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Showing 101 - 110 results (out of a total of 183) found for "tyre" in Ask Us Anything

I need advice on a 2008-2009 Audi A4...

Hi,

Am looking at replacing my current car with an 08/09 Audi A4 diesel. I was looking for some advice as to things to watch out for on this type of car second hand. Also in terms of spec, is it worth holding out to get an S line model?

Thanks

Derry Lynch (Carrick On Shannon)

Oct 2013 Filed under: choosing used car

Expert answer

Hi Derry,

The S line spec on an A4 is nice, especially in styling terms, but it does also include lower, stiffer suspension, so if you value your comfort and refinement, maybe go for an SE instead. As for things to watch for, obviously with any car of that age you need to check pretty much everything very carefully, and don’t buy anything that doesn’t come with a full service history. Check that the MMI infotainment system is all working properly (it’s a major trouble spot), and check the carpets for damp spots as the air conditioning system often leaks. S line models often develop tracking issues, so check the front tyres for uneven wear, and a dull thud from the suspension when going over bumps means the anti-roll bar drop links need replacing, too.


What do you think of this BMW 1 Series?

I'm interested in this 2009 1 Series BMW on Carzone.ie. Are there any issues of note with this import?

here's the link

Thanks

Una O'Connor (Dublin)

Oct 2013 Filed under: choosing used car

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


What price for my 2010 Peugeot 3008?

What price should I get trading in a 2010 Peugeot 3008 1.6 HDi, 57,000km, SV model, high spec with head-up display, panoramic roof and new tyres?

Thanks

Joss Hier (Newport)

Aug 2013 Filed under: used car values

Expert answer

Hi Joss.

It will depend on history and condition, of course, but the ballpark is €7,500 to €8,500.


Which of these MPVs will give the best economy?

Hi, I asked you a question before, I was planning to buy a Nissan Qashqai, and just double checked the mpg with you. I'm so glad I did, just over 40mpg is a little low for my budget. So now I am looking at the following cars, and am hoping you could give me an idea again of the economy I can expect to get:

Citroen C4 Picasso 2007 1.6 HDi

Citroen Xsara Picasso 2008 1.6 HDi

Ford C-Max 2008 1.6 diesel

Renault Scenic 2008 1.5 diesel

Thanks in advance!

Dawn Higgins (Edenderry)

Aug 2013 Filed under: fuel economy and emissions

Expert answer

Hi Dawn,

Going on personal experience, I'd say that the C4 Picasso would be the most economical of the bunch. All of them should be able to get between 45-50mpg, and I'd say the C4 should just nudge above 50mpg. That said, you have to remember that what dictates fuel economy more than the car is your driving style. Practice driving with light throttle openings, anticipating further ahead and always using gentle control inputs and you should be able to get that economy figure improved. Also, take any excess weight out of the car, make sure the engine is serviced regularly and the oil changed often and get a good set of low-rolling resistance tyres, and keep them at the right pressure. It all helps.


Should I swap my Golf for a Toyota Aygo or Auris?

I'm driving a 2004 Volkswagen Golf Comfortline 1.4 petrol. I want to either get a new smaller car (e.g. Toyota Aygo petrol 1.0-litre) or a diesel Auris (e.g. 2008). Which would be cheaper to run as everything has got more expensive and my journeys not as long and frequent, plus I travel alone mostly. Which would be cheaper to run?

Breda Whelton (Leap)

Aug 2013 Filed under: choosing used car

Expert answer

Hi Breda,

Well, on the one hand, both the Aygo and the Auris are very well built and reliable so both will minimise any potential for expensive maintenance costs, and both are very frugal and economical, so either would be a fine choice. The Auris might be a bit more of a painless switch if you've been used to a Golf, as it's similar in size and comfort levels.

But, as you say that your journeys have decreased in length, switching cars may not actually save you any money. Changing cars is usually more expensive than maintaining and running an older car, and you need to sit down and do your sums very, very carefully. Work out what the actual cost of change is for you (the price of either car you are considering minus the trade-in value of your Golf, but including the cost of finance) and balance that against the cost of continuing to run and fuel your existing car, factoring in some cash for a good service and a new set of tyres (often the best way to improve your fuel economy).


Should I trade in my Suzuki for a Renault Fluence?

What trade-in price could I expect on a 2009 Suzuki SX4 saloon with 44,000km on the clock against a 2011 Renault Fluence? I expect to be driving a lot more mileage in the next few years.

Thank you.

David Loughran (Co Dublin)

Aug 2013 Filed under: choosing used car

Expert answer

Hi David,

To be honest, I'd be tempted to hang on to the SX4. Suzukis are generally astonishingly reliable, whereas with the best will in the world, Renaults are not. Even if your mileage is increasing, there are cheap and simple ways to improve your economy (a tune-up, low rolling resistance tyres, practice) so my best advice is to stick with what you've got. 

In the meantime, I'd say you're looking at a trade in value of around €8-9,000.


Skoda Superb vs. Octavia RS diesel?

Hi,

How would you compare, performance wise, the 2.0, 170hp Skoda Superb against the new Octavia RS?

Thanks

Philip Donegan (Ballina)

Aug 2013 Filed under: choosing new car

Expert answer

Hi Philip,

I'm assuming you're referring to TDI diesel versions of both. The Superb is a much larger and heavier car so it doesn't feel quite as rapid, but it's not at all disappointing. That engine has plenty of torque to make it feel usefully quick when you need it to. The Octavia RS, however, is undoubtedly more of a performance car, even in diesel guise. The Octavia feels sportier in general because of its RS interior bits and pieces, low profile tyres and sports suspension too. A review for you:

Skoda Octavia Combi RS TDI review


Are Renault Grand Espaces reliable cars?

Are Renault Grand Espaces reliable cars?

Kevin Barry (Cork)

Jul 2013 Filed under: reliability

Expert answer

Hi Kevin,

Not great I'm afraid. The current Espace, which dates back to 2003, is based on the same platform as the second generation Laguna and suffers the same problems. So expect lots of electrical issues (not great on a car with an all-digital dashboard) and the electric windows are especially fragile. Front tyre wear is also an issue, and we've heard reports of collapsing front suspension and a tendency for the exhaust system to give problems, especially with the catalytic convertor.


Is there a jack in a Citroen C4 Picasso?

Does a 2010 Citroen C4 Grand Picasso come with a jack?

Thank you.

Paula Briggs (Galway)

Jul 2013 Filed under: tyres

Expert answer

Hi Paula,

It depends on the model and equipment. Some C4 Picassos came with an air compressor and tyre sealant, and may not have a jack fitted as standard. Some models do have a space-spacer spare, though, and therefore will have a jack. It should be under the boot floor at the back.


What puncture repair solution best suits my BMW 520d?

I have switched to non run flats on my BMW 520d where there is no well in the boot to take a spare. What is my best option for get me home repair etc?

Sean Higgins (Sligo)

Jul 2013 Filed under: tyres

Expert answer

Hi Sean,

There are many squirt-and-inflate kits available in motor factors nationwide but they're only of use for very specific punctures: small intrusions like nails or screws that you've driven over. If it's an all-too-common pinch puncture, where a pothole has pushed the edge of the tyre off the wheel, they're useless. 

So, you've two options really. Either stash a space-saver wheel and tyre loose in the boot or invest in a decent roadside recovery package that will either be able to bring you a new tyre at the roadside or else carry you to somewhere you can get any issue fixed.

None of this is ideal, we realise.


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