Why do plastic/nylon timing belt pulleys need to be changed so often?

Plastic and nylon timing belt pulleys in VAG 1.4 and 1.6 16v engines have been an area of concern for many. We all know that the plastic pulley wheels/bearings are more likely to fail than the belt itself....

How do you rate the Mondeo 2.0 TDCI 163ps against the 140ps version?

How do you rate the Ford Mondeo 2.0 TDCI 163PS compared with the 2.0 TDCI 140PS version as regards reliability, value for money, known problems, maintenance, DPF reliability, etc.?

When should I change the timing belt / chain in our Ford S-Max?

We drive a RHD 2009 Ford S-Max that we bought new when we lived in UK. It has now completed 73,500 miles. When should I have the cam belt/chain (not sure which) changed? We really like this car for its...

Silicone grease is an excellent lubricant for the rubber seals in a folding roof.

Following the recent mentions of silicone grease in your column, it is also an excellent lubricant for the rubber seals in a metal folding roof. After a few years the seals dry out, resulting in a lot...

Should I idle my Mondeo 1/6 EcoBoost turbo even after short trips?

Thank you for recommending the Mondeo 1.6 EcoBoost. Your review advises "1.6 EcoBoosts need idling from hot before switching off otherwise oil in the turbo bearing and oil feed to the bearing can carbonise....

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;...

My Volkswagen Golf needs a lot of repairs - should I just sell it on?

I have a 2002 Volkswagen Golf GT PD 130 that has now done 205,000 miles. I bought it two years ago from a family member who had owned it since new. It's been well cared for and I have every receipt. Its...

Under what circumstances should I allow my Mondeo's turbocharger to cool as it spools down?

I have queries on two issues on which you have advised several times. Firstly you have warned that a turbocharged engine should be left idling before switching off to enable the turbo bearings to cool....

Thanks for your recommendation for Shell V-Power for my Vectra.

Years ago I read your views on using high quality fuel. Since then I have always used Shell V-Power in my now quite ancient 1998 R-plate Vectra V6 2.5. The car has been trouble-free and continues to perform...

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...