? RW

It’s partly due to parking bumps and the fact that a lot of number plates are held on these days by double-sided sticky pads that eventually give way. Of course, if an owner removes the front plate then ANPR will not record them entering a car park. That could be a factor...

Opposite attracts

lamborghini huracan evo - interior - Credit: wolfango.it
Is it worth purchasing a left-hand-drive car abroad for your holidays? Credit: wolfango.it

Would it be a good idea to purchase a left-hand-drive car here and take it to France, in view of the exchange rate? Also, are there many dealers in the UK? RB

No. A left-hand-drive car sold in the UK has to come from Europe so will not be any cheaper here than it is there. If you want to check, the best specialist is www.lhdplace.co.uk near Basingstoke.

Leaking boot

My Honda Jazz has developed a boot leak and I found a large puddle in the spare wheel well. Any idea how it may have happened? ES

It was probably splashed in by the rear wheels via the low-level one-way cabin vent flaps that are situated between the lower sides of the load area and the rear bumper valance extensions. Rodents have been known to chew their way through these flaps to get at things in the car boot.

That’s the spirit...

vodka bottle - Credit: David Rose
Don't drink and drive, but it's ok to add vodka to your screenwash Credit: David Rose

I have read some tips about keeping your car looking its best using a number of everyday products. One is vodka in the screenwash – all it takes is three cups of vodka, four cups of water and two teaspoons of washing up liquid, shake well, then pour into the reservoir. This will easily remove all dirt collected on the windscreen, and ensure it doesn’t freeze if it gets colder. MM

I quite like that idea.

Art of glass

What is windscreen recalibration? PF

If the screen has a section with a light sensor, rain sensor and camera, and the car needs a new screen, those functions might need to be recalibrated.

Rough justice

File photo dated 16/01/16 of cars parked on a residential street in London. Nearly two thirds of teachers would support car-free roads outside schools during drop-off and pick-up times, a survey suggests. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Monday March 25, 2019. The poll also indicates that more than half (59%) want the Government to take urgent action to improve air quality outside schools. See PA story EDUCATION Pollution. Photo credit should read: Lauren Hurley/PA Wire - Credit: Lauren Hurley/PA
What happens if your car is damaged and written off while it's parked in the street outside your house? Credit: Lauren Hurley/PA

My car has been written off by a third-party collision while parked outside my house. Am I correct in understanding that my insurance should reinstate me financially to where I was immediately before the collision? DR

The driver who crashed into your car is liable to restore you to the position you were in before they did the damage. Their insurer usually interprets this as giving you market value for your car before it was wrecked and county courts have upheld this as a "reasonable" settlement.

Obscured by clouds

With the decline of diesel and ultimately petrol cars, plus the introduction of hybrids and electric cars, are there any manufacturers that use solar roof panels to recharge batteries? TM

A solar roof panel is an option on the Toyota Prius PHEV. But in the UK the annual sunlight is only enough to power it for about 412 miles. It does better in Rome, where annual sunshine takes it 720 miles.

Firmly in favour

After 20 years of driving BMWs I decided to change and now have an Audi S5, which comes with normal tyres and a space-saver spare. I’m thinking of switching to run-flat tyres because I don’t intend changing wheels on the hard shoulder. What’s your view? GP

Eminently sensible. The car will already have a tyre pressure monitoring system, so no problem, but for the same tyre size the ride will be a bit harder.

Money for nothing?

My grandson has a Vauxhall Astra diesel van with a broken cambelt. Can we anticipate restoration or replacement? WW

If valves have hit pistons the engine is probably scrap. It might be a matter of sourcing an engine and having it rebuilt by a member of www.fer.co.uk, but this could cost more than the repaired van will be worth.

Failing, the pressure?

The oil light has come on in my Honda Civic 1.6 diesel. The level seems OK when checked. It was serviced by Honda only six weeks ago. Any ideas? RB

It might indicate a lack of oil pressure, in which case you’d better get it checked urgently and not drive the car. Get straight on to your Honda dealer. The oil pump might have failed.

Withering heights

To replace front brake pads on my 2013 Ford Kuga 2.0 TDCI I’ve been quoted almost £900. Seems steep to me. DR

Steep? That’s pretty much vertical. I suspect it needs new discs as well as pads, but £900 is still expensive.

Swift payment

I am about to start a job that will involve about 500 miles of motorway driving per week. I want a used petrol car, either a convertible or a fairly economical SUV, for about £15,000. What should I look at? AC

You could get a Fiat 500C TwinAir for £15,000 after a bit of bargaining. It does about 45mpg. You might get a used Suzuki Vitara S 1.4T Boosterjet for £15,000. Or a used Peugeot 2008 1.2 Puretech 130. Both of these also do about 45mpg. For more fun and better economy go for a Suzuki Swift 1.0T Boosterjet mild hybrid, which can return 55mpg.

State of shock

Alfa Romeo 147 front suspension
If your car's suspension springs have broken, is it it necessary to replace the dampers at the same time?

I need to replace broken rear springs on my Vauxhall Astra estate (MoT fail).  Halfords "recommended" replacing the dampers as well, which seems excessive to me and unnecessarily expensive. The car has done 35,000 miles and does only about 3,000 miles a year. What do you reckon? RH

If the springs have broken then the dampers are probably in a state of shock, too, especially on an estate that carries loads. If you don't replace them now you will probably have to replace them within the next year, then pay for the dismantling and refitting all over again.

Balancing act

Could you clarify the damage caused by having a tread depth discrepancy of more than 3mm across the axle on a BMW 3-series xDrive? AH

A disparity in tread depth is detected by the system as slippage, so the electronics then try to compensate for it and work overtime, leading to wear in the system.

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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 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

dog hanging out of car - Credit: Andrew Austin/Alamy
What's the best car in which to transport an ageing canine? Credit: Andrew Austin/Alamy

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

My Subaru Outback has a very hard ride. Can I 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 - ideally 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 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

car floodwater spray - Credit: Owen Humphreys/PA
Is there an obvious reason why NM's car has water in the footwells? Credit: Owen Humphreys/PA

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 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? 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 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 a cooling system failure stopped the car and we face a £24,000 repair bill. It cost more than £65,000 new and we 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 1.0-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.

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 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

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 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 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 and is still going well, but we are starting to look for its replacement. 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?

flat tyre - Credit: Getty Images
If a punctured tyre is beyond repair, do you have to replace the other side as well? Credit: Getty Images

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.

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 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 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.

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?

21438004_Car_accident_minor_damage
Is a dealer legally bound to inform you if a car has been involved in a collision?

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.

Not asking for much

I want to buy a small, reliable and comfortable SUV with an automatic gearbox. 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

Volkswagen Type 2 camper van
Transport of delight: is a classic Volkswagen camper van a sensible purchase?

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

Clarkson with a fag in a Jag
Smoking in cars creates a nasty niff. How do you get rid of the offensive odour?

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.

Taking Cat to vet

I recently took delivery of a new 3.0-litre supercharged Jaguar F-Pace. It 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”.

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