Expert answer

Hi Martin,

For the size of car and its capability off-road the ML 270 CDI has acceptable economy, but you'll get a shock if you're moving over from a regular car, as it's thirsty by that measure. The early versions do not have a great reputation for reliability so make sure you get any car you're interested in checked out thoroughly - and insist on a full service history.

Hope that's of some help

Expert answer

Hi Dermot,

This doesn't appear to be very good value to us. Even though your Passat is probably only worth €1,000 or so to the dealer, the mileage of the Santa Fe is above average and the price is therefore quite optimistic - though clearly the service, tyres and NCT make it considerable more appealing.

Hope that helps

Expert answer

Hi Michellle,

You've not told us what version of the Zafira you're looking at, but you should know that the basic 1.6-litre petrol engine is a little gutless and the base spec cars a little spartan inside. However, the interior of the Zafira is cleverly designed and great for family use. Check the service history carefully, as cambelts require regular changes (where fitted). Other than that, make sure all the seats move as they should, that the spare wheel is underneath at the back and that there's no damp in the cabin.

I know several happy owners of these cars.

Expert answer

Hi Karl,

This is nothing to worry about. It's good practice on a lot of cars to replace the sump plug seal whenever the sump plug is opened to drain the oil. It prevents slow oil leaks.

I assume your mam wasn't charged very much for this? It's an inexpensive part and there's no extra work involved if the sump plug has already been taken out.

Expert answer

Hi Enda,

Despite the premium image, the Lexus IS isn't all that bad. Servicing rates are generally cheaper than other premium brands, which helps offset more regular service intervals. It's also a highly reliable model, so you should only be paying for routine maintenance. It's not too bad on fuel either considering.

Hope that helps

Expert answer

Hi Anne,

The Corolla Verso has proven to be mechanically sound so no issues there to worry about and as the model you're considering is at the end of that model's life it should have none of the teething bugs. It's worth checking that the airbags have been checked according to an early recall (if it affects this car) though as they had an issue.

This isn't especially high mileage for such a car, but have it checked mechanically by an expert.

Hope that helps.

Expert answer

Hi Vishwa,

We've not come across this issue for ourselves. Kia Ireland said the same thing and that you really should talk direct to its customer service department about this. The contact is Stuart Kirwan. We'll send you his contact details via email.

Hope you get a satisfactory reply.

Expert answer

Hi Philip,

That generation of Ford Mondeo was fitted with timing chains so no need to worry.

Hope that helps

Expert answer

Hi Alan,

You've not told us which trim level or engine this car has, so a rough estimate is somewhere between €2,000 and €3,000. Come back to us with more details and we'll try to be more precise.

Thanks

Expert answer

Hi Kieran,

Nice position to be in! We're a little puzzled at the shortlist, but each to their own. I'm sure you know that the Beetle won't be a patch on the Boxster in terms of driving thrills and the Porsche trumps the SLK on that front too.

However, if your priorities are ease of repair, etc. then the Beetle seems to be the obvious choice, as there are loads of Volkswagen dealers around and a new car won't need much doing to it anyway.

Saying that, the Mercedes and Porsche are quite reliable and you have a choice of Mercedes-Benz service centres. While there are no official Porsche service outlets in Cork that we know of, as resale value is not of importance to you I'd suggest you get the number of a recommended mechanic. They'll do just as good a job with a more personal service. Get in touch if you need help on that.

Personally, I'd have the Boxster. Though of course I can understand the lure of the new car. The SLK is a distant third place.

Let us know how you decide - and if you need anything else.