October 2010
My Volvo 850 sometimes "twangs" from the front end when braking-- particularly when turning in to a parking space for example, but also sometimes when braking in a straight line. I get a bit of feedback through the pedal so suspect the abs, perhaps the pump.
Has anyone had, and solved, a similar problem? Read more
I was looking to buy a nearly new car in the new year and was trying to predict what may happen with 20% VAT.
Will decent used cars suddenly become like gold-dust ?... Read more
I think I said what I intended to say, i.e. implying that the dealers may need to absorb most of the 2.5% hike. . But not nessarily.
Who knows?...
Hi
I've got a very nice low mileage (55k) ST24 that has got noisy in the area of the aux drive belt - when I turn on the aircon it gets noisier so think it is the compressor. Have been quoted £500-£600 all in for a new one from Kempston Radiators. Not sure I want this kind of outlay bearing in mind car's age and that there is some rust that may need attention where the cill meets the rear wheel arch on the driver's side. Possible options suggested by the helpful guy who services my cars are to fit a secondhand one off ebay (£46 delivered plus couple of hours labour) or to fit a shorter belt to bypass the compressor and do without the aircon. I would be very greatful for any opinions on these two options - has anyone out there tried the second option ?... Read more
Good advice - thanks v. much, I will do the checks you suggest. I think you're right re. missing the a/c - would also make it more difficult to sell when the time comes - hopefully not for some time though as I really like the car.
Hi found this place after alot of searching, So hope someone out there can give me a clue as too what is going on.
Had the car just under a yr with no real problems, That was until about 5 weeks ago in 3rd gear the car seems really flat.... Read more
Its not a difficult job or to expensive to put a new clutch in the car it depends on its overall condition as to whether is worth it.
I got my 70+ renewal advice. It said I could do it all on line. Oh No You Can't!
First of all the new/existing photo/having a current passport information is contradictory. It is certainly not clear if, if you have an existing, you need to submit a new photo by snail mail. Then if you assume that you do not and you complete the form, what happens at the end? You have to download a form and sign it and cut the existing DL in half an send it by snail mail. So despite the hype, it cannot be done on line. Read more
Did mine online-got it three days later.
I have a wall mounted television that is connected to the aerial via a standard co-axial cable that is installed underneath the plaster on a solid wall (concealed).
I now want to fit a DVD player (or a combined HD/DVD recorder), and I do not want to have to smash-up the wall in order to fit a concealed SCART lead!
Is there a simple solution to my problem? Is it possible to get a HD/DVD recorder with a coaxial output or alternatively buy a module that will convert the SCART output to a coaxial one?
Thanks for any advice. Read more
You need a SCART to RF modulator. Widely available, Maplin do them although you can get cheaper ones.
Door locked & will not open either from inside or out by pulling all levers & remote control. How do I open & what is likely fault? Read more
We just bought an x reg Mondeo. When we got it home the remote locking didn't work. We tried putting the key in - but the only door that would lock is the driver's. All the other doors have to be locked from the inside first. The passenger door makes a few noises and keeps opening. It can take 5 or 6 attempts to lock it from the inside. The key opens all the doors remotely. When you try and lock it remotely it does make a slight whirring noise like its trying to do something.
There is a new battery in the key. ... Read more
we bought a ford focus tdi on a v plate. it keeps randomley cutting out which can be very danerous. it starts straight away every time. the garage we bought it from took it back and replaced crankshaft sensor ( diagnostic machine read problems with crankshaft and fuel pump). got car back and still kept cutting out. they are now saying the ecu has gone. could the ecu relate to the readings on the diagnostic machine. anyone know ? Read more
Is there any noises coming from the dash, like a "bing bing bing" when it cuts out?
If so when you are driving, try turning off the engine and back on again, if this then makes the accelator work it COULD be your "TPS". (Throtttle position sensor) your accelorator has a little computer in it, not a cable and this could be your problem....
My car was hit by another car while parked, the other driver accepted full responsibility and I contacted my insurance broker who in turn contacted there no-win/no-fee type solicitors who then appointed a garage to collect my car. Upon being driven to the garage the my car broke down. I was told that the engine had seized and that it was my responsibility to pay for the repair, I later found out that the garage was 30 miles+ from my home.
The garage have consistantly tried to make me accept the car back in an unworkable state, which I have refused, they are now threatening to crush my car in the next 14 days because I have refused to accept it back in an unworkable state.... Read more
I wouldnt say 30 miles is a long way. The car had damage to the door, it was still driveable so dont really see how thats an issue. Did YOU drive the car after the impact?
Age and mileage of the car is a factor as well as the extent of the damage. A little knock to the door is not likely to have caused a engine problem. A massive knock to the door could have knocked a hose off which could lead to overheating and seizing, but this is pretty unlikely. Something else to consider is that surely it would be in the garages interest to say the problem was caused by the accident, because they would be able to charge the insurers. If it blatantly isnt, they wouldnt be able to....


Check both front springs are intact and seated properly. Regards Peter