Expert answer

Hi David,

In general this Fiesta (assuming it's the shape that was launched in 2002) was quite reliable. Our standard advice is to get as detailed a service history as possible and perhaps a Cartell.ie car history check too as it was imported from the UK.

A few specific things to look for on this model include water pump or power steering noises (they both fail) and damp carpets. These can all be remedied relatively cheaply, but best to get the seller to pay!

Hope that helps.

Expert answer

Hi Eoin,

Mechanically the Accord is very sound. Our standard mantra would be to get a full service history and have someone that knows cars go with you to inspect it, but we'd not be too worried about the Accord.

The only complaints owners tend to have is with interior build quality. Look out for wear and tear inside and make sure all the switches are working as you'd expect them to.

Let us know how you get on.

Expert answer

Hi Joseph,

Both those cars are decent family motors, but go into it with your eyes open as large aging SUVs are expensive to run, service and repair. For the most part the Discovery and XC90 are reliable, though there are reports of some early examples of this Land Rover with (costly) air suspension and electrical problems. It's definitely worth getting a thorough professional inspection as offered by Cartell.ie as this should highlight any issues with the car you're considering.

Some XC90s have suspension, transmission and injector problems too - all expensive to fix. Don't be put off by this though, as these issues do not affect all examples sold.

Hope that helps

Expert answer

Hi Craig,

Data is rarely available for specific models, but the Vectra has proven to be quite durable. The SRi specification with the 150hp engine is the pick of the line-up as well. However, we'd urge you to make sure the car has a full service history and check if it was the subject of a recall earlier in its life. The only major problem is with the suspension. If you test drive a car and it makes strange clonking noises then walk away.

Hope that helps.

Expert answer

Hi David,

In general that's a good car to drive, well-equipped and highly reliable and economical. We found the 1.6-diesel engine a little loud and the car itself to emit a lot of road noise on the motorway, but they're not bad enough to be deal-breakers.

It's still too new for there to be meaningful reliability data, but in general Mazdas have a good reliability record. Ensure that it has been serviced according to the schedule and take it for as long a drive as you can.

Best of luck

Expert answer

Hi Jimmy,

Basically: no; this car has so far proven to be very reliable. Some people don't get on with the DSG automatic, though there are aftermarket experts that'll recalibrate it for you. Also, brake wear can be high so check for that, tyre condition and that it has been properly serviced.

Enjoy!

Expert answer

Hi Paddy,

Ask the basics first: has this car been crashed? Has it been written off? Ask for a full service history. No harm asking how long they've had it. Ask if there are any known mechanical or electrical issues.

Never be afraid to ask what seems like an obvious question, as then nothing can be hidden or excused by "you never asked me about that" later on!

If you have a specific car in mind let us know and we may have other things to check.

Expert answer

Hi Alan,

This really is an exceptionally good car. The engine is powerful and really economical. It's smooth too, if not the quietest in the world. Just make sure it has been serviced properly and avoid the sports suspension if you can.

Come back to us if you need more detailed assistance.

Expert answer

Hi David,

That's a tricky one to answer accurately. It really depends on the dealer you bring the car to. There's undoubtedly a real lack of good second-hand cars so dealers do want such things, but the Impreza Diesel is, as you say, quite rare.

We reckon your expectations are fairly realistic, especially if you are happy to go into a dealer right now for a 2012-plate car. New car sales are slow at this time of year. Aim a little higher than that and try a few Opel dealers.

Let us know how you get on.

Expert answer

Hi Christopher,

First things first: go for automatic. The fuel economy won't be as good, but there are far more on the market and the manual version retains the foot-operated parking brake, which is madness. It should return about 35mpg.

In general it's a reliable car, though check all electrics and if the gearbox is jerky walk away. Also listen out for suspension knocks. Insist on a full service history or find a car that has it.

Hope that all helps.