I'd like to buy a new Skoda Octavia, but does the cam belt really need changing every four years?

The new Octavia is getting acclaim in all the reviews I have seen, but few have tested or commented on the 1.4 TSI 140PS petrol unit which I am thinking of buying to replace my 2007/57 2.0 Mazda 6. Quizzing...

I suggest that people should use dedicated independent specialist garages for repairs and mechanical work.

JB of Alton, the independent garage owner, is quite wrong in his comments. I can prove my point easily and confirm that what you wrote is right. We have local independent garages who serve the local community...

Why does the brake fluid need changing in my Peugeot 407 SW?

I have owned a Peugeot 407 HDI 140 SW for four years and I thoroughly enjoy the car. Servicing has always been done by the excellent local Peugeot agent. I took it in today for 50,000 interim service;...

Will I invalidate my warranty by having my Renault serviced at an independent garage?

My local Renault dealership closed in Weston Super Mare so the nearest dealer is in Bristol. Will I invalidate the 5-year warranty I have with Renault if the car is serviced at a small local garage in...

I was sold a Toyota Hilux with a false service history - can I reject the car?

I bought a 3-year old Toyota Hilux Double Cab pick-up in November 2012. It was supposed to have come straight from Toyota with a full service history, according to the selling garage. A few weeks later...

Can I recommend the Volkswagen Service Package from my local dealer?

I feel TH has been unfortunate over his service deal. I have had a Volkswagen Service Package since 2008 with Sinclair Garages of Bridgend. My current car, a Volkswagen Scirocco, bought in Dec 2010, has...

Should we have the cam belt changed on our 2009 Volkswagen Golf?

Our 2009 Golf 2.0 TDI 140 DSG is due its MoT shortly and, as it has done 30,000 miles, we are being advised by Volkswagen to change the cambelt. Is this right and if so, why so soon? Your help and advice...

Should I buy a BMW 320d which is missing service stamps?

I am looking at a 2008 BMW 320d with 15,000 miles. The trouble is, it only has one stamp in the service book. Should engine oil be changed every year, regardless of miles done?

Why does Ford have no control over Ford franchised workshops?

We have an 8-year-old Ford Ka that has always been looked after by a local independent garage. As it was eight years old we thought we should have it serviced by a Ford main dealer. This proved a disaster....

Are technical service bulletins being used to generate defects in cars which need repairing?

I am a director of a company with two MoT stations, a couple of repair garages and a couple of tyre depots. I have worked with the same company for 30 years and in the motor trade all my life. I am the...