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.

Which used SUV for up to €40,000, maybe PHEV?

Hi there,

I have a budget of up to €40,000 to invest in a mid-size used SUV. I live in rural Mayo and drive easily 200-300km per week. My kids are nearly 6 and 4 and I'm entering the era of ferrying kids to activities all the time and looking for something that will get me through the next 8 to 10 years.

I'd prefer something that is reliable, has good storage and will comfortably get us around. I've been going back and forth on whether to get a five- or seven-seat vehicle (we frequently host visitors, so it would be nice to have the option to have a child sit in a third row - but I also don't want to drive a bus).

I would like to have something that's at least hybrid as we can have a home charging point installed easily, I'm mindful of running costs and the environment.

I like the looks of Volvos, Kias, Audis, Hyundais and Range Rovers; not so much Skodas.

Thank you so much for your advice!

How much tax should I be paying on my Opel Vivaro?

I bought a 2021 Opel Vivaro 1.5 diesel. I'm changing it to private use as I'm 60 this year and retired. I found that it costs €302 on an official gov.ie website and took a photo of all the rates based on pre-2008 table. My local motor tax office in Tullamore is quoting €413 but that's based on the private car table.

Can you help please?

Looking to bring in a Lotus Elan through the North...

Hi,

I need advice please on importing a 1991 Lotus Elan to Southern Ireland using an intermediary address in Bangor N Ireland.

I heard that the Windsor Agreement permits a car to come into NI for a few months to be insured and MOT'd there and after a few months brought into to South of Ireland avoiding VAT providing there is proof of use there, ie petrol receipts. Is this correct?