Easy TSI

I am thinking of changing my 2006 Focus 1.6 (113) Zetec for a new Octavia with the 1.4 turbo petrol engine. I would appreciate your view on small turbo petrol engines in general and this one in particular....

Maz’d hysteria

I have been watching an increasing number of entries on your Mazda 3 technical forum with problems associated with the Dynamic Stability Control unit. As the repair of this problem, a replacement unit,...

Surpricing news

I am confused about second-hand car prices. Have they risen recently, either because of an allegedly improving economy, or because the scrappage scheme has pulled a large number out of the market? Or have...

Doggy bags

I’m considering a replacement for our Volvo V40 under Scrappage and would be grateful for your advice on suitable alternatives. It has to be automatic and big enough for two of us and a large dog plus...

Easy DSG

Could you please explain the different driving technique of a DSG gearbox, and a standard autobox? Do you need to put the car in neutral at every stop, lights etc. My new car is a Skoda Octavia 1.8TSI...

Unstable ABS

Had a warning light come up on my 2005 BWW 1 Series. The manual suggests Suspension Stability Control. BMW diagnostics states "brake hydraulic malfunction " DTC at a cost of £1,200 part + £500 labour....

Dodgy challenger

I have a dodgy back, and a large dog, and I have to do a high mileage. But I also want to be as green as possible. I therefore want a diesel automatic with a big enough boot to accommodate the dog. At...

In stabiliity

I write of my Mazda 3 that shows a DSC fault warning light. I had the fault analysed by a Mazda garage and found it to be Code C1288 Pressure transducer Main Primary Input failure. The garage contacted...

Looking for a big family car

I am looking for a big car for my three kids and wife. Which car is big and cheap? I only really need a 5-seater and only have about £3,500 to spend? What do you think of the old Skoda Superb? Is a saloon...

Pet project?

I am tempted by the 20% “VAT” equivalent savings on offer by Skoda on petrol engined Skoda Octavias and I am considering changing my current car a 2006 Skoda Octavia L&K Estate 105 PDI owned by me from...