Why are new cars sold with misleading fuel economy figures, like my new Ford Focus EcoBoost?

I would like to warn any of your readers wishing to save money on fuel that the new Ford 1.0 EcoBoost engine is not the way to go. I recently bought the Ford Focus Zetec EcoBoost 125 and the mpg is seriously...

Could you do a long range economy test on a hybrid vs a modern diesel?

I love diesels as they suit the terrain here in southern Spain; lots of steep hills where you do not need to change to a lower gear to easily get up them, but we have to go with the flow I guess. I have...

I want to fit higher-profile tyres to my Ford Fiesta

I've just bought a July 2009 Fiesta 1.4 Titanium. It has low profile Pirelli tyres on it, and has a tyre repair kit in the boot. Ideally I'd like to replace the tyres with 'normal' higher-profile ones,...

Ford Focus - warranty vs wear and tear

My car is due out of warranty next month. I have just been advised by Green Flag (starting problem) that the fan belt and tensioners are worn, and should be changed. The car has done 35,000 miles. Is...

I'm looking to downsize to a Ford Fiesta

I'm looking to downsize from 2008 Vauxhall Zafira 1.6 as I no longer the need an MPV. I like the look of the 2008 Ford Fiesta - what's the best engine? I do about 8000 miles a year (mixture of motorway/urban),...

Mum's looking for an easy to get into car

I have an elderly mother who is now finding it difficult to get into a normal car. Can you suggest small and medium cars that have high seating/floorpans? Not necessarily 4x4s...

Replacing my Volkswagen estate - which MPV?

I want to replace my 2000 Volkswagen Passat 1.8 petrol estate with something of a similar size. I need five seats plus room for a wheelchair, and it should be able to cope with regular short journeys....

Ignition key fob battery is low - where can I get it replaced?

I have a 2004 Ford Focus 1.6. My ignition key battery power is very low now, with 80,000 miles on the car, so that it takes three or four attempts to unlock the doors. Can you suggest where we can get...

Which diesel MPV for short trips?

I am looking to replace my car with a MPV. The two options I am considering are the Ford Grand C-Max 1.6 Ecoboost petrol or the 2012 Renault Grand Scenic 1.6dCI 130. My main concern with the Renault is...

What are the best winter tyres for a Ford Focus?

We have bought a 2010 Ford Focus Hatchback 1.8 Zetec petrol. It will be used to take us to the French Alps where we live during the winter. While there it will be kept in an underground car park but used...