Expert answer

Hi Ronan,

Currently, legislation on tyre pressure monitors works like this. In the US, the National Highway Traffic Safety Authority has required all new passenger cars to be fitted with tyre pressure monitors since 2007. In the EU, all new models of cars introduced since November 1st 2012 must have tyre pressure monitoring, while from November 1st 2014, every model of car on sale must be fitted. The current gap between the haves and have-nots is simply down to model cycles and replacement schedules.

Hope that's a bit clearer

Expert answer

Hi Pad,

There is an aftermarket spare wheel kit for the Rio, available from UK-based Kiapartsdirect.co.uk, but it only works as a full size spare if you've got the standard 15-inch steel wheels on your car. If you went for the option alloys, it only works as a space saver. Probably your best bet is simply to have a word with your nearest Kia dealer. They'll know what spare tyre options are available for your car.

Let us know how you get on

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I'm not sure I'd recommend a pickup for you, as, until the very recent arrivals of the Volkswagen Amarok and Ford Ranger, they were all a bit crude and dreadful. They're commercial vehicles, not family cars. That said, if you want something truly rugged, then what about a Land Rover Defender 130 with a crew cab? Iconic looks and unbeatable toughness, but they can be expensive to buy and run.

Actually my recommendation would be to track down an old-shape Kia Sportage. It's surprisingly good at going off-road, comfy and decent to drive on the road and circa €8,000 should pick you up a good one, potentially with still a bit of Kia's famous warranty left to run. Not as stylish as the current Spprtage it's true, but invest in a sturdy rubber liner for the boot and you should have the ideal log-carrying device.

Hope that helps

Expert answer

Hi Ronan,

Generally speaking, it’s best to get the car serviced beforehand, and let the garage know that it’s going in for its NCT. That way you’re dealing with all issues that are there, not just what the NCT picks up on. That said, with it being a Toyota, and you having serviced it every year already, you shouldn’t have any major issues I suspect.

Read our Eight top tips on how to prepare your car for its NCT feature

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Hi Declan,

That sounds like crazy low mileage for a 2008 car so have it verified at Cartell.ie.

If it checks out and the tyres have never been changed then theoretically you should change them, but in reality few people would...

Best of luck

Expert answer

Hi Paraic,

First and foremost is the running costs, but I guess they're on the same level as any large SUV-based commercial with an automatic gearbox - they're heavy on fuel and tyres, etc.

Other than that, while the Discovery 3 is proving to be more reliable than its predecessor, it's hardly the most dependable truck of its type. Some cars are perfect, but others have loads of issues, from the electrics to the air suspension and even to full engine failure.

Don't settle for anything less than a full service history and make sure you have the car checked out by someone that knows what they're looking at too.

Hope that helps

Expert answer

Hi Coreen,

That does sound odd, especially the need for four tyres, not just the front two. Did you measure their tread depth for yourself? 

Tyre wear rate depends on many variables, such as the way you drive, where you drive, what make of tyre it is and whether the wheel alignment is right. If all four tyres in your car really do need changing then I'd suggest that you change to different brand of tyre and also get the four-wheel alignment checked by the tyre fitters. 

Let us know how you get on

Expert answer

Hi Noel,

Runflats weren’t fitted as standard to the 2012 Audi A4, but you can fit them if you want to. Just make sure that your car is fitted with a tyre pressure monitor first, and make sure that whoever fits the tyres sets the monitor up properly. And make sure you buy from a good, recognised brand. Never skimp on tyres...

Expert answer

Hi Evan,

There's not a lot of difference between your car and the 2003 model so anything you've had go wrong with your own could happen to that - if there has been anything.

You should already be familiar with how hard the X5 is on its brakes, tyres and suspension so make sure they're all in good condition in any car you're looking at. There have been a few relatively minor engine issues too causing flat spots in the power delivery when accelerating so if you test drive a car and it has that best to walk away unless the seller agrees to fix it. Owners also report some problems with electrics so make sure you thoroughly check every button and switch in the car.

Hope that helps

Expert answer

Hi William,

We've confirmed with BMW that it should be 2.2 bar on the front and 2.3 bar at the rear, though these details should be on a label visible when you open the driver's door - even for the different tyre sizes.

Hope that helps