Ask Honest John

Most recently answered diesel engines questions
You confirmed last week that Shell V-Power diesel has advantages over ordinary diesel in terms of particulates and improved performance. I similarly use BP Ultimate diesel in the expectation that it should...
I am considering changing our second car for a small, cheap-to-run car with low tax. I would buy newish. A Fiat 500 or Mini Clubman both appeal, the Mini possibly as a diesel and the Fiat as a 1.2-litre...
I am driving a 2004 Ford C-Max 1.6 diesel which is giving excellent service and fuel economy. I will keep it for a year or two longer, but I wonder about its replacement. If buying secondhand cars, it...
I currently run a 2006 Honda Accord 2.2 i-CTDi and have been using Shell V-Power diesel fuel exclusively. I was just wondering what your thoughts are and why you singled out BP Ultimate diesel as your...
I currently drive a Mini Clubman Cooper D. I have liked the Mini’s economy and low road tax and would want at least as good, if not better economy from any new car. I do mainly short journeys but also...
I have seen mentioned problems with dual mass flywheels and DPF filters. Are there any diesels that do not use DPF filters or have dual mass flywheel issues? I believe Honda has just started fitting DPF...
I have a Honda Accord bought new in 2006. It is the 2.2-litre CTDI model. I would be grateful if you could tell me if a diesel particulate filter is fitted?
Volkswagen Amarok, Nissan Navara, Ford Ranger, Mitsubishi L200, Toyota Hilux or Isuzu D-Max. Which car is the best according to price and performance? Please give me advice for buying one of these trucks....
I currently have a Nissan P12 Primera 2.2 dCi SVE which is nearly 10 years old, with 108,000 miles. I have been very pleased with this car. It is reliable, economical and not too expensive to maintain....
Earlier this year, I replaced my wife's Mini Clubman Cooper S with the new Clubman Cooper SD. I am delighted with car, although it has a rather noisy engine, it goes well and the torque excellent. I do...