How do I change a camshaft sensor?
Is it easy to change a camshaft sensor in a 2004 SEAT Leon 1.4? If so how do I go about it?
Robert McSweeney (Cork)May 2010 Filed under: servicing
Expert answer
Camshaft sensors in most cars are really easy to change, though as with all things under the bonnet we'd always recommend that you bring your car to an expert unless you know what you are doing.
In most cases this work would take 10-15 minutes.
Without the car in front of me, or a workshop manual, I would hesitate to give you more precise instructions, but usually the sensor is held on by just one or two bolts and an electrical connector.
Assuming that is the case, remove the bolts and connector and reverse the procedure for the replacement sensor. Be careful that you do not damage the new sensor.
You should be aware that some cars may need their on-board computer (the Engine Control Unit - or ECU) reset following this operation. Ideally this would be done by a main dealer or garage with the correct equipment.
What has lead you to diagnose a problem with the sensor? (You can reply in the comment box below)
Seven-seater without the boredom?
We have a little toddler and recently welcomed twins into our lives and while three children isn't a big family we now find that we need a seven-seater because of the baby seats. I hate the idea of a people carrier but I do need something with enough space for the little ones and all the luggage that comes with them. Is there any seven-seat car that's practical but not boring?
Julia Lenihan (Kilkenny)May 2010 Filed under: family car
Expert answer
Hi Julia. Well firstly, congratulations on your new arrivals. With two new babies in your family your car needs will have definitely changed. A friend of mine recently was in the same situation as you and asked me the very same question. They couldn't really cope with a standard five-seater car anymore but by the same token, dreaded the thoughts of getting into an MPV. They felt that by buying one that they had given up on driving something 'exciting and cool' and you can understand that. Even the most modern MPVs can be a little van-like. So, we would steer you in the direction of the Nissan Qashqai+2, which is the 7-seater version of the Qashqai. A 1.5-litre diesel version with 2-wheel drive will cost you €30,450, or if you prefer you could get into a good used version for about €25,000 (2009).
This car will be cheap to run, with low road tax of €156 per year and evidence suggests they are reliable and holding their value too. Please come back to us if you need any more help, but we think this is the right choice for your needs.
What car would you recommend to replace my Passat?
I'm in the market for a new car. I drive a Passat at the moment and can't imagine I will have any problem selling it on as it's a diesel with a service record. Some one told me that SEAT has a new car coming out similar to the Passat or Skoda Superb. Can you tell me if they are any good?
Derek O'Mahony (Galway)May 2010 Filed under: choosing new car
Expert answer
Firstly, trading in your car won't be a problem at all if you are bringing the car in against a new model, but you might not get as much for your car as you would have first expected. Selling it privately can be a little trickier these days too as buyers are harder to find because of the lack of available finance, quite simply.
Now, in terms of the car, the SEAT that you are talking about is probably the Exeo, which hasn't been on the market too long. It is a nice car, basically a rebadged previous-generation Audi A4. You have a choice of 1.6- and 2.0-litre petrol or a 2.0-litre diesel. Prices start at €26,690. Go to www.seat.ie for the latest line-up and pricing.