How can I compare all the electric cars?
Hi,
Is there anywhere one can see all currently available electric cars compared, not just under the usual headings of driving range, charging times, 0 to 100km/h time and overall drivability and practicality, but also the overall running costs (electricity charges, road tax etc.), which can vary when you include battery lease models like the Renault Zoe?
Donal M
Donal Murphy (Cork)Apr 2016 Filed under: electric cars
Expert answer
Hi Donal,
Short answer – no. That’s partially down to the fact that such in-depth comparisons have to take into account the type of mileage you do, the electricity tariff you’re on and more. The best I can suggest is that you have a good long look through our various electric car reviews and then use the cost calculators on both the ESB and SEAI websites to further refine your research:
Are electric cars a real option now?
Are electric cars a real option now? Looking to purchase a second hand car 2012 upwards. What do you think?
Paul Mccabe (Kilkenny)Jan 2016 Filed under: electric cars
Expert answer
Hi Paul,
Yes, and no. And a bit yes. It still depends on your lifestyle and driving habits. Lots of short journeys, mostly around town? Don't mind taking the time to plan long journeys carefully and be prepared to take breaks for charge ups?
Things are getting dramatically better though. Nissan has just updated the Leaf with a new 30kwh battery (read our review of it here) that extends its range to around 250km, which is a lot more useful, and if you're suitably loaded a Tesla Model S can go for 500km between charges.
If you're not quite ready to take the full electric car plunge, how about a plugin hybrid? Short hops under electric power with a petrol engine for longer journeys. Try the Volkswagen Golf GTE, Audi A3 e-tron, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV or a Volvo XC90 T8.
However, if you're looking for a second hand car, your options with electric power are severely limited, as sales have been slow so far.
Why is my Honda Accord's SRS light on?
The SRS light is staying on after replacing battery in a 2001 Honda Accord, 2001. Any ideas?
Christy
Christy Neary (Kilkenny)Nov 2015 Filed under: fault
Expert answer
Hi Christy,
First simple thing to try is to disconnect the battery for a few hours. If you still have the issue then bring the car to a decent mechanic for a check. It's likely they'll have to plug it into a diagnostic machine to reset the ECU.
Do I need to change my Mondeo's timing belt?
Hi,
Our 2007 Ford Mondeo 2007 just passed its NCT, had a service, got a new battery etc. Just wondering (as I do not have a notion!) when I may need to get timing belt replaced? Seen a similar reply on a Mondeo but unsure if it is the same with our 07 saloon model.
Thanks,
Karen
KAREN MARIA O'MALLEY (DUBLIN 13)Oct 2015 Filed under: servicing
Expert answer
Hi Karen,
You've not mentioned the engine size, but assuming it's either the 1.8- or 2.2-litre TDCi diesel then the timing belt should be changed every 125,000 miles (just over 200,000km) or every 10 years.
Can I convert a Toyota Prius to LPG?
Hi,
Can you please tell me where the battery is in the 2013 Toyota Prius? Is there space to put an LPG tank in the spare wheel well?
DILEEP KUMAR (DUBLIN)Jul 2015 Filed under: hybrid
Expert answer
Hi Dileep,
The battery is in the boot.
We asked Toyota about using the spare wheel area for an LPG tank, but it declined to comment, suggesting that to modify the Prius in that way would invalidate its warranty.
Why won't my Ford Focus start?
Hi,
I'm having a problem starting my Ford Focus TDCi 1.8. It won't turn over, yet I have all electrical power on my dashboard. Had problem with this some weeks ago and had heater plugs replaced with new ones, which seemed to cure the problem for a week or so but a slow degradation in starting on mornings over the weeks and now nothing. Is this going to be a costly diagnosis?
Thanks in advance.
Stephen Blower (Barnsley)Jun 2015 Filed under: electrics
Expert answer
Hi Stephen,
If it won't turn over at all it sounds like the battery is flat (it takes a lot more charge to turn the engine than to light up the dashboard) or the starting motor has stopped working. As you mentioned slow degradation I'd suspect the battery, and perhaps the alternator isn't working to full efficiency. Best bet is to get a good mechanic or auto electrician to sort it out.
I can't open my Opel Insignia's boot...
Battery went dead on my Open Insignia and I cannot open the boot manually. Is there a setting or fuse that might be the problem? The key fob only does the central locking...
Paul Obrien (Kilkenny)Jun 2015 Filed under: fault
Expert answer
Hi Paul,
We’ve been on to Opel Ireland about this and they suggest that the best thing to do is to visit your local dealer who will be able to troubleshoot the problem for you.
Why won't my Opel Astra start?
I have a 2005 Opel Astra. Car won't start. Turn the key and nothing. All ignition lights on. Battery 100%. Any suggestions?
Paul Monaghan (Tullamore )May 2015 Filed under: fault
Expert answer
Hi Paul,
This is a difficult thing to assess from afar I'm afraid so you're going to have to get a good mechanic to look at it. Assuming the starting motor isn't turning, it could be an issue with the wiring (bad earth) or with the starter itself, or even an issue with the key being used - it must be correctly coded to the car.
Why won't my Skoda Octavia petrol restart?
My 2004 Skoda Octavia petrol engine died and would not restart. It has a good battery. Any ideas?
Terry Coogan (Dublin)Apr 2015 Filed under: fault
Expert answer
Hi Terry,
It's very difficult to assess such an issue from afar I'm afraid. Is the engine turning over (i.e. the starting motor is fine)? Is there fuel in the tank? Is the fuel pump in the tank working? Is there spark? Has a sensor failed and there's an electronic problem?
You'll have to bring the car to a mechanic I'm afraid. Best of luck with it.
What is the market value of a 2007 Volkswagen Passat?
What is the market value of a 2007 Volkswagen Passat, 165,000km, 1.9 TDI. two years' NCT, full service history, four new tyres, new battery?
Niall O'keeffe (Nenagh)Apr 2015 Filed under: used car values
Expert answer
Hi Niall,
Probably around €8k retail or €6,500 - €7,000 as a trade-in.