Expert answer

Hi Clare,

Stop-start systems are a source of annoyance for a lot of people. We get so many queries about them that we wrote this feature you may want to read: Why won't my car's stop-start system work?

Saying all that, the point of a stop-start system is to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, so it's seriously pointless to go on a drive specifically to charge up the battery to make it work. It could be that your battery needs to be replaced completely.

Expert answer

Hi Dave,

There is no recommended way to deactivate the stop-start system permanently. If you turn it off using the button in the car, it will always come back on next time you start the car. 

Have you read our Why won't my car's stop-start system work? feature to try to get to the bottom of the issue?

Expert answer

Hi Razanne,

If this is the diesel version, it's possible that the issue has nothing to do with the stop-start system at all, as its engine is known to develop problems with the fuel injectors that could lead to poor running and stalling.

Otherwise, all we can suggest is that you read our Why won't my car's stop-start system work? feature to see if anything helps - and persevere with your mechanic to get to the bottom of the issue. An auto-electrician might be worth visiting, too.

Expert answer

Hi David,

Short answer, yes — the Discovery would be far, far more refined and comfortable than most pick-ups. That said, pick-ups are improving all the time, and models such as the VW Amarok are starting to get into the same ballpark as cars like the Discovery when it comes to comfort and quietness. They’ve still a little way to go yet, though.

Expert answer

Hi Bepin,

There are many reasons why a car's stop-start system will not work. And we get so many queries about it that we've put together this Why won't my car's stop-start system work? feature.

Give it a read and if you're still not convinced, then bring your car along to a good mechanic to have it diagnosed.

Expert answer

Hi Robert,

Yes, it’s a very solid shortlist, although obviously we can’t comment either way on the Tiguan plug-in hybrid as we’ve not driven one yet. As for the Honda and the Toyota, the Honda is roomier and rather more engaging to drive (better for all those twisty roads) so is probably the one we’d go for. The new RAV4 is well worth looking at, though, and it has impressive performance, so it’s good for all that overtaking. Links to our reviews below:

Honda CR-V Hybrid review

Toyota RAV4 Hybrid review

Expert answer

Hi Philip,

Well, there’s a lot of ground to cover there… Yes, the 1.6 engine in the XV is a touch gutless. In fact, it’s very gutless and its fuel consumption suffers dreadfully as a result. A 2.0-litre XV is actually more frugal in day-to-day driving, to be honest, simply because you’re not having to rev it so hard and so much.

As for the CVT, we doubt that there would be any serious issues in the longer term. I’m sure the guy on YouTube means well, but just check out how many older Toyota Prius models are still happily running around with their CVTs — that should give you some idea of how solid they are. Yes, there has been a recent recall, but one recall on some specific cars doesn’t mean that there’s a major issue with all such equipment.

Expert answer

Hi Chris,

The answer here is Skoda Superb. Nothing else, at least nothing else affordable, has the sort of rear legroom to truly allow a very tall driver to get comfy in front of a rear-facing infant seat, and the Superb has the kind of massive boot that every parent of two growing kids will truly need. They’re not expensive, either — go for the second-generation or later model (which first launched in 2009, although the current version, launched in 2015 is nicer still) and you’ll be onto a winner, just make sure to get one with a full and comprehensive history and make sure that it’s not been previously used as a taxi (many have). Even better — get the Combi estate for maximum practicality. 

Read our Skoda Superb reviews for more

Expert answer

Hi Michael,

If that is your issue, it's not as big a job as on some cars, so it should take no more than four hours. Any decent mechanic will be able to do the work, but the price will vary considerably depending on where you get it done, so perhaps shop around.

Expert answer

Hi Fintan,

At the moment we don’t have a set date for when the Model 3 will arrive in Ireland, as the first European deliveries are all left-hand-drive cars. We expect that it will be early 2020 before the first Irish deliveries are due to start. If you’re keen to get one early on we recommend contacting Tesla (in Sandyford, Dublin) to discus order placement. You can currently reserve a Model 3 through Tesla’s own website, too. Initially, all-wheel-drive, long range versions will be offered, which we expect to cost between €60,000 and €70,000 depending on specification, but in time the cheaper standard range car should become available in Europe. 

In the meantime, check out our review of the Model 3 here.