Ask Honest John

Most recently answered used cars questions
A recent reader wrote saying that Mercedes had turned down a Warranty claim because the car had been serviced at an Independent garage. My understanding was that provided the service was to the recommended...
Thinking of buying an Audi A4 Avant around 3 to 4yrs old. I am faced with 1.9 TDI,2.0 TDI, 1.8 FSI or a 2.0 FSI. I cover about 8-10 thousand miles a year and would hold on to a car for 8 years or so....
I'm after a car for pulling my touring caravan and have narrowed it down to either the Santa Fe or Vauxhall Frontera, both around 2003/4. What engine would you advise? I've just looked at two Fronteras,...
Not sure which of these two cars I should buy. The 2006 citroen C3 1.4 Desire petrol, manual has 7,000 miles on the clock. The 2004 Toyota Corolla 1.6 VVT-iT2 petrol has 40,000 miles on the clock....
I am looking for a second car that will do 5000 miles a year. Has to be a CC (metal roofed convertible). The SC430 has a magnificent interior and great touring performance, but is a bit ugly and is greedy. The...
I want to buy a used car for use as a workhorse for my gardening business and small amount of towing a small caravan. I have looked at your reviews and come up with Toyota RAV4,Honda CR-V or Nissan X...
We have an older Honda CR-V Executive and want a nearly new soft roader very similar in every respect. But we dislike the front end looks of the new CRV. What would you recommend that fits this criteria:...
I am looking to replace my 2002 diesel Mazda 323 which I have had for 3 years and has been excellent in terms of reliabilty. I would like a similar sized car that is economical and reliable. I travel about...
My daughter has just had her C3 Pluriel (53 plate) written off and needs a replacement for up to £3K, what would you recommend? She liked the Citroen but is hesitant about another Pluriel. She uses the...
I want to buy a 2008/9 Clio Sport Tourer. Either a 1.2 TCe or 1.5 dCi86 if the price is right. What common problems do I need to look for with these engines? All the TCe's have a mayo like substance in...