Ask Honest John

Most recently answered maintenance questions
When I looked up the Platinum Plus additive on Google it threw up several other additives also. All claimed to decrease fuel consumption, give smoother running and aid the DPF. Those mentioned were; Millers...
Some time ago you responded to a letter from a company that used some kind of additive in their diesel fleet vans. I think it was about £65 to buy but you only put in a small amount each time and it saved...
I am taking possession of a new Honda CR-V 2.2 iDTEC EX auto at the end of the month. With previous diesel vehicles I have driven them from new following your guidelines with no problems. Unfortunately...
The reaction between brass valves and alloy caps is caused by electrolysis and can be reduced significantly by smearing the brass stem or cap with Vaseline. I had a major problem with brass fire hydrants,...
For reasons lost in the mists of time I have always been a Citroen freak and I actually own a nice 2CV. Our main cars have been BXs, Xantias, C5s and so on. I'm currently thinking of updating my current...
My brilliant but under-used Fiat 500 (7200 miles) is coming up to five years old and is due an MOT and service. Last year the dealer did a "32-point service" for about £260. This included re-gassing the...
This may seem almost like stating the obvious, but please can you remind all readers to check their headlights from time to time? At this time of year, both my husband and I see an alarming number of people...
My car is a 1997 Mondeo 1.8TD, currently with 197,000 miles on clock. I've had it from new and the performance and fuel consumption are the same as when it was new. It has been extremely reliable, and...
I purchased a Volkswagen Passat Sport TDI DSG estate new in March 2009. It has been dealer-serviced since new and now has 35,000 miles on the clock. Over the last six months or so it has developed a habit...
Unfortunately there is no column like yours in Canada, so I am writing to you. I would like to buy a 2005 or 2006 Aston Martin DB9 convertible. What are the concerns I should look at before buying, and...