CompleteCar

Ask Us Anything

Read answers from CompleteCar.ie motoring experts to readers’ car questions.

From our motoring experts

Latest answered questions

Browse previous answers from the CompleteCar.ie editorial team.

Will my Japanese import cost a lot for NOx?

I have a three-cylinder 0.6-litre petrol 'kei car' coming from Japan that was never sold in Europe. Will this be hit with the max fine of €600 NOx charge as there is no NOx reading available, or is there anything that can be done to avoid paying this crazy charge when it should only be a a few Euro for an engine so small?

What can I expense of my hired van?

Hi,

I am a VAT-registered sole trader courier and am thinking of hiring a van as opposed to buying one. The rental payments through Northgate will be €715.00 per month plus VAT over three years at which time I give the van back, walk away or take another van. In addition to claiming back the VAT on the monthly hire cost, can I set the remaining hire cost against my profits as a deductible expense before working out my personal tax (income tax, USC, PRSI, etc) liabilities? I assume I cannot charge depreciation to the business or avail of any capital allowances as I do not own the van?

Should I buy a BMW 220d Gran Coupe?

Hi,

I'm thinking of buying the new BMW 220d Gran Coupe; am I mad buying a car with such a niche market? Are insurance companies likely to hammer me premium wise? I'm 61 with a completely clear record. How would the resale value be?

I enjoy your articles and would appreciate your views.

Many thanks

Pat Hagen, Dublin

I'm missing paperwork to VRT my import...

Went to do VRT on Saturday and it wasn't done as first page was missing, not given by car dealer. Just rang but he said that was all he had, but is looking into it. I'm a bit panicked as only have two weeks until 30 days is up; is there anything we can do?

Thanks.

Is now the right time to go electric for me?

I'm currently driving up to 25,000km per year. Mostly motorway commuting, approx 90km daily, Mon-Fri. I'm upgrading my 2013 Hyundai ix35 diesel with 93,000 miles. I'd love to go electric and I'm sure I could manage it by charging every night, but I'm not sure if it's the right time to make the move. Should I take the plunge or go with another diesel?

Thanks!