Ask Honest John

Most recently answered owning questions
As a weekly reader of your column I often see you advise people to change wheel sizes to avoid a certain problem. Would this not affect the speedometer reading, thus making it illegal unless the gearing...
My current car is a 2006 Volvo S40 1.6D. It has 17' wheels with 205 x 50 x R17 93w tyres fitted. I have no complaints except that the ride is a little hard. Would it improve if I fitted 16" wheels and,...
I have a 2006 VW Polo Sport 1.9TDI so it is now 4 years old and has done 18,000 miles. It is about to go in for its annual service and MOT and the garage is recommending changing the cambelt. Is this really...
I own a 2003 Ford Mondeo Ghia Estate 2.0 TDCi (130). The car has run very well since I acquired it when 12 months old. Last year I hit a pothole that resulted in the front offside spring fracturing. I...
I refer to you an item in Sundays lifestyle regarding VAG`s 2.0 litre Diesel engines. For the benefit of someone who is non technical could you explain the benefits of the PD engine against the similarly...
We took delivery of a new Mercedes E350CDI Coupe Sport 2 months ago and have completed 2,000 miles. We choose it in comparison with the equivalent BMW and Audi Coupes based on an overall mix of ride, performance,...
My new KIA Venga 2 (1.6 petrol Automatic) is averaging 25mpg over the first 1,500 miles. Is it normal for a new car to drink juice? Average consumption is quoted at 42.6mpg. It has a 7 yr warranty but...
This isn't a wind up. I just have no mechanical knowledge. I recently bought a used Lexus RX400h and I cannot hear the engine when pulling away. I was wondering if this is normal as I want to reject the...
My Lexus GS300 is now in its 3rd year, with 14,000 miles on the clock. I am not really impressed with my local Lexus dealer, and am considering a service elsewhere. Are there any pitfalls or considerations...
I own a BMW 320D, just coming up to 4 years old and due for a new set of tyres. I loathe and detest the runflat tyres my car came on. In all the cars I have had I have never experienced such a hard ride,...