buying a used car | Ask Honest John

Ask Honest John

Most recently answered buying a used car questions

I am used to driving a 270bhp (remapped etc.) BMW E83 auto and need a similar replacement that is not too large. I don't exceed 5,000 miles per annum, but don't mind having another diesel - no preference....

No service history in car advert, is this bad?

Is it fair to assume that when a car is advertised without any comment on its service history, either there is no history or it's very 'part-history'?

Best first car for an 18-year-old new driver?

My 18-year-old daughter has just passed her driving test. We would like to find her something to drive and would appreciate your advice. We are looking for a used small car. We are keen on Volkswagens,...

Can you recommend a reliable, premium used car?

I'm looking at a 2009 Audi Q5 3-litre, a 2010 Volkswagen Golf GTI or a 2013 BMW 330d xDrive, which is more reliable and a better overall car to drive?

Can you recommend a replacement for a BMW 528i Touring?

I need your advice on replacing my much loved (from new) and well-cared for BMW E39 of 1999 vintage because come next summer, if the Mayor of London has his way, it will be too costly to run with the expanded...

Recommendation for a used car for a beekeeper?

Please can you recommend a second-hand car for a beekeeper to carry all his beekeeping paraphernalia. Also does four trips a year of around 600 miles each and the car is required for a daily commute....

Can you recommend an SUV or estate car that can carry ladders?

My 2014 2.0-litre diesel auto BMW 5 Series falls foul of the clean air zone (CAZ) requirements. It's been my third 5 Series, used for my work as a surveyor. The rear seats fold to accommodate my ladders...

Can you recommend a petrol hybrid under £40,000 for towing?

I currently drive a 2016 1.6-litre diesel Nissan X-Trail doing about 10,000 miles a year in total, of which 75 per cent is short urban journeys, the remainder being towing a 1,400kg caravan. As the car...

Which is the best petrol automatic small SUV?

I'm looking to buy a new petrol automatic small SUV such as the SEAT Arona or other makes. My priority is mpg.

Ford Focus or Vauxhall Astra - which is best?

I'm torn between buying a 2014 Ford Focus 1.0-litre EcoBoost or 2012 Vauxhall Astra 1.4-litre Turbo GTC. Both cars have good history and in good condition. Any thoughts on which one is better?