Expert answer

Hi Val,

Generally it's a bad idea to fit mis-matching tyres across the same axle of a car (i.e. both front tyres should be the same and both rear tyres should be the same, but front and rear can be different brands etc. so long as the size is within manufacturer guidelines). In an ideal world all four tyres would be matching, but we realise that people need to save money.

On that note, we'd urge caution with regards to buying second-hand tyres. You can't possibly know their history and though they might be fine, it's still not a great idea.

Final point from us: a tyre is one of the most important parts of your car to maintain safety. Please don't scrimp on that.

Hope that's been of assistance.

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 Catherine,

That's an interesting one and the decision will probably come down to your personal preference. The Discovery certainly has a higher 'status' and it is a very good car, but a newer, highly specified Galaxy might be the logical choice. Both cars are relatively reliable and highly comfortable. The Galaxy has more space and probably more equipment, but that depends on the Discovery you're looking at.

One thing to be aware of is that the Discovery is likely to have higher running costs, from fuel, tyres, servicing and insurance to annual road tax.

Bear all that in mind and then take the Discovery for a good long test drive before you decide - and don't be tempted by 'too good to be true' prices either. Get a Cartell.ie history check to make sure there's nothing dodgy about the car you're considering.

Let us know how you get on.

Expert answer

Hi Brian,

Good timing! We have the GT86 on test this week. Here it is on the very twisty and very bumpy Dublin Mountain roads:

Review will be done in time, but I can confirm that it's even more impressive here than it was at the launch in Spain. Its small size and low weight are ideally suited to tight and twisty roads and though firm, the suspension deals with rough surfaces and bumps (even mid-corner) brilliantly. The none-too low profile tyres no doubt help with that.

On the open road it's hugely engaging and very fast. It feels weightless and while it goes where you point it there's a lot of movement underneath if you want it. Turn off traction control and it regularly slides too - though don't expect big drifts on the public road!

While it is lacking a little in low-down torque, it's only an issue for overtaking, as the car feels quick at all times, and is very quick if you use all the revs.

Away from driving for the fun of it, the GT86 is still brilliant. Some might not get it, and it's not quiet, but it even works well in town, where its small size, quick steering and relatively supple suspension mean it doesn't feel at all out of place.

Overall: a fabulous car. Really works on Irish roads. Really special.

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 Simon,

That is a lovely car, but you need to be prepared for the high running costs. Annual road tax alone is €1,683, while it's also heavy on fuel. No doubt it has low profile tyres as well, which are expensive to replace.

It seems to have very low mileage for the year, so make sure you get that verified. If it's right then it's still fairly fresh, but this generation of the 3 Series is expensive to maintain once the miles rack up.

Go into the deal with your eyes open and it could still be a great car for you.

Expert answer

Hi John,

I'm afraid this is not something unique to the Kia Rio. Loads of new cars now come with this sealant kit instead of a spare wheel. Many motoring journalists in Ireland (ourselves included) are actively against this, but as car makers hope to reduce weight and cost this is the way it's going. It also frees up boot space - not that that matters to the hapless motorist stranded in the middle of nowhere with a hole in their tyre...

Final note - it's often not up to the Irish distributor to make the decision to offer a car with a spare wheel, but it's worth checking with a dealer before you put down a deposit if it's an option - and negotiate not to pay for it.

Expert answer

Hi Pierce,

Overall it's proving to be a reliable car with no major mechanical issues. There are a few things to watch out for on used examples, including uneven front tyre wear - indicating that the alignment is out. Scan the dashboard for warning lights too, as the particulate filters clog if the car isn't used at higher speed very often - and there are isolated reports of issues with the electronic parking brake.

Finally, ensure all the seat belts are in good order - including the adjusters - and that the electric windows all work as you'd expect them to.

Hope that helps

Expert answer

Hi Keith,

Yes you can is the simple answer. However, for the speedometer to remain accurate you'll need to ensure that the overall diameter of the combined tyre and wheel remains the same. That means a 14-inch wheel will need a deeper profile tyre than you had on your 15-inch rim.

If you need more explanation come back to us and we'll talk you through it.

Expert answer

Hi Patrick,

It does indeed have full-time four-wheel drive. It's called xDrive and in normal use the power is split 68:32 rear to front but this can be varied to as much as 100% rear-wheel drive.

Larger cars like SUVs are always a little harder on tyres, but the X3 is not unusual in that regards. It has a good reputation for reliability with no known suspension problems.

Hope that helps.