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Does the older BMW 3 Series have an oil leak issue?

Hi,

I am looking at buying a 2007 BMW 320i Coupé (Manual) or a 2007 BMW 320i SE Coupé (Automatic). Both have 44,000 miles on the clock. My old car, a 2002 BMW 318Ci eventually gave up due to the engine leaking oil constantly. A mechanic friend of mine has advised against buying another 3 Series as he says this oil problem is an ongoing fault with the model. I would be interested in knowing if such is the case?

Thanks,

Denis, Dublin

Denis Hartnett (Dublin)

Aug 2013 Filed under: fault

Expert answer

Hi Denis,

Yes, it seems to be a recurring problem on the 320i, but it may not be as serious as you think. If the source of the leak is the crank-case ventilator (CCV) then it can be a bit pricey to get fixed, and it's most definitely not a DIY job, as bits of the engine have to be removed and the whole assembly tilted to allow access.

If though, the leak is coming from the vacuum pump then it's most likely simply a failed o-ring seal on the pump, which can be relatively easily replaced. The obvious signs of a leak are a smell of burning oil in the cabin at tickover and, of course, visible oil leaks within the engine bay. A quick steam-clean of the engine will show up easily where any leaks are coming from.

Of course, if you've not comfortable tackling this sort of thing yourself make sure you bring the car to a professional.


What's the 2006 Kia Sportage SUV like?

Thinking of buying 2006 Kia Sportage EX manual 2-litre diesel. Have you any information on this SUV, good and bad points etc. and what performance and reliability is like please?

A Houston (Dublin)

Aug 2013 Filed under: choosing used car

Expert answer

Hi Alan,

Actually a really good car, that. Not as sophisticated as the later, more stylish Sportage, but fine to drive, more rugged than you’d think and actually surprisingly capable off-road. Fuel economy will be a bit steep compared to a more modern car (you’ll get around 35mpg on average) and the cabin is nothing to write home about, but it’s hugely reliable and, if it has a full Kia service history, should continue to be so.


Is an automatic Volkswagen Sharan thirsty?

Is the automatic Volkswagen Sharan harder to run than the standard model. In diesel?

Kevin Barron (Letterkenny)

Aug 2013 Filed under: fuel economy and emissions

Expert answer

Hi Kevin,

It depends. Are you talking about the older model of Sharan, the one that was shared with the old Ford Galaxy? If so, then it’s simply down to the fact that, at the time, automatic gearbox technology was not as advanced, and they tended to be more thirsty than an equivalent manual gearbox.

If it’s the newer model you’re talking about (the current-shape one, with sliding side doors) then it could be that the DSG automatic needs servicing. It requires more intensive care and attention than a manual gearbox, and if it’s left alone it can malfunction, which could affect economy.


Should I swap my BMW for a Yeti or Qashqai?

I have a 2008 BMW 520d Touring Auto with just 70k miles on it, which is in near perfect condition. I now really need a vehicle that has a higher seating position, making it easier to get in and out of (dodgy knees are the culprit I fear!). The space on offer in the BMW is probably more than I really need now. I'm thinking of a good spec used manual Nissan Qashqai 1.5 dCi or a Skoda Yeti 2.0 TDI. I really do not want to spend more than I can get for my BMW so 2009 or 2010 is probably as recent as I can go? Any thoughts on my choice and advice on asking price for the BMW?

Thanks.

Martin Smith (Galway)

Aug 2013 Filed under: choosing used car

Expert answer

Hi Martin,

Shame you have to get rid of the Beemer. What a fab car, especially the Touring. I reckon you should be looking at a value of around €19-€20k for it, which would make the world your oyster when it comes to trading in for a Yeti or Qashqai. A 2010 model for either should be easy to find, and you may even sneak into a 2011 car. Of the two, I'd go for the Yeti. I find them much more comfortable, and more spacious than a Qashqai, and better to drive too. Go for the 1.6 TDI if you can track one down - the 2.0 TDI is a bit unnecessary.

Let us know how you get on


What small automatic car would you recommend?

