Why does my Megane's drive shaft need replacing after the garage changed the gaiters earlier this year?

I have a 2009 Renault Megane 1.6 Dynamique 5-door, mileage 44,750. It has a full service / MOT history with my local Renault garage. At the MoT in April they renewed both rubber gaiters on the constant...

Keeping oil levels right in my Aston Martin?

I am about to drive about 3500 miles in my new Aston Martin Vantage 4.7-litre manual. The oil level is half way, should I keep it at maximum or just below at all times?

Should my Daihatsu Terios' brake pads have been changed with 3mm pad depth remaining?

My 6-year-old Daihatsu Terios (47,000 miles on the clock) has just had an annual service and MoT test. During this I was informed that the front brake pads needed replacing and agreed to this being done...

Timing chain issues on BMW 118d?

I have a December 2009 BMW 118d with 50,000 miles. I've seen increasing reports on forums about the timing chains snapping to the extent that it seems inevitable on all models with this engine - people...

Replacing a coil spring with non OEM part?

My Golf mkV GT with 80k miles has a broken coil spring. My garage (not a franchise dealer) advises to fit genuine Volkswagen parts but there are none in the country and it will be about 10 days. Does this...

Mazda6 estate injector seals - DIY job?

I have a 2007 Mazda6 Estate 2.0 diesel. I have a leak around the fuel injection seals - is it possible to replace these seals or does it require special equipment to press them in?

Clutch replacement, should I replace the DMF at the same time?

I own a 2007 Citroen Xsara Picasso VTX 1.6 HDi and the clutch has started to slip with acceleration, but it's still OK for gentle cruising. I plan to take it to Mr Clutch for: New Clutch @ £350, and New...

Shall I change the timing belt on my recently purchased Polo?

We recently purchased a used Volkswagen Polo 1.4 (1999) with 180,000 km from a family that was the original owner. We have taken it to mechanics that confirm it is in very good condition. However, they...

Why do you not support the independent garage sector?

As an independent garage owner, I take issue with your warranties and servicing comments. To say “fiddle around and mess it up” implies the independent sector is made up of a breed of inferior technicians,...

Why don't drivers have their cars serviced at independent workshops instead of franchised dealers?

I read with interest your replies to AB and JD about the advisability of franchised dealer servicing in order to keep a new car warranty valid. Over the years I have experienced the efforts of both franchised...