Expert answer

Hi Maria,

The simple reason for Merivas being worth less is that they're just not as in demand as the mechanically similar Corsa. The Corsa has always been popular with learner drivers and first time car owners so its values hold up. The Meriva, as a compact MPV, just isn't as popular so its prices are softer.

As for reliability, like all Opels it's decently well made, but being a mass-market car, there are issues. The most serious of which is a persistent power steering failure, which prompted a recall, so make sure any car you're looking at has had that done. Other than that, watch for fuzzy engine management systems, broken turbos on the diesel models, fragile cabin trim and timing chains that need too much attention at low mileages.

Hope that all helps

Expert answer

Hi Norman,

Your best bet is your local Audi dealer. Manuals aren't usually too expensive. If it is too expensive perhaps search for it on eBay or similar.

Let us know how you get on.

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Hi Dan,

Indeed so. In fact, the CR-V changed utterly in 2002 with the introduction of an all-new model - and the first diesel version was introduced in 2003. Despite it looking rather similar to the first generation model (which debuted in 1995) the second-gen CR-V is bigger, heavier, more spacious and more sophisticated, even if it did retain the old-style spare wheel mounting on the tailgate. 

Early 2.2 CDTi diesel models have an odd fault - the oil warning light can come on even with a full sump of the black stuff. It seems to be a software issue. Listen for groaning or moaning from the rear differential for the four-wheel drive system (all second-gen CR-Vs were had four-wheel drive) as that can mean that the oil in the diff has degraded and the unit is starting to fail.

Other than that, they're solidly built and heartily recommended. 

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Hi Keith,

No, it's not a waste of time at all. It's almost always better value to keep and fix an existing car rather than pay the cost-of-change to upgrade to something newer. That said, if you're convinced you need a better solution, then you won't do better than to go for one of the many car-vans on offer now. The Renault Kangoo and Citroen Berlingo are the best known versions, but there are also similar models available from Fiat, Volkswagen and Peugeot.  My personal pick would be the Fiat Doblo, fitted with the 1.6- or 1.3-litre MultiJet diesel engines. You'll find the cabin surprisingly comfy, it's quite pleasant to drive, very economical and good on tax and massively spacious in the back. There's even a seven-seat version available if you want to be really popular at the school gate.

Expert answer

Hi Liam,

Wow, you're 24 and thinking of a Honda Accord? I thought all you young 'uns wanted Citroen Saxos or Civics? Well, frankly, I don't think I can recommend a better car than the Accord. They're comfy, refined, spacious and utterly reliable. Just watch the insurance rating as the smallest possible engine is 1.8-litre and that could really crank up your premium.

Again, the Lexus IS is a good choice with solid reliability and a playful rear-drive chassis thrown into the bargain. €15,000 gets you into the current model (just about to be replaced actually) easily enough, and the 2.2-litre diesel engine is the one to go for - it's punchy and frugal.

Let us know if you'd like other suggestions.

Expert answer

Hi Cathy,

The Eos is a nice car, right enough, but a bit thin on the ground here in Ireland. You may need to widen your search to the UK if you're going to find one you like.

That budget should give you a pretty good spread of possible purchases though. How about a BMW 318Ci convertible? Classy, practical and cool, we found one on Carzone.ie for €12,950. If you fancy something a bit smaller, there are a few MINI Cooper Convertibles knocking around at similar money. The MINI is not as practical as the Peugeot 207 CC you've suggested, but it is more fun to drive. Then again, the 207 does have that desirable folding steel roof.

But if you're really sold on the Eos, Karmann Volkswagen dealers in Dublin, on the Naas road, currently have one up for €12,950 with the 1.6 FSI petrol engine. Snap it up if you want it...

Let us know how you get on

Expert answer

Hi Mary,

Expert answer

Hi Piotr,

The XC90 is perennially popular, but as you say this one has a big petrol engine (normally a no-no) and it’s a 14-year-old car now. I’d say it would be worth about €2,000 on a trade-in. Maybe a little more if the dealer has someone looking for something similar. 

Expert answer

Hi Lisa,

With the help of SIMI we've found that the value should be €69,455 to help with your BIK calculations.

Hope that helps

Expert answer

Hi John,

Well, far be it from us to slag anyone’s car off, but that does smell a bit fishy. Have you done a history check on the car with Cartell.ie? Or checked out the mileage? That 2.2-litre engine can develop the most appalling overheating issues, which can banjax the entire cylinder head, so tread cautiously and try and find out how much work has (or hasn’t) been done.