When should I change my brake pads?

I’ve just had my BMW X6 serviced. They stated that my four brake pads are between 5.6 mm and 9mm and that BMW recommends changing them at 5mm. What is the legal requirement for changing them as opposed...

Will using a non franchised garage for servicing invalidate my warranty?

My car is 18 months old and still under warranty. Its service is due and I'm booked in to my local mechanic (not the Volkswagen franchise) because he's £83 cheaper. He will use genuine Volkswagen parts,...

How much work is required to replace a heater matrix?

I have a 2015 Ford B-MAX and water is coming into the driver's footwell. Our nearest Ford garage (which has been very good and I trust) has told me that it is something to do with the heater matrix - either...

My oil warning light came on after 5000 miles - should I be concerned?

I bought a new Golf at the end of 2018 which I intend to keep long term. It drives very nicely but after 5000 miles the oil warning light came on, I topped up with synthetic 0/20 grade oil, about 500 ml...

My local dealer charged me for work that wasn't done - what can I do?

My local Subaru dealer recently charged me £400 to replace the spark plugs on my 2005 Forester. They charged three hours labour as they reckoned the plugs were seized. The car was still idling badly so...

How often should flexible brake hoses be replaced?

What is a reasonable point at which to replace flexible brake hoses? I have a low mileage 1998 MGF in excellent condition and with a well documented service history. While it has had brake fluid changes...

What can I do to ensure my seven-year old Jaguar XF continues to run smoothly?

My 2012 Jaguar XF 2.2 D now has 65000 miles on the clock and I intend keeping it for a few more years yet. Apart from a regular yearly service is there anything I should plan for that will ensure it continues...

How much does it cost to have a lambda sensor replaced?

I recently had an engine fault light come on. I took the car to my local garage and they ran a diagnostic - it came up with a rear lambda sensor fault. They cleared the code and told me that it would be...

Should brake fluid in a new car be changed after three years?

I have just taken my 2016 Ford Kuga in for its three year/30,000 mile service. Ford apparently does not change the brake fluid unless you specifically ask for it to be done and it is at extra cost? Surely...

How often should modern diesel engines have an oil change?

I have just purchased a used Jaguar F-Pace with 10,000 miles on the clock. Jaguar says the next service is not due until October 2020 or after 21,000 miles. I seem to recall you suggesting that diesels...