October 2021

Neil Pat

Total newbie to posting here, but I love reading the threads so I figured I'd give it a go.
I have a bit of a conundrum. We are in the market for a car. It will mainly be used for the school run and the odd longer journey at the weekend (max 20 miles). We probably do 5000 miles a year. I have a large dog so an estate is a must for me.
I have spotted a PHEV 2018 Passat with 70k on the clock in budget. As it has a list price of over 40k it qualifies for the extra tax, however I think I could offset that by saving on fuel during most of its use.
I have also spotted a 2016 2L petrol A4 Avant with 25k miles which I love - but for some reason I feel it is not the sensible choice.

If we keep the car for 3 or 4 years, I feel it will be easier to sell the Audi and it will hold its value better but then again, PHEVs seem to be getting more popular so I have just been going round in circles.

Does anyone have any advice?
Thanks! Read more

Falkirk Bairn

If I were to be buying a hybrid /PHEV that was 2/3 years old I would err on the side of caution.

The makes with a batting history and made a success of the new technologies are Toyota & Lexus, then possibly Honda. Too many manufacturers have bought in battery technology and bolted it on to what were existing engines, gearboxes etc etc...

sargan

I need to change Rear Disc & pads on my Kodiaq.

Found good videos on steps (as it has EPB)... Read more

elekie&a/c doctor

Quality pads will come with new calliper fixing bolts. You may not need to remove the carrier to replace the discs . If you do , then make sure you have adequate tools to do the job . The bolts are very tight . You will need some diagnostic kit to put the epb in service mode . Carrier bolts and disc screws , if needed , will need to be bought separately.

_

MG

car sales sept 2020 5,452? units ?... Read more

daveyK_UK

If only they did a decent finance package on the electric MG5 compared with hybrid rivals

A friend was tempted by a MG5 estate but went with a Corolla hybrid as Toyota offered it on 0%, has better value retention, lower monthly fee, in stock and all round a better car and solution (hybrid preferable to fully electric for his usage).

Zippy123

We purchased SWMBO’s Nissan Note as a pre-reg in March 16 (a down size from a Touran). The car cost £10k and I think inflation will add at least £5k to a modern equivalent. (So looking to spend about £15k maximum).

It’s now feeling a little old though only 20k miles, it’s time to change it whist it’s still worth about £5k.

For a small car it’s well specified and roomy. The sliding rear bench is a good idea as well.

What would the forum recommend for a replacement about the same size and practicality?

Ta Read more

VengaPete

Late model Kia Venga or Hyundai ix20. Basically the same car with a different interior. the ix20 rides softer if that's a factor to consider. Similar size to a Note.

Super reliable in pretty much all engines and gearboxes. High driving position a bit like the Note....

Engineer Andy

There IS NOT a fuel shortage. There is a HGV driver shortage, which initially caused a few problems in certain parts of the country for certain suppliers, but apparently a road haulage lobby group leaked this to the media, who then hyped up this a 'nationwide fuel shoratges' which then encouraged people to panic buy. Thanks, MSM. Read more

hissingsid

The media will never let the facts get in the way of what they see as a good story, but at least the m****s who believed them will not be returning to the forecourts until they have used the fuel which they panic bought. Do they know that E10 has a very limited shelf life?

wantstolearn

Spent a lot of time trying to find most recent version. Any suggestions ? Read more

Bilboman

I assume the new version will feature a new rule against consulting the online version of the Highway Code whilst driving... :-)

Forum Cat B Van
Rog46

Hi I have a standard driving license, Can i drive a luton van.

... Read more

bathtub tom

Single carriageway roads are 50mph, dual carriageways are 60mph, but motorways still 70mph.

Seems to be enforced very rarely....

daveyK_UK

Which insurance firms still offer cover to drive another car 3rd party?

It came as a great surprise when reading the small print on my insurance renewal it is no longer included.

Read more

Falkirk Bairn

AA explanation of car insurance

What is third party insurance?

Third party cover is the most basic form of car insurance and is the legal minimum requirement for drivers. As the name suggests, it just covers injuries or damage to third parties:...

sammy1

I am reading today that the authorities are working on a device to disable the motor on EVs in order to catch the criminal fraternity who are increasing using EVs to commit crime. Can you imagine a thief frantically scooting along in the traditional way of using his feet!

The same technology could presumably disable the electric motor on your Tesla or any other EV when being chased by the police Read more

Engineer Andy

as far as I can see the police have a total blind spot for illegally used electric scooters. I saw a near miss between an OAP walking out of her garden gate and a "youth" doing 30mph on the pavement just down the road from my house. I'm in a quiet town and I see them going wooosh up the street all the time. In cities the problem is out of control

Not just 'yoofs' - a local middle-aged woman who works at Tesco rides back and forth to work on the pacement at high speed on one in my area. I often see almost as many train commuters using them now (instead of Brompton bikes) as yoofs....

wantstolearn

Does having headlights on auto all the time take extra from the battery ?

What key things should I be aware of to avoid draining the battery ?... Read more

wantstolearn

Thanks for your prompt and clear reply. I appreciate someone knowledgeable like. you sharing with novices like me.