Buying a used car - petrol or diesel?

I'm looking for a five year old car, with a budget of £9000. I'm inclined toward a diesel due to the low-down torque and economy, but also think that a petrol might be cheaper in the long run. The car...

What are the pitfalls of buying a used hybrid?

My mother is looking to buy a Toyota Auris 1.8 VVTi Hybrid T4 CVT Auto (2011 model) with 43,000 miles on the clock. What are the pros and cons of a hybrid this age? She mainly drives around town on short...

How long should an exhaust system last?

My Toyota Urban Cruiser has done 51,000 miles, is on a 2009 plate and the joint between the back box and the remainder of the system has corroded through and is now detached. Should I have expected it...

What should I replace my Touran with?

I currently own a Volkswagen Touran Sport diesel with a DSG gearbox. The car is big enough to fit my non-foldable wheelchair in the boot and is fine for my general driving needs, but I've grown bored with...

Buying a used car for £8k - Toyota or Volkswagen?

My budget is between £8000 to £11000. I drive 50 miles on the motorway everyday and really want a reliable car. I've shortlisted the following cars: Toyota Auris Diesel 1.4D-4D 2013 (Mileage 12K Oct 2013) Volkswagen...

Turbo failure on Ford C-Max - Scrap or repair?

We bought a 2006 Ford C-Max 1.6 2006 three years ago for £5000. Sadly the turbo has failed for the third time! It was only replaced two months ago so we cannot face it happening again and want to replace...

What's the best automatic car for £3000?

I have just got my driving licence and am looking to buy an used economical automatic car, with a budget of £3000. I like the Toyota Prius MK2 (2003) with the CVT 'box and the Mazda2 (2003). Which car...

Buying my first car - Yaris or Corolla?

I'm looking to buy my first car and have narrowed down the choices to a Toyota Yaris T Sport (2004) and a Toyota Corolla T Spirit (2004). Both are available at similar prices, although the Yaris is faster...

Are Toyota RAV4s reliable?

I am thinking of buying a 2008 Toyota RAV4 with the 2.2 D-CAT engine. I've found a manual version with 113,000 miles on the clock with a full service history. How is this car and engine?

Can you recommend a large and economical estate?

I want to buy a sensible, spacious economical estate car, which will be predominantly driven in town. I am thinking on a new Auris Touring Sports with the 1.6 petrol engine. Is this a good choice?