Expert answer

Hi John,

It should be changed at least every 210,000km, regardless of time. 

Expert answer

Hi Silvester,

We have got so many questions from readers about non-functioning stop-start systems (from all makes and models) that we put together this guide to help you get to the bottom of it:

Why won't my car's stop-start system work?

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Hi George,

Technically speaking, it should not, as, before a tester does the exhaust smoke test, they should, according to the NCT manual, check 'visually that the emission control system is complete and properly connected.' Saying that, it's unlikely that many testers will notice that the DPF is missing and, so long as the DPF warning light is not illuminated, there's no reason for them to be suspicious.

In short, it shouldn't pass and contravenes the law on emission of pollutants, but it is unlikely to be picked up by an NCT test centre.

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Hi Des,

It depends entirely on your priorities. If you favour style and badge appeal, go for the Golf. There are few better cars. If you're a practical type, get the Octavia as it has significantly more rear seat and boot space than the Golf and is more or less identical to drive. 

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Hi John,

Yup, a small diesel sounds like it should be ideal for you. Depending on what kind or size of car you need I'd recommend either a MINI Cooper D 1.6 (small and sporty), Opel Astra 1.3 CDTi (slower, but more spacious), Toyota Auris 1.4 D-4D (similar to Opel but probably more reliable) or that old favourite the Volkswagen Golf 1.6 TDI BlueMotion (ultra economical). Or, if you need more space how about a Skoda Octavia Combi estate 1.6 TDI or a Citroen C4 Picasso 1.6 HDi?

Help us with your needs and we'll narrow that down a little!

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Hi Phil,

"Most economical" is something of a loaded question as it's really much more dependant on your style of driving and the routes you use as much as anything else. 

What I can tell you though is the car in that class I've been able, consistently, to get the best economy from. It's a Golf. To be precise, it's the Mk VI Volkswagen Golf 1.6 TDI BlueMotion. Test driving it on a warm, sunny day with the air conditioning going and not paying a huge amount of attention to being economical, I managed an average of 65mpg. I haven't yet driven the latest Mk VII Golf BlueMotion but would suspect you could do even better again, possibly as good as 70mpg.

Come back to us if you need more assistance choosing.

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Hi Aidan,

I'd suggest either a Ford Focus 1.6 TDCi, a Volkswagen Golf 1.6 TDI or a Kia cee'd 1.6 CRDi. All of them fall into your price bracket, all are well built, reliable and economical and all are comfy for a lengthy daily commute. You won't go wrong with any of them and there are plenty of each available so shop around and be choosy.

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Hi Declan,

Well, obviously the 2.0-litre is more powerful, and with 150hp compared to the Golf 1.6 TDI’s 120hp, quite a bit more so. Lots more torque too, which makes driving much more effortless. There’s not a huge penalty in terms of fuel economy or emissions either, so you’re not going to have to shell out masses of extra cash in terms of running costs, and the 2.0-litre is more refined and smoother than the 1.6.

Is there any point to buying the 1.6 then? Yes — it’ll be cheaper to insure, and easier to sell on as most private buyers will shun the bigger engine.

Expert answer

Hi Martina, 

My feeling is that you will be offered between €10,000 - €11,000 for your Auris against either of these new cars and it's likely that your Lexus dealer will offer you the better deal. The Audi A3 is nearing the end of its life cycle, and while I like it a lot, it is due to be replaced so that will mean its value will reduce. The Lexus is really well priced and comes well equipped, but the ride quality is a little patchy at times. The S Design grade has 16-inch alloys so they aren't even the largest alloy wheel available. The car is great value though.

By the sounds of things you want something that is frugal, looks good and is upmarket. To be honest, I would probably have a Volkswagen Golf 1.6 TDI DSG Edition-R, which has all the toys on it, looks awesome and has just been released on to the market. This costs €26,425. 

Alternatively, you could get a good deal on a BMW 1 Series, which is about to be replaced. Let us know if this helps, but I'd choose the Golf, then the Lexus, then the A3.