Expert answer

Hi James,

A solid 8 out of 10 I'd say. A really good family car, with lots of space, that's also good to drive. They're pretty solid on the reliability front too. Just watch for uneven front tyre wear, clogging diesel particulate filters and issues with the standard-fit electronic parking brake - it's usually just a faulty sender switch in the clutch mechanism though. Listen for clonking noises coming from the steering, watch for faulty seatbelt adjusters and beware of drooping rear electric windows.

Hope that helps

Expert answer

Hi Stephen,

Yes, they're pretty good actually. Mechanically, just keep an eye on the usual diesel particulate filter and make sure that the clutch engages and disengages cleanly and easily. The only other worry is over electrics. There were repeated wiring loom problems with early cars, so if any that you're looking at display even the slightest electrical gremlin, walk away.

Hope that helps

Expert answer

Hi Steve,

The official timing belt replacement interval for a 2009 Doblo is 120,000km or three years, whichever is soonest.

Expert answer

Hi Feena,

If you need actual space for seven full-sized adults (as opposed to jump seats for occasional use by small kids) then pretty much all of the medium-sized SUVs, such as the Opel Zafira, Peugeot 5008, Citroen C4 Picasso and Ford C-Max are out of the question. They're simply not big enough. You'll need, therefore, to trade up to a proper, full-size SUV and in that category there's simply nothing better than a Ford Galaxy. There's real space in the third row even for big people and while the 2.0-litre 140hp diesel engine is a bit juicy on tax (Band C) it's pretty good on overall fuel economy .

They're robustly made too, and while the Galaxy isn't on Ford's official Irish price list any more, a quick ring around the dealer network should easily turn up either a dealer demo model or a very young used car.

Let us know how you get on

Expert answer

Hi David,

It's interesting that the 1.6 petrol Focus of that generation was generally more reliable than the 1.6 diesel version - probably something to do with the petrol engine being older, dumber and simpler. Not that the 1.6 TDCi is especially bad, it's just sensitive to having the right grade and type of oil at major services, the exhaust gas recirculation valve in the turbo can give trouble and software issues can cause slow starting and misfires.

Hope that helps

Expert answer

Hi James,

The Nissan X-Trail has a timing chain, so should be virtually maintenance free.

Expert answer

Hi Brendan,

I would avoid the 1.4 CL as the engine is a touch underpowered and therefore both slow and thirsty. Go for the 1.2 HL. It's a turbo and a brilliant little engine, and should average about 45mpg if you're careful. A much better choice for low mileage drivers than a more expensive diesel, but your resale will suffer somewhat.

Expert answer

Hi Laura,

I'd say you should be getting around €10,000 to €11,000 on a trade-in, but don't be surprised if dealers try to low-ball you; it's kind of endemic given the state of the car market at the moment.

Let us know how you get on

Expert answer

Hi Richard,

It kind of depends on a couple of things. First of all, which Mondeo do you mean? Current or previous, petrol or diesel? And what are you using it for? Mostly urban, mostly motorway? Family and kids to haul around or just yourself?

Generally I would always say to go with the Mondeo, as it's such a fantastic and (yes) a 'complete' car.

Expert answer

Hi David,

It's actually a very good car, and as long as it has a full service history you shouldn't have too much to worry about. That 1.6 TDCi engine is robust, but just make sure that at each service it has been topped up with the correct grade and type of oil as it's a bit sensitive in that regard. The only regular weak point is the exhaust gas recirculation valve, which can give trouble. Any lack of power or sluggish acceleration is the giveaway. Loud? Not really. Of course, a petrol-engined version would be a touch quieter but the Focus is at least as refined as any of its main rivals. Of course, being a Focus, that means that there's lots around to choose from, so be picky and shop around until you find a really good one.