Expert answer

Hi Shay,

You've not told us which engine your car has, so we're going to assume it's the 1.6-litre petrol version. The change schedule is actually 160,000km, but no harm doing it early of course. 

As to the cost, I'm afraid that will vary depending on where you bring the car to have it done. The work should take no more than three hours. The auxiliary belts should be changed at the same time, so make sure you factor that into your costing.

Expert answer

Hi Derek and thanks for the question about the new Kuga,

Sadly, we won't be driving the new car until January so we can't give you much of an opinion as yet. It's bigger! Ford of Ireland has not released pricing either so we can't comment on how much value it is I'm afraid.

Keep an eye on the site at the end of next month for an update though.

Thanks and have a great Christmas.

Expert answer

Hi Sean,

I don't think you're asking for too much actually, so long as you don't mind a car that's a few years old. There's plenty of choice at that price point. You've not told us how big a car you need or how far you drive each year so we're keeping an open mind there, but only shortlisting diesel saloons and hatchbacks. Options include:

- Ford Fiesta 1.4 TDCi

- Ford Focus 1.8 TDCi

- Ford Mondeo 2.0 TDCi

- Nissan Note 1.5 dCi

- Peugeot 407 1.6 HDi (only if it has a full service history)

- Skoda Octavia 1.9 TDI

Come back to us if you need help narrowing things down further.

Expert answer

Hi Tom,

All Mondeo engines of that generation that would have been paired with the LX trim level used timing chains.

Expert answer

Hi Paul,

Do you mean the EcoBoost engine, versus the Astra’s 1.4 Turbo? It’s a very close match, especially if you’re looking at the current models. The Astra is exceptionally good to drive, and that 1.4 Turbo is a good engine too. The Focus’ EcoBoost three-cylinder engine is, theoretically, more economical, but it depends very much on how you drive it. The Focus’ chassis and steering responses are better than those of the Astra,  but then the Astra has the nicer interior. Depends where you priorities lie, really...

Read our Ford Focus reviews here

Read our Opel Astra reviews here

Expert answer

Hi Tom,

As the Volvo V50 is based on the Ford Focus it has proven to be quite reliable. The V50 was the subject of two recalls, including a potential fuel leak and an issue with the windscreen bonding. Ensure that any car you're considering has had those items seen to. Isolated issues with the parking brake and the electronic ignition key have been reported too, though you'll soon pick up on that during a test drive.

Owners report that the suspension and electrics give the most problems so test every switch and listen carefully for knocks in the suspension.

Hope that's of some help

Expert answer

Hi Clodagh,

We can't vouch for the quality of the products, but Mick's Garage has a good selection at http://www.micksgarage.com/interior-car-accessories/car-seat-covers/ford/s-max/

Halfords.ie has options too, but not for specific vehicles that we can see.

Hope that helps,

Expert answer

Hi F D,

As discussed via email, the dual-clutch transmissions are usually far more efficient, resulting in lower emissions and fuel consumption. They also offer a more 'engaging' driving experience if that's what the driver wants. However, they can also be jerkier to drive than an old-school automatic, so we'd always recommend buyers to drive both to form an opinion of their own.

Hope that helps with the buying decision.

Expert answer

Hi James,

It's not ideal to do this. It will change the outer circumference, which will alter your car's gearing and put the speedo out. It's not by a huge amount admittedly, but generally not recommended.

Hope that helps

Expert answer

Hi Mark,

Merc mechanicals from that era are generally sound. Rust, however, can be a big issue. Get the bodywork checked over thoroughly, as well as the chassis rails at the back. Look under the boot carpets etc.

We put your question to Lizzie Pope, the editor of Mercedes Enthusiast magazine and she echoed our views:

"Finding a good car in the first place can be a real issue; these are, sadly, very much on the wane.  Classic specialists might be your best bet, although, of course, you'll pay for it in the price.  But that is probably the best chance of buying a solid, useable and, possibly, appreciating classic.

We'd say that it is best to avoid cars that need a lot of work - unless you have a clear (and, crucially, realistic) view of what needs to be done and what it will set you back, because, generally, the cost of the work will be much more than the car is worth.  Steer clear of cars with rusty wheelarches and jacking points, rust on the the rear chassis legs and rust around the sunroof frame.  As ever, buy the best you can afford, taking condition and provenance above colour and spec."

Hope that helps