Expert answer

Hi Martin,

I'd say around €18-19,000.

Expert answer

Hi Paddy,

Actually, yes it is. There are very few reported regular problems (unlike the first generation Citroen C5) and the only areas you really have to watch for are suspension issues (listen for clionking noises or look for smooth operation from the rare optional hydragas suspension) and electrics (lots of buttons inside - make sure they all work flawlessly). The best engine is probably the 1.6 HDi diesel. It's not quick by any standard, but the relaxed, comfy nature of the C5 matches up well with it, and 55mpg isn't to be sniffed at. Make sure it has a full service history and ensure that the right grade of engine oil has been used at each change - that 1.6 HDi can be sensitive to incorrect lube.

Hope that helps

Expert answer

Hi Helen,

Well, obviously, the 207 is a newer and more sophisticated car than the 206, and I reckon you'll find it to be a much more comfortable drive (better seats, especially) than the older 206. That said, the 207 is much, much heavier and the 206 always felt much more fleet of foot and more enjoyable to drive.

The 206 has something of a reputation for unreliability, but the upside is that most of its problems are of the minor, electrical variety. The engines and gearboxes are long-lived and robust,  although if you're buying a heaver diesel model, look for excessive wear and tear on the front suspension and brakes.

The 207 has a couple of recurrent niggles as well, the most important of which is the engine's anti-polution monitor, which can go haywire and cause the engine to switch into limp-home mode. Beware also of diesel models that don't quieten down when they're warmed through; check for suspension failure, especially at the front; and as ever beware of electrical gremlins. Make sure every button works properly.

Expert answer

Hi Vinny,

Hmmm. Yes and no. Land Rover quality control has come on in leaps and bounds in recent years, and the Disco 3 was one of the first cars to benefit from a new, higher quality regime. Mostly, they're well built and reliable, but a few 'rogue' cars still seem to slip through the net. The main fault is with the air suspension system, and the air compressor that pumps it up, which can fail, so make sure that the car rises and lowers as it should. Earlier cars had a lot of minor electrical glitches - everything from Bluetooth phone hookups to stereos to the electronic handbrake, but most of these should have been ironed out by now.

Expert answer

Hi Una,

A good, solid car the 1 Series, but there are a few issues to look for. Watch for front tracking problems or even problems with the steering rack itself - excessive front tyre wear is the giveaway. All 1 Series gearboxes feel a bit stiff but one that's especially obstructive could be on the way out. Electric windows can seize (thankfully usually in the shut position) and airbag faults are common, but there'll be a dash warning light for those. Make sure that the traction control is working too, as it can fail and shut down entirely. There were a few recalls, for rear axle problems, seatbelt and pre tensioner issues and for the brake booster so make sure the work has already been done by checking with a dealer.

And for an import, we'd urge you pay for a Cartell.ie history check.

Hope that all helps

Expert answer

Hi Mark,

I'm afraid the news is not great. The Alfa 156 was a cracking car when new, but age has not been kind to them and they suffer significant issues with worn and broken suspension and axles, and the electronics and engines can play merry hell too. If the car has been exceptionally well cared for and looked after, then it might be worth a punt, but if you detect even the slightest signs of abuse or lack of care, walk away. A full service history is essential and if you hear any knocking or clonking noises from the suspension on a test drive, forget it. Likewise, if any warning lights on the dash stay on or any electrical components don't work properly (or at all), do not purchase.

Sorry!

Expert answer

Hi David,

OK, well the Ka wins in terms of road tax as you'll pay just €358 a year for that, as opposed to €710 for the 2.0-litre Citroen, but after that things start to get a bit more murky. In terms of fuel consumption, it does depend a lot on what kind of driving and mileage you do. If you're a low-mileage person, driving mostly in and around town, then the Ka, even though it uses an aged petrol engine, will probably work out more frugal to run than the Citroen. But if you're doing lots of long motorway miles, then the Citroen will win hands down in economy terms. I'd say you'll average around 40mpg in the Ka, probably 50mpg in the Citroen, depending on your driving style. Beware though; neither of these two cars has the greatest reliability reputation. The Citroen is prone to annoying electrical failures, while the Ka suffers from occasional total engine failure if not cared for.

Expert answer

Hi Caroline,

In the UK, the SRi is the sporty model in the Insignia range (without going for the full-vat VXR model) and is the third level up from base, ahead of the ES and Exclusiv. It should come with 17-inch alloys, lower and sportier suspension, a leather covered steering wheel, front foglights, sporty bucket seats and, depending on the engine, the brilliant 'Flexride' adaptive damping system.

Bluetooth is an option on the SRi - it only comes as standard when you trade up to the Tech Line model - but you can connect your iPod to any Insignia through the standard aux-in socket. You just need to buy the right cable. They cost around €15-20 from any good electrical retailer, though of course the iPod can't be controlled by the car when connected that way.

Expert answer

Hi Paul,

Generally speaking not too much trouble although it's worth bearing in mind that the 2006-on S-Class comes from a time when Mercedes-Benz was still suffering from problems in the electrical department. It's those electrics that are the most fragile point of any S-Class, especially the complicated Comand  infotainment and satnav system. Make sure everything works and budget some extra for problems in the future.

Expert answer

Hi Andrew,

Simple answer: Ford Focus 1.4. Not the quickest Focus ever (only 75hp) and perhaps not as classy as the rival Volkswagen Golf, but they're well made, reliable, exceedingly good to drive (that Jackie Stewart-tweaked suspension will teach you all you need to know about driving dynamics) and spacious enough to pack in all you need for Electric Picnic next year. That's what you young people do, right? Lots out there to choose from so be picky, find a good one in a nice colour and tart it up with some nice alloys. You won't go wrong.