Expert answer

Hi Garry,

Timing chains don't come with a scheduled change, as they are designed to last the life of the car so long as the engine is well-maintained. 

Expert answer

Hi Ciaran,

We've blanked out the reg online. With the registration plate we can only confirm the car's identity and type. To ascertain whether it has been used as a taxi or limo you'll need to do your own paid-for history check through http://www.cartell.ie - it's not very expensive and a wise investment.

Let us know how you get on.

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Hi James,

As discussed via email:

That generation Audi A6 is in general a reliable car, but not fault-free. Some owners have had no problems, while others have been plagued. The Multitronic transmission is not renowned for being the most trouble-free, though units made pre-2006 have the most problems. Also, the gearbox's fluid should be changed at 55,000 and 115,000 kilometres (or 35,000 and 75,000 miles) so the car you're looking at should have had two changes by now. Check that it has and then look in detail at how the gearbox works. Does the 'PRNDS' indicator on the dash flash? Is there hesitation? Is it easy to get reverse?

No matter what turbodiesel car you look at you'll hear of turbo problems from some owners. Most of the time it's likely to be due to poor oil maintenance. So check the car's service history in terms of oil changes and that the oil level itself is right. They do use a bit of oil.

While you're checking out the car in detail, make sure the air conditioning can produce freezing air in just a few minutes, as these have been known to fail.

I'm probably making this sound worse than it is! I'd buy an A6 for myself - it's a good car - you just need to know what you're looking for and not get caught out by one of the few badly maintained examples out there.

Let us know how you get on.

Expert answer

Hi Marc,

I spoke with Mercedes-Benz Ireland and it suggested talking to the parts department of your local dealer. Price should be in the region of €30.

Let us know how you get on

Expert answer

Hi George,

There is no timing belt in that car; it's a timing chain.

Hope that helps

Expert answer

Hi Shane,

This is a job for a really good auto electrician to find, but we do know that some Mercs have such an issue caused by a CD changer. The only way to stop it appears to be physically unplugging it from the car! Take the car to an auto electrician and tell them that and they may find a way to install a switch for it or to fix it properly...

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

Expert answer

Hi Patrick,

We assume you mean the latest Mercedes-Benz E 200 BlueEfficiency. With the seven-speed automatic gearbox this uses 6.5- to 6.9 litres/100km (43.4- to 40.9mpg) depending on the version. It's either Band C or D for tax (depending again on version), costing €330 or €481.

If you have a specific model in mind come back to us and we'll answer more precisely.

Expert answer

Hi Pat,

Another reader asked a very similar question, though for the Sport version. Our answer was:

"In general the new C-Class is proving quite reliable. There are a few known minor issues that should all be covered by a dealer for previous recalls so it's worth checking with a Mercedes-Benz dealer and the chassis number of the car you're looking at. These include software glitches for the automatic gearbox causing slow gearchanges. Make sure you get the spare key too, as these sometimes fail."

Hope that helps

Expert answer

Hi Christopher,

First things first: go for automatic. The fuel economy won't be as good, but there are far more on the market and the manual version retains the foot-operated parking brake, which is madness. It should return about 35mpg.

In general it's a reliable car, though check all electrics and if the gearbox is jerky walk away. Also listen out for suspension knocks. Insist on a full service history or find a car that has it.

Hope that all helps.