Ask Honest John

Most recently answered buying questions
My neighbour, a taxi driver, needed a newer used car. A local dealer had nothing suitable on his stocks but said that his wife was selling her car. My neighbour went to view the car at his house. He liked...
We decided that our 04 VW Golf needed replacing whilst it still had some value, but VW was not able to offer a reasonable deal, so I remembered your recommendations of Hyundai. It was easy for me to remember...
I am concerned about the previous ownership of my car after reading a recent newspaper report (Daily Telegraph article by Jon Swaine 15th September 2009). I assume that you are aware of this article? In...
Please would you clarify the gearbox difference (if any) between a Toyota Verso Petrol 1.8 litre (called Multidrive S) and a Toyota Verso 2.2 Diesel Automatic. I have spoken to a Toyota Dealer who assures...
I have just bought a second -hand 08 reg. Nissan Note from a branch of Evans Halshaw. After it had been to various branches of the company, and having completed all the paperwork and paid for it etc I...
Are Turbo-Chargers in petrol engines anymore reliable than those fitted in diesel engines?
We are reducing our two cars to one. I have a BMW 1 Series, three years old; my wife a Peugeot 205, five years old. Can you advise of any car about the size of the 205, but of the same quality of the BMW....
I am a private punter thinking of buying a 2002 - 2003 Mercedes A Class at auction (probably Westbury) when one comes up in the listings. Any tips? Or would I be better off going to a dealer through eBay...
I have had a good look around for cars now for over a month and I am looking at spending £4 - £6k on a second-hand car. I would like something with a bit of a kick to it, and medium size. I am heavily...
No 1 daughter is due to produce No 1 grandchild the turn of the year and we are looking for a four/five door replacement for the reliable 12 year old Toyota Starlet which has given its only owner (the...