Purchased my C5 Nov 2013 £4,500 - 76,000 miles. Dec 2013 replaced Turbo £2,600 (main dealer). MOT in May 2014 £750 (local garage), Serviced Aug 2014 £350, Nov 2014 Engine ceased and car written off. The reason for the engine ceasing is likely, but unconfirmed, unless I pay a mechanic to inspect at my expense, due to a problem with the turbo. Prior to the turbo outlet pipe bursting off, travelling at 40 mph, the car started sounding like a tractor with a loud clicking from the turbo, intermitent smoke on acceleration from the exhaust and reduction in acceleration. 100,000 miles. The breakdown mechanic looked at the engine. He stated in his opinion the turbo did not look new. The car is now at the main dealer, I have an appointment to test drive a Citreon Berlingo and Renualt Kangoo on Monday.

My quandry - Would you?

A: Put it down to a bad year. Leave the car with the dealer and purchase a small van or another estate car from the dealer. Provided the deal was right?

B: Retrieve the car. Investigate the cause of the failure (at my expense) with a view to make a claim against the servicing garage (the main deailer) to recoup some money? (Obviously this can only happen if negligence can be proved and will cause agravation for me).

C: Retrieve the car, purchase a reconditioned engine and find an inexpensive mechanic (if there is such a person) to replace the engine?

D: Scrap the car myself, and purchase an alternative vehicle?

I am self employed, it will be my only vehicle, need space for transportation, occasional family transport (kids at uni), have no access to a 'mate' who knows cars. What would you recommend for a recplacement? I am undecided if a small van or estate car is best for me. I have only around £4,000 so whatever I buy is likely to need a mechanic at some point, so something that is good value on parts and repair.

Fingers crossed for informed replies. x