Expert answer

Hi Brian,

The second-gen C5's a pretty solidly built car actually, with only electrics and suspension causing regular problems. Check and make sure all the buttons and switches work properly, listen for any clonking noises from underneath and as long as it has a full service history, you should be OK.

Expert answer

Hi George,

Oh dear, where to begin? Warranty Direct describes the 9-5 as one of the most troublesome cars it's ever surveyed. Electrics are the most common problems, so make sure all the buttons work, then check the suspension for signs of wear, tear or incoming failure. Uneven tyre wear is an early sign of problems there.

Approach with caution basically.

Expert answer

Hi Ian,

If it's space you're looking for, go for the Superb, as it's massive inside. No reported electrical problems, but watch for high front tyre wear, paint peeling away from bumpers and flimsy fuel filler caps. There are some reports knocking around of clutches and flywheels failing, but these seem to be very isolated and not a recurrent problem. The Superb's a great car though - smooth and comfy, very spacious and one of the best cars on the market. Go for the Combi estate for even more boot space and nicer exterior styling (in our opinions!).

Expert answer

Hi Peter,

Electrical problems seem to be the big issue. Make sure that everything, absolutely everything works properly. Alarms can go on the fritz too, going off for no reason. Clutches, diesel particulate filters and boot water seals can also go, so keep an eye out for those.

Hope that helps

Expert answer

Hi Frank,

We reckon a motor or window regulator should sort that out for you.

Let us know how you get on.

Expert answer

Hi Morgan,

There's no doubt that the Land Cruiser will be the more reliable of the two. Toyota's quality has dipped in some areas of late, but the Land Cruiser is still something of a halo model for the whole range. There is a good reason why Land Cruisers are the vehicle of choice in sub-Saharan Africa and other harsh environments and that's because they're built tough. The current model lacks a little in terms of its cabin appointments (certainly, the Audi feels far plusher) and it does roll a lot through the corners (again, the Audi is much better to drive), but it's superbly comfy, very spacious and you'll be giving it to your grandkids in your will. 

Mind you, the Audi is no shabby player when it comes to reliability, and only really excessive front tyre wear (it's been known to get through a set in as little as 8,000km) and some electrical niggles (watch for powered tailgate problems) seem to count against it.

Our instinct would still be to go for the Toyota though. The Q7 has an unfortunate whiff of the trendy, socialite, school-run SUV about it whereas the Land Cruiser is more appealingly rugged.

Hope that helps

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,

That fault code indicates a wiring issue somewhere that may well be your problem, but would require a good auto electrician to sort out. 

However, before doing that, a known issue with that car causing similar problems is a faulty engine coolant temperature sensor that intermittently sends the wrong signal to the car's brain and causes all kinds of problems. It needs to be replaced and shouldn't cost the earth.

Expert answer

Hi Gerald,

It's possible that the alternator is 'overcharging' as it's called. Best to have the car checked over by an auto-electrician.

Let us know how you get on.