July 2017

VengaPete

Hi Folks

I have a 2001 Nissan Almera Tino (thats the MPV variant of an Almera hatchback for those that don't recognise it) 1.8 petrol manual gearbox and we have had it since 2004 (ex motability) and apart from a few early niggles and a crank sensor going recently its been remarkably dependable. Currently on 71,500 miles... Read more

badbusdriver

Quoted boot capacities can be decieving and even misleading, as apparently different manufacturers use different methods or tolereances. Also, a lot of modern cars have very deep boots, so the actual capacity gives a false impression of the boot size. Depending on what you want or need to put in there, a boot which is longer, wider, and shallower, but has less actual volume, may be more practical.

But i'm glad you and your wife are liking the car, which is the main thing!.

ACullen

Hi,

Apologies but I have genuinely trawled the internet and can't find an answer. Or any answer I can find is pre-digital motor tax so not relevant. ... Read more

RobJP

I suggest you'd be best speaking to a proper 'old-fashioned' insurance broker. They still exist, and, in my experience, are very good at dealing with 'less-than-ordinary' matters such as this.

Avant

So with more work coming in than I thought in semi-retirement (very pleasant - writing and examining, mostly done at home), there's money sitting in my savings account earning less than 1%. Just too tempting....still missing my old Z3 a little....so look at Cars for Sale on this site.

Given how impressive SWMBO's Audi A1 is, an A3 convertible? The 1.4 TSIs are too recent and too expensive. BMW? A 1-series is big enough, and there are some with the legendary straight-six. Not many about - and to this site's credit, only two more on Autotrader than on here. Mostly black, and mostly 135is with a turbo which could go wrong. A 125i cabrio is fast enough - and miraculously there's a silver one, with red leather, only an hour away from here, at Ferndown. Seven years old (10-registered), and just the right sort of mileage, 52,600, for just under £11,000, about the right price it seems compared with others on the market.... Read more

Avant

I am, Stanb!

Autotechnics in Gillingham has a good reputation round here. There are other Autotechnics in Dorset but I didn't think it was a national chain. But I'd be interested to know whether or not the Bosch name is a guarantee of high standards.

polywobblydriver

Can anyone recommend a older, reliable, small car with an automatic gearbox? The budget is roughly £1500. Needs to be auto because of mobility problems. Read more

SLO76

I'm surprised the Ford Focus isn't in SL076's list - there are loads available for less than £1000, some with low mileages. Our Xreg auto Focus is still going strong at 124,000m with no issues.

...

Colin Siddle

How do I program a new remote for my Saab. Read more

elekie&a/c doctor

Don't think you can ,unless you have the correct diagnostic equipment..

KCSRenault

Hello my

Elderly neighbour has a rover 214 hatchback, they have recently started driving it again after a period of barely any use. Unfortunately the wipers wont turn off unless you turn the car off or pull the fuse. ... Read more

elekie&a/c doctor

Locate the wiper motor,on the bulkhead,at back of engine bay.Check the contact plate on the front of the motor(where the wires enter)to make sure it has not come adrift.

My reg CR718NX

Would I be right to say that now Mercedes and Renault are in bed together the latter will bring down the quality and therefore satisfaction of the former? Already the continental press are saying and from the outset that this Mercedes W205 is a poor replacement for the W204. Read more

hissingsid

As a CX-3 owner I am not surprised that it scored poorly on practicality. The interior layout is an ergonomic disaster and the lack of space will not appeal to families, but space is not a major consideration for me as I rarely carry more than one passenger.

Good points include a smooth powerful 2.0 litre normally aspirated petrol engine returning 43-44 mpg, a proper torque converter automatic transmission and a proper handbrake. Apart from a leaking aircon condenser replaced under warranty (a common fault) the car has been 100% reliable so far.

Bad points include a rather too firm ride and relentless road noise from the Bridgestone Turanza tyres, even with the smaller 16 inch wheels. The Bridgestones will be replaced by Michelin Cross Climates in due course, as recommended by HJ. Read more

Marcus T.

well something that will do 60MPG for a start.

Question Aw169 - Advisor
scot22

A friend is interested in a 2010. Mercedes A class 33000 miles on clock. It's not a month ago had one advisory. Under tray fitting covering components. What does this mean please ? Read more

scot22

Thanks Gordon . Probably a good idea for him to take a mechanic with him in any case to check things over.