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...

Why does my local dealership insist that brake discs are replaced at the same time as brake pads?

I have a 2008 Audi A4 TDi which was recently serviced at my local Audi dealership and I was told that the front brake pads would soon need replacing. The warning light has now come on, so I phoned the...

Why does my 1990 Lancia Delta's turbo 'whoosh' when it comes on boost?

I have just bought a very low mileage and immaculate 1990 Lancia Delta HF Turbo. Do you have any advice about looking after the turbo? It makes a ‘whoosh’ sound when coming on. Is this normal?

Why did this workshop charge for an oil top-up before MoTing our Audi A4?

My wife had her Audi A4 MoT'd at the Halford Autocentre in Horsham, West Sussex. When she collected the car, she was charged £15 for topping up the engine oil. I called the garage and complained that she...

What could have caused my air conditioning unit to fail?

Having read your column for several years I am aware of the need to occasionally switch on the aircon during the winter months. Despite having done this I now find that my aircon no longer operates when...

Does my Volvo V70 have a chain cam engine?

I am seeking to find out about the engine fitted to my Volvo V70 SE Lux D3. I have been told that it is fitted with a chain camshaft drive, but I cannot find any details of this in the handbook or on the...

Should I have the timing chain replaced on my 13-year-old Ford Mondeo?

I have a 13-year-old Mondeo that is running well but I am wondering about the timing chain. If this goes the car is scrap. Should I have it changed and is there anything that should be changed at the same...

Should I change the cam belt in my Alfa Romeo 156?

I have a 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 1.8 Twin Spark, which I bought three years ago. It seems to be an excellent example, as the only problem I have had with it was the expiration of the original Alfa battery...

How can I clean brake dust off my wheels?

I clean my car every month but I have noticed that there has been a steady build up of some small hard spots of brake material on the wheels that is very difficult to remove, even with a pressure washer....

Has the new Nissan X-Trail's turbo problem been solved?

I have a 2005 Nissan X-Trail and it has had a new turbo and intercooler. Apart from the turbo issue, the car has been very reliable and I have been pleased with it. I would like to buy the newer version...