buying and selling | Ask Honest John

Ask Honest John

Most recently answered buying and selling questions

What seven-seater can your recommend for towing a caravan?

What car would you suggest for drivers over 70?

My parents are looking to replace their trusty 2003 Honda Civic with something a bit more up to date. They've tried the new Civic but complain it's too low for their aged knees. They are considering the...

Should I get a Vauxhall Corsa or a Kia Picanto?

I've seen a 2007 Vauxhall Corsa and a 2009 Kia Picanto for the same price. Which should I go for?

Would you recommend buying a high mileage 2002 Subaru Impreza II WRX 2.0?

I've found a 2002 Subaru Impreza II WRX 2.0, 110,000 miles, fitted with the Prodrive Performance Pack (ECU reprogramming, downpipe, exhaust). Will this be a reliable engine? From the looks of it, it's...

How much would cigarette burns on upholstery knock down the sale price?

I'm selling a 2011 Peugeot 107 Urban. The average price was £2500 - £3500. How much would you expect a dealer to request a price decrease for two cigarette burns on the front seats? I have accepted £1900.

Apart from rust - is there anything to look out for on the older Mazda MX5 models?

I'm looking to buy a Mazda MX5 and don't want to spend more than £4000. I'm aware some early models are prone to rusty sills, are there any other things to look out for? I'm also torn between a Mk1 with...

Is it a good idea to buy a pre-registered BMW 1 Series?

A dealer bought an old vehicle from me - do I have to refund him after he found rust?

I had an 18 year old campervan up for sale. A dealer inspected it and reduced his offer by £500 because of some bodywork rust, this was agreed. He bought it, then contacted me to say there was more rust...

Could you recommend a petrol towcar to replace my diesel Hyundai ix35?

I tow a 1500kg caravan with a diesel Hyundai ix35 2.0 4WD. I have already experienced an EGR problem which culminated in a frightening journey with the caravan. I have been considering petrol alternatives,...

What steel-roof convertible would you recommend with reasonable running costs?

I'm looking at buying a convertible under £25,000 that is comfortable on the motorway, fun to drive with reasonable running costs and ideally a steel folding roof to cut down on motorway noise. I think...