What is the Eco Drive engine like?

I am wary of Skoda because of problems your readers have reported on Volkswagen Group engine management systems. I would appreciate your thoughts on Eco Drive engines. They are being put in large cars...

Replacing a DSG automatic Octavia?

I have enjoyed my 2006 DSG Skoda Octavia (Elegance) but the ride is lumpy and the engine is quite noisy. I do about 12k miles a year, mostly out of town and long trips, and would like a softer riding...

Should I be wary of a 2011 Mondeo with a 2010 paint colour?

I am considering a 2-litre diesel 140 automatic Mondeo Titanium X from a large dealership. The car is on a 61 plate but the body colour has been omitted from the Ford brochure since August 2010. The car...

Buying a Ford Grand C-Max automatic - no choice but a diesel?

I read your good review about a Ford Grand C-Max and am planning to buy a new one. As I only want to go for an automatic, there is only a 2.0-litre diesel engine to chose from. Given that I am not a...

Ford Fiesta 'Engine System Fault'

Frequently at 70mph the 'Engine System Fault' message appears and the car, 2008 Fiesta TDCI goes into Limp Home Mode. Ford plugged it in and said that it pointed towards the fuel filter, which we had...

What is causing '50p tyre syndrome' on my Ford C-Max?

My Ford C-Max 1.6 TDCI CVT auto has developed a droning noise from the rear axle. It’s been in my local garage twice because I suspected a bearing had gone, but all front and rear bearings are sound and...

Why won't Ford pay for a bonnet release cable repair on my Mondeo?

My car is a March 2009 Ford Mondeo 2.2-litre Titanium X five-door. I became the second owner on 18 August 2009 and the car has now covered 25,902 miles. It has regularly been serviced by a Ford Main Agent...

We need two hatchbacks for carrying babies and mountain bikes - what do you suggest?

We are expecting our first baby in May and therefore need to replace our cars with something a little more baby friendly. We own a faithful but decrepit 11-year-old Daihatsu Charade for the practical side...

Should I buy a diesel car or go for a petrol model?

I'm considering buying a secondhand older model Ford Focus Diesel, up to say 18 months old. Two friends have cautioned me about the diesel engine and/or the turbo, some parts which cost a lot to replace...

Which 4x4 SUV do you recommend?

I’m looking to replace my 2003 Rover 75 Connoisseur with a good, dependable and economical 4x4. Reviews and comparisons of CR-Vs and RAV4s are pretty much split even either way as to which is the best?...