July 2012
4 months ago the yellow warning light came on. The local independent garage I've used for years checked the fault code, and replaced the catalytic converter. 30 miles later the warning light came on again. 2 further cats, and 2 lambda filters later, and the error persists. Honda have run a diagnostic, and been unable to help further. Now it has failed the MOT, on emissions. The car has done 110,000 and has been a great car to drive. I'd be sorry to have to scrap it. Any thoughts about possible cause?
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Dear colleagues,
I would like to ask for an advice. What would be the best way to get to the Luton Airport on 27th. Apparently it's going to be a challenging day for M25 and I should avoid this motorway. Does anybody know what would be a reasonable alternative route? ... Read more
"I would think at the time you're travelling the M25 should be pretty quiet. Enjoy your day!"
Thanks....
Is this open to the public or hospitality only ? Read more
It's open to all visitors
Even before the 2012 Moscow Auto Show debut, some teaser images of the upcoming Mazda6 has clearly revealed the new headlights, tail-lights, and front grille design. Read more
This is an audio/slideshow on the BBC News website about a German man with a Mercedes G Wagen:
Thanks, I love these stories about driving around the world, as we would like to do this in the next few years. The only problem is money, as we don't like roughing it.
I recently traded in my old E class merc for a newer model. It came with all the extras including 7 days cover from Aviva. Their quote was ridiculous, so I went to Go Compare and saw that my current insurer ABC ( thru' RAC) was only about £20 dearer. I telephoned RAC thinking that I would just upgrade my current policy, but RAC told me that ABC would not accept me as the replacement cost of the new vehicle was too much. When I pointed out that they were quite happy to accept me as new business, via the Internet, I was told that they had no control over what conditions the underwriters imposed, and furthermore it would cost me over £100 to cancel my current policy.
I consider this sharp practice at the very least. Are they entitled to behave like this. ? Read more
They declined to change a vehicle on an existing policy - this is certainly not refusing insurance (and quite common)
Brokers (even the big names can be merely brokers) place the insurance with a selected insurer depending on teh risk profile and costs - if you change teh profile then that specific insurer may not accept the new risk. This where new business will find a suitable insurer....
HELP. My car was damaged in a hail storm. My chosen repairer has provided a quote for the insurance.(£6700). This includes a NEW ROOF, BONNET and then pull the dents out of the rest of the car. My problem is that the insurance co want to pull ALL the dents out when the repairer clearly thinks its not a good repair. Where do I stand? The repair is around 70% of the value of the car? Thanks for your help. Read more
If the cost go much over 70% of the value the Insurers will write the car off
hi all...was wondering if someone can give me some prices for VW Scirocco diesel GT 2.0 at Auction. prefer 2010 plate. I am thinking of going to BCA in coming weeks. Also can someone explain the buyers fee costs for car about 14-15k at BCA Auctions.
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Thanks for that...this is exactly what I needed. Depends on the day I suppose as well. Am looking at around max 15k all in. May have chance but more than likely only a 09 or 59. No 59 coming up though. Don't really want a 09.
Looks like this discussion got some interesting opinions...
Hey guys,
Any advice for the best place to look for a good second hand car? I'm trying to be economical, wanting something good value for money but not sure where to start looking! Preferably I'd like a Megane. I've been told Gumtree.com or Carhoots.com, but want to compare, where would you reccommend? How can I tell if its realiable or not?... Read more
Hi,
Auto trader or e bay and private sellers offer the lowest prices ,if you want a nearly new car, car supermarkets are often the best choice and best price .
The first thing to decide is how much to spend ,then what do you need from a car ,how big ,how economical ,how many miles a year will you drive .how much will it cost to tax and insure .if you have a part exchange do you want to sell it privately or part exchange it .
After you have decided all the practical issues ,it's down to personal choice ,ford ,Renault vw etc ,there are not many really bad cars made these days .
Finally , never buy a used car without an HPI report ,make sure that the report you buy or the dealer provides includes a finance check .
Tony g
For the past few days early in the morning, whenever i start my Golf when its dead cold, there is a grindy noise that comes from the engine. When i switch it off it appears to be coming from the fan. When I restart the car the noise is none existent for the rest of the day every time i start it. Ths only happens in the mornings. I changed my timing belt 12000km ago. What could this be? Read more


Thanks - very helpful. I wondered about that, but have to decide whether it's worth the expense...