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 Ramon,

How long’s that piece of string, there? It really depends on model, history and condition. The old R34 Skyline GT-R (the square one, the last one to actually be called Skyline) can go for as little as €20,000, or as much as €70-80,000, depending on what sort of state they’re in. Newer GT-R models (the ‘Darth Vader’ one…) have a similarly huge price range, from as little as €40,000 to close to €100,000 depending on the age and spec.

As for problems, well, they’re hugely strong, well-made and reliable, but the problem is that tuners love them, so you never know quite what you’re getting. Check for poorly-executed modifications, incorrect wheels and tyres, suspension damage, blown turbos and electronics sent haywire by a poor engine re-mapping. Shop around very, very carefully to avoid one that’s been thrashed beyond its limits, and I’d recommend getting in touch with the owners’ club (maybe even joining and attending a few events) before making the leap.

These are hugely specialist cars, and the more knowledge you can build up, the better.

Expert answer

Hi Tom,

Having discussed this with you via email we do understand your concerns and the run-flat tyres are by no means perfect. However, the beauty of them is that, in the puncture situation, you can continue to drive them - albeit at a lower speed. That means you can continue to work and sort out getting the tyre changed at your convenience.

Guidelines to tyre fitters state that the tyres should be changed if punctured, but there are situations when they can be repaired inexpensively instead.

Putting a spare wheel into the boot would mean virtually no usable space for anything else in there. We feel that's a little drastic!

Let us know what you decide to do and how you get on with the tyres so we can let other readers know.

Expert answer

Hi Danny,

Extra load tyres are not usually needed on regular cars - they're usually found on people carriers etc. However, some tyre sizes are only available in 'XL' format so they're found on cars where that part of the tyre's specification is not strictly required. They tend to have stiffer sidewalls and are hence often used on low profile tyres. A car manufacturer may also specify this as part of how they want the car to drive on the road.

If that doesn't clear up your query please do come back to us.

Expert answer

Hi Andrew,

You're in an enviable position. I'm going to go on the assumption that four-wheel drive is a must-have (though a rear-wheel drive car on winter tyres is as good as a 4x4 without in terms of stopping and changing direction as well as traction...) and given your comment on fuel we'll say it has to be diesel too. Don't worry, there's still fun to be had.

The 3.0 TDI V6 engine found in certain Audi A6s and A8s is a gem and partnered with quattro four-wheel drive seems made for you. The equivalent rear-wheel drive BMWs are a little more engaging, and the 330d/530d's engine is also fantastic, though we suspect you want four-wheel drive. Try a 535d out for size and you might change your mind and invest in winter tyres instead!

As much as we admire the X5 and Touareg, and they're good value on the used market at the minute, we can't help but feel they'll be just as difficult to sell on in a few years.

Another excellent alternative to the (quite common) Audi A6 is the allroad quattro version, based on the A6 Avant. Seems to tick all the boxes.

Let us know if we're on the right track here.

Expert answer

Hi Jim,

There's no doubt that the Range Rover Sport (like all big SUVs) are harder on their tyres and brakes than an average car. Parts aren't cheap either and fuel consumption, even on the diesel models, is relatively high - though again, normal for the class.

Early examples were the subject of three recalls concerning brakes, the transmission and rear seat belt buckle, but once the car you're looking at has had those things recitified there shouldn't be an issue. The Range Rover Sport has a below average reputation for reliability, but we know people with faultless examples as well, so perhaps some buyers have been unlucky. Issues seem to come mostly from the electrics and the suspension so check everything is in working order and best to have some form of warranty from the dealer.

If you need more detailed help please do get in touch.

Expert answer

Hi James,

It's not ideal to do this. It will change the outer circumference, which will alter your car's gearing and put the speedo out. It's not by a huge amount admittedly, but generally not recommended.

Hope that helps