December 2007
How many of you brake-hating dinosaurs [ ;) ] have actually tried stopping from 70MPH as quickly as possible?
P.S. it's inadvisable to try this on the public roads - it can show up unfortunate defects in braking systems! Read more
www.bbc.co.uk/radio4/
Select "You and yours". (This may not be available until end of transmission - 13:00)
It is at the start of the program.
It details some of the extreme extent the scammers have gone to and some of the garages affected.
It also has a superb example of " caught on the job".
Read more
I have a VW Golf Plus 1.9 TD Sport, two years old, 40k miles.
It is very comfortable but the road noise is dreadful and very tiring on a long journey.
I previously drove a Mk 4 Golf TDI GT, which also had sports suspension and fat tyres, like this one, but that was much quieter.
The present tyres are Continental - any suggestions as to the choice of replacement tyre, meeting the objectives of grip, wear and quiet? Read more
Not really a problem with the Mark 5 estate - you can hear a bit of road noise but no worse than any other car I've had. The whole car is very quiet at 70-80 mph in 6th gear. It came with Michelin Energy tyres (205/55 R16): possibly as suggested above these may be quieter than others.
My son will be 17 years old in January and is keen to learn to drive. He's bright and knowledgable about how cars work and the basics of driving. I had him driving on an airfield (with a permit) and he picked up the basics of car control within an hour, so I don't think he's going to be one of those 'problem learners' that needs hours and hours of tuition and many attempts at the the test.
Some of his friends are looking at doing 'intensive' courses - anyone tried these?
Any opinions on most effective way of learning and what are 'good' driving schools (BSM, AA?).
Any comments appreciated, especially those that have recently been through this experience.
Thanks. Read more
'intensive' courses - provern to work in the services both the Police and Army train their staff this way - problem is the lad is 17 and probably has a million and one things in his life (school, college, girlfriend mates etc) to learn this way takes motavation and concentration).
I learnt to drive with an independent who was highly recommended. The thing with driving schools; which are brands, are there really is no advantage -not cheaper, not proven to be any better.
Having had a chat only recently with an ADI and he formed the view that "everyones different it can take someone 12 one hour session some people 40 it depends on the pupil.
I have a starting problem in my Fiat Palio 2003 Diesel 1.9D.
After a gap of 3~4 hours or more (or cold start) the following is observed
1. Initially it starts but immediately the engine goes off within 2~4 seconds
2. Thereafter I have to run the starter for about 3~4 times for 30 secs each (with a gap of course) before it starts. No acceleration is required. Then only the engine starts functioning fine.
Its not a heater problem
The diesel filter has been cleaned and checked. After each check up the engine starts ok for next 2 days and then again this starting problem persists.
Any advice on what are the possible reasons. Which area can there be an air leak into the Diesel line.
Read more
Peter - checking the air leakage. on the fuel filter inlet? or tank side also?
Is it possible that a new filter and new orings will solve the problem. Or would it be a computer related problem.
I am thinking of replacing my 110 chipped to 143 V reg passat sport estate.
Its done 165k and runs very well but I fancy a change. The handling of the Passats has always been a touch vague for me
After a diesel with minimum of 150bhp sporty looks and drive. Have a budget of £8k not inc any trade in. The budget suggest a highish mileage ex fleet car with FSH etc
I probably prefer a prestige make Audi Saab Volvo BMW etc rather than the Ford Vauxhall offerings but not ruling anything out.
Reliability performace and handling are key. No smaller than and A4/ Octavia size.
Thanks Read more
I'd go along with the Skoda Octavia. Would also recommend the Toyota Avensis - loads of carrying space and great acceleration & fuel economy.
Vectra is not too bad - but spoiled by the usual (IMO) crap Vauxhall finish.
Saab 9-5 very roomy and great on a long drive - but second mortgage required if anything goes wrong with the fuel delivery system.
Well, there is another one...
tinyurl.com/3e4jyq
Hi
We now have a 56 plate honda civic, which my wife is very happy with. The recent storms have highlighted a serious leak in the boot which is practically flooding the compartment, and according to the civinfo.forum is letting in water from the plastic perspex two piece on the back, not being bonded properly.
I've been on to the local dealers for about a week now, and the service manager is denying any reports of faults, even though the civinfo forum has a few mentions already. He's going to call me back later today.
Is there any way of finding out if there would have been a recall or similar on such an issue? Has anybody here had any luck with their dealer?
thanks
valmiki Read more
I fitted some +80 Philips bulbs to my car about 8 months ago and one of them has already blown. Considering that the majority of this time was over the summer and therefore little headlight usage, i'm a little disappointed.
Is this the norm for plus bulbs?
Thanks Read more
I must admit that I did find that they illuminated the road very well. Also, as Philips agree that 8 months isn't a reasonable lifespan they are replacing them for me.
All in all, I'd have to recommend them.
PS - My car has H7's and I think that if you have H1's the increase is even better.
Hopefully on Tuesday I would be buying a Quattro, and then have 3 days leave.
Not keen to drive all the way to France since I have to drive on the other side of the road, but have 4 full days to drive it around ....
Any suggestions please on where I could take it at this time?
Isle of Man?
Lake district?
Highlands??
Any suggestions or random thoughts on any other places at all please do write ??
Read more
Thanks to all for the suggestions, I guess Isle of Man is something I will have to think about,that is after getting used to the drive here first..
Trouble is its too wet and cold , and while it may be the best time to buy a used car,least demand and larger dealer discounts,it isnt an ideal time to drive it around..
Browse
*cough* Megane *cough*