Which model and brand of automatic cars recommanded for new learner?

Gary Zheng (Dublin)

Aug 2013 Filed under: automatic

Expert answer

Hi Gary,

Automatic small cars are generally a bit hard to come by in Ireland, but I suggest a MINI One or First. Unlike some other small cars, the MINI's auto box is a sophisticated ZF unit and it's as much fun to drive as the manual. €5-7,000 picks you up a good one.


How do I get into my Merc SL's boot?!

I am unable to open the boot-lid on my 1992 Mercedes Benz 300 SL roadster. I have been opening manually on key but lock appears to be broken as key does not catch and runs almost freely from side to side. Any other way to open boot-lid?

Gearoid O'Driscoll (Bandon)

Jul 2013 Filed under: fault

Expert answer

Hi Gearoid,

We believe you have to remove the rear seats to access the boot and the back of the lock. Not a quick job...


How reliable are the 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLKs?

How reliable are the 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLKs with manual gearboxes?

Amanda Vogan (Cootehill)

Jul 2013 Filed under: reliability

Expert answer

Hi Amanda,

Pretty good, but all Mercedes models of that era suffered major problems with the electrical systems (especially the instrument displays) and some braking issues too. It's a complex car so perhaps get in touch with the Mercedes Club of Ireland to get a better handle and some friendly advice.


Any common issues with the 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe?

Any common issues with the 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe four-wheel drive or things to look out for when purchasing this vehicle? May go for 2005 or 2007, but want same type Santa Fe, manual, diesel.

Thanks

Igor MENSIK (DUBLIN)

Jul 2013 Filed under: reliability

Expert answer

Hi Igor,

There was a changeover of Santa Fe models in 2006, when the first seven-seat model was introduced. Go for that, not the older model which was pretty crude, if reliable. 

The 2006 on version is much better - smooth and comfy and with lots of space. Astonishingly, there seem to be no common reported problems. Hyundai builds its cars pretty tough and only the occasional wobble from a stereo seems to surface. An excellent choice.

Best of luck


Which of these E-Class Mercs do I go for?

Hi guys, if you had a choice of a 2009 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E 220 CDI automatic Avantgarde with 37,000 miles on the clock or the same model from 2010 with 87,000 miles on the clock for same money which would you choose? I could probably get a 2009 BMW 520d manual for the same money...

Jim Cotter (Limerick)

Jun 2013 Filed under: choosing used car

Expert answer

Hi Jim,

Well, the rule is never buy on mileage or even age, but only on condition and history. If the higher mileage car has been better cared for, and has a fully-stamped up service history, then it could well be just as good as the older but lower mileage one. Basically, take both for a thorough test drive and see which one 'feels younger.' If one has had a hard life, and the other an easy one, it should be pretty apparent which is the better purchase. 

Same goes for the 5 Series, but try not to get the less desirable manual. You may pay more for an auto now but it will be worth it come resale time.

Let us know how you get on


Which new car for 10,000km a year?

I have a BMW 520i (manual, petrol) since 1998 and it has served me well. I am considering changing to a new car and am thinking about the following: BMW 3 Series GT, Lexus IS or the Volvo V40. I have driven my wife's car, a 2011 Toyota Prius 1.8 and like the automatic. I am keen on having a rear camera and parking sensors, plus Bluetooth, leather upholstery, satnav, metallic paint, cruise control and climate control. I do about 10,000km per year.

Can you please advise what you would think might suit my needs.

Regards

Pat Rice

Patrick Rice (Greystones)

Jun 2013 Filed under: choosing new car

Expert answer

Hi Patrick,

With that kind of criteria, and if you’ve driven your wife’s Prius and liked it, I’m minded to recommend the Lexus. The hybrid systems are related (although of course the Lexus is considerably more powerful and sporty), it’s well-equipped (most of what you want is on the standard equipment list) and with mileage of 10,000km a year, it should be just about ideal. Plus, it’s unbreakably reliable.

Here are a few reviews that might interest you:

Lexus IS 300h review

BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo review

Volvo V40 review


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