Dynamique 1.5 dCi 88 5dr Hatchback QS5

Superb Driving Position But Dual-Mass Flywheel Judder Starting Off

Quickshift robotised clutch works fairly well. At 8 years, 7 months old it hesitates to engage gear initially but fine once in auto mode. Engine strong and solid; quiet for a diesel. Changed gearbox oil: not a service item but improved driving (was low). Headlamp bulbs don't need removal of bumper and front -- good mechanics have a work-around. Electrics good. Steering light and easy. Diesel quite economical. Drum brakes on rear (1.6 petrol has discs). Oil filter access difficult. Not designed for maintenance, especially by owners or amateurs as a big black panel covers the engine bay except for oil filler, washer water and radiator top-up. Airconditioning condenser prone to stone damage and de-pressurisation -- fit a wire mesh behind lower grille to protect. Service belts on engine are inaccessible and very expensive to replace at 6 years or 72,000 miles -- easily half the car's value by then! Some owners don't bother but risk valve damage. Change oil and filter annually, change brake fluid every 4 years, avoid supermarket diesel. Reliable and friendly -- apart from the inherent DMF judder common to this diesel.

